Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have the opportunity to get either a chocolate or a yellow lab puppy from the same litter and I was wondering if anyone here knows whether there are any important differences between the two types other than appearance.

Someone mentioned that chocolate labs are smarter than yellows -- is that true?

My wife would love a yellow but I see the chocolate color less frequently so it would be interesting to own one based on that. Also, is the coat on a yellow lab easier or harder to maintain?

What about temperament? I'm sure they are both wonderful pups since they are both labs.

Thanks all,
Neil Estacio

>>I have the opportunity to get either a chocolate or a yellow lab puppy from the same litter and I was wondering if anyone here knows whether there are any important differences between the two types other than appearance.
>>
>>Someone mentioned that chocolate labs are smarter than yellows -- is that true?
>>
>>My wife would love a yellow but I see the chocolate color less frequently so it would be interesting to own one based on that. Also, is the coat on a yellow lab easier or harder to maintain?
>>
>>What about temperament? I'm sure they are both wonderful pups since they are both labs.
>>
>>Thanks all,
>>Neil Estacio>>>

Labradors are prone to a host of very serious genetic health problems. Finding a truly responsible breeder who screens all breedings dogs for these problems is far more important than the color of the dog. From a good breeder, temperament and health between colors could be equivalent. From someone breeding for the wrong reasons and without the proper precautions, any color could turn out to be a dog with serious, expensive, and heart-breaking problems.

If you trust the breeder, ask the breeder for a temperament evaluation of each of the puppies. If you don't trust the breeder that much--find one you can trust. At the very least, over the life of a dog, you're putting thousands of dollars at stake on the judgement of this breeder.
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Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series at www.veterinaryforum.com

My friend had a chocolate lab and it had many skin allergies. Apparently her Vet told her that it is common for chocolate labs to have more skin allergies than yellow labs. However, I would check this out further because I have only heard this once. I do know the Vet who made the statement and feel that she is a reliable source.
As far as intelligence, I think most dogs are as smart as their trainer. Just my opinion though!