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The Labrador Retriever is the undisputed king of dog-friendly travel. No breed matches its combination of sociability, adaptability, and permanent good humor that makes it welcome everywhere. It greets every new environment with a wagging tail and contagious enthusiasm. Its only weakness is its legendary greediness, which demands constant vigilance, as a Labrador on holiday will always find something to steal from the picnic table.
Atouts en voyage
- Unmatched sociability, warmly welcomed in most establishments
- Remarkable adaptability to all environments and situations
- Excellent swimmer, perfect for waterside destinations
- Easy-going and cheerful character, puts everyone in a good mood
Defis a anticiper
- Excessive greediness, risk of ingesting inappropriate objects or food
- Heavy shedding twice a year, particularly troublesome in rentals
- Large size and weight limiting air cabin travel options
Profil voyage
Se deplacer avec votre Labrador
The Labrador pays the SNCF 7-euro flat rate. It is probably the breed best suited to train travel thanks to its Olympic calm. It lies at your feet and sleeps through the journey. Its friendliness reassures even the most fearful travelers around you.
The Labrador loves car rides and considers the trunk its territory. Equip it with a safety harness or use a trunk grid. Warning: lock the cooler as the Labrador is capable of opening it to help itself to sandwiches during a break.
The Labrador travels in the cargo hold in an IATA crate suited to its build (size XL). Airlines know this breed well and generally pose no problems. Accustom it to its crate several weeks before departure to reduce stress.
Sante en voyage
Risques specifiques
- Gastric torsion promoted by rapid eating and post-meal exertion
- Hip dysplasia aggravated by excess weight
- Frequent ear infections after repeated swimming
Precautions
Split meals into two daily servings and wait at least one hour after eating before any physical activity. Dry the ears after each swim. Weigh your Labrador regularly on holiday as greediness combined with extras quickly tips the scales.
Tolerance chaleur
Moderate tolerance. The Labrador has a dense, waterproof coat that insulates from cold but retains heat. Avoid sustained exertion above 27 degrees C. Offer it swims to cool down and keep it in the shade during the hottest hours.
Pharmacie de voyage
- Veterinary ear cleaner
- Broad-spectrum parasite treatments
- Collapsible slow-feeder bowl
- Adhesive veterinary bandages
Equipement indispensable
Slow-feeder bowl
The Labrador devours its food in seconds; this bowl slows intake and prevents gastric torsion
Dog life jacket
Even though the Labrador swims very well, a life jacket is recommended in the sea or white water for safety
Large microfiber towel
Essential after each swim to dry the Labrador, especially its ears
Hiking treat pouch
Treats are the best tool for managing a Labrador on walks; keep them always within reach
Reinforced IATA crate XL
For air travel, a 36 kg Labrador needs a sturdy and spacious model
Ou partir avec votre Labrador ?
The Labrador is the ideal companion for all destinations. It excels at the seaside or lakeside thanks to its love of water, but is equally comfortable on a restaurant terrace or on a mountain hike. Its sociability opens all doors.
Le saviez-vous ?
The Labrador Retriever has been the world's most popular breed for over 30 consecutive years. In France, it regularly ranks in the top 3 of LOF registrations.
The Labrador's coat is naturally waterproof thanks to a dense, oily undercoat. It can swim in water at 5 degrees C without suffering from the cold, making it the ideal partner for aquatic holidays.
A Labrador named Endal was voted 'the most decorated dog in the world.' He could use an ATM, do the shopping, and even place his owner in the recovery position.
Questions frequentes
Is the Labrador really the best dog for traveling?
The Labrador shares first place with the Golden Retriever. Its exceptional sociability, calm in transport, and adaptability make it a born traveler. The only point of vigilance is its greediness, which demands constant attention.
How many km can a Labrador hike per day?
A healthy adult Labrador in good physical condition can hike 15 to 25 km per day. Be careful about heat and weight: an overweight Labrador will tire faster and risk joint problems. Bring enough water.
Can the Labrador swim in the sea safely?
Yes, the Labrador is an excellent swimmer born for the water. Watch it in strong currents, however, and rinse it with fresh water after each swim. Dry its ears to prevent infections. Offer fresh drinking water so it does not drink seawater.
How do you stop a Labrador from begging at the restaurant?
Give it a stuffed Kong or chew bone as soon as you sit down. A well-trained Labrador can remain calm under the table throughout the meal. Choose a quiet corner and never give in to begging, or it will do it again every outing.
Can the Labrador handle mountain holidays in winter?
The Labrador loves snow and cold thanks to its dense, waterproof undercoat. It can accompany you snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Protect its paw pads from de-icing salt with a protective balm and rinse its paws on return.
