Last Updated on March 3, 2024 by Aftab Tariq
Red fox Lab is a unique variety of the yellow Labrador Retriever, distinguished by its dark red color. These dogs are known for their intelligence and affectionate nature. Initially bred as hunting companions, they possess abundant energy, speed, and enthusiasm.
When fully grown, Red Labs typically weigh around 65 pounds, stand approximately 22 inches tall, and have a red fox lab life expectancy of about 12 years.
In addition to discussing the traits, behaviors, and growth of Red fox Lab puppies, we will provide tips on training and finding a healthy puppy. We’ll also delve into the genetics behind their distinctive color, aiming to explain it in an engaging manner.
While Labradors traditionally come in three primary colors yellow, chocolate, and black there are also lighter variations such as champagne, silver lab, and charcoal. The Red Fox Lab Retriever, or fox red Labrador Retriever, is a special kind of yellow Lab with a darker coat.
Red Fox Lab Dog Breed History
Labrador Retrievers come in three main colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. This includes the special shade known as red fox. They all have similar beginnings.
Their ancestors were dogs called St. John’s dogs, which fishermen used to help them work in Newfoundland, a place in Canada. Labradors were later bred in England by rich people who liked hunting.
Originally, most Labradors were black, but there was always a possibility for red fox Labs. Chocolate and yellow Labradors were rarer, and sometimes, yellow or brown puppies were not kept and were even euthanized.
Nowadays, Labradors are mostly kept as pets, and yellow and chocolate ones are just as loved as black ones. This type of dog is popular all around the globe.
Is it a Fox Red Lab or a Red fox Lab?
The special type of Labrador called the “Red fox Lab” is also known as the “red fox Lab” or a “ruby Labrador“. Some people say “fox red Lab” or “red Lab fox“, but it’s all the same.
The reason for this confusion is that “fox red” isn’t officially recognized as a Labrador color. Instead, it’s considered a shade of yellow.
Even though we think red fox Labs are unique, official organizations like the AKC or KC just see them as another type of yellow Labrador. But lately, breeders have been picking darker red Labs more often because people prefer them as pets over the lighter yellow ones.
Comparison Between Red Fox English Lab and American Lab
Back in the 1970s, there was a shift in the color preference for yellow Labradors. People started liking the paler cream shades more, especially in the show and pet dog circles.
However, there was still a group of darker yellow or fox red Labs that stayed popular among hunters and sportsmen. This might be because a paler dog could be easily spotted by wildfowl, making it not so good for hunting.
Around the middle of the twentieth century in the UK, the Labrador breed split into two main types: the working type, often called American Labs, and the show type, known as English Labs.
Since red Labs were more favored by hunters, it’s mostly from the pool of working retrievers that we get the beautiful fox red Labrador Retrievers.
Types of Red American Labs
Red fox Labs, also known as American type Labs, may appear taller and more athletic compared to the lighter yellow Labs. They typically have a leaner body structure, with narrower heads and chests compared to show Labs.
Additionally, they tend to exhibit a stronger prey drive and may be slightly less outgoing and playful.
Red Fox Lab Dog Breed Temperament
Red fox Labs often possess the friendly and outgoing personality that Labs are known for. They are intelligent, sensitive, and cooperative, which makes them easy to train.
However, their sensitivity can sometimes lead to reactive behaviors, such as nervousness and fear of strangers. These traits may still show up even after proper socialization. Therefore, it’s crucial to be selective when choosing a breeder.
English Red Fox Lab
If you’re looking for a Red fox lab dog with a stocky body and blocky head like a typical English lab, you’ll likely need to find one with a show background or some show blood in their lineage. These characteristics are more common in show-bred Labs.
Red Fox Labs, however, are often found within the working retriever community. So, finding an English Red fox Labrador puppy might be a bit harder since they are more common among working lines.
Breeding Darker Red Fox Labrador Puppies
Many of the red fox Labs we see are darker than before because breeders are choosing ones with deeper coat colors to sell more puppies.
When a litter of yellow Labradors is born, there will be different shades of yellow. But when breeders focus only on selecting darker ones, it limits the variety of genes available for breeding.
This could mean that important factors like health, performance, and red fox Labrador temperament might not be as carefully considered.
Breeding puppies with a specific shade of yellow is tricky because of how inheritance works. It’s not just about picking the darkest ones; there are many factors involved.
Fox Red Lab Genetics Black & Brown
Genetics in dogs like the red fox lab mix can be tricky, but let’s break it down. Think of a Labrador as initially a black dog, as black is the standard color. This black coat is determined by a pair of genes known as the B genes.
Each dog gets one B gene from its mother and one from its father, forming a pair. For instance, a black Lab might have a pair like this: BB. These B genes can be big or little versions.
The little b gene carries the code for a brown coat instead of black. However, the big B gene is dominant and overrides the little b. So, little b only takes effect when two of them pair up like this: bb. In that case, you get a chocolate Lab.
Red Fox Lab Puppies have a Genetic Makeup that’s Similar to Yellow Labs
To make a red fox Lab, you need special genes called e genes. These e genes come in pairs, like ee.
When a dog has two little ee genes, they block the black and brown coat color genes. This makes the default coat color yellow.
But e genes can also be big (EE) or mixed (Ee). When this happens, the big E gene blocks the little e gene’s power, so the coat stays black or brown.
Red Fox Lab vs Yellow Coats
A red fox Lab is basically a type of yellow Lab, but with a different shade. All red Labs have special little e genes that turn off black and brown colors in their coat.
Now, things get a bit more complex. It’s about a pigment called pheomelanin, which gives the red color to the yellow lab’s coat. This pigment is controlled by two more sets of genes.
Red Fox Lab Genes
The A gene plays a big role in making the red color in Labradors. Then, there’s the C gene, which decides how strong that red color will be. Together, these genes create different shades of red, from light cream to deep fox red.
But it’s not as simple as just turning the red color on or off. There are more genes at play, especially ones that affect how dark certain parts of the coat are. For example, some Labradors have a darker shading, giving them a “saddle” pattern.
Keep in mind, you’ll only see these effects of the complex genes if the dog has those special little ee genes.
Red Fox Lab Breeders
When you’re thinking about getting a Red Fox Lab, it’s important to make sure it’s the right time for you. Then, you need to find a good breeder who breeds Labradors responsibly.
Look for a stud dog with a nice red color and check the recent matings. However, remember that color isn’t the most important thing for a good breeder. They usually don’t breed just for reds.
It’s hard for any breeder to guarantee the exact color of your puppy. Yellow litters often have a mix of shades, and puppies might change color as they grow.
For a healthy puppy, both parents should have good hip and elbow scores, clear eye tests, and a PRA clear certificate. Your vet can give you more information about tests Labs need.
Fox Red Lab Puppies
Red Fox Lab puppies are born with a darker color than yellow Labs. When they’re born, they already have a noticeable shade of red. As they grow, their color gets even darker.
Around three weeks old, they start to look more like a typical Labrador. You might notice lines on their face, which is common for red Labs.
By the time they’re 8 weeks old, they’ll have that beautiful fox red color. Even in the same litter, puppies can have different shades of red.
At 8 weeks old, your new red Lab puppy will need a lot of care. They’ll need regular meals, supervision, and lots of time spent with people and other animals to learn and grow. You can find helpful resources on this website to guide you through raising your puppy.
Red Fox Lab Dog Breed Exercise
It’s crucial for puppies to stay active, but they shouldn’t overexert themselves, especially when they’re young. Begin with short, structured exercise sessions and slowly increase the duration as they grow older. This helps keep them safe and supports their healthy development.
Red Fox Lab Price
Red Fox Lab price can vary from $800 to $2,500, depending on factors like lineage, health certifications, and breeder reputation. Red Fox Labs are becoming popular, and sometimes they’re more expensive than other colors. But, be careful about paying too much for one.
Some breeders might charge more for red puppies but skimp on important things like health checks. Good breeders usually sell puppies of all colors for the same price. It’s best to get a healthy puppy from a breeder with a good reputation.
Red Fox Lab is a Good Family Pet
The red fox Lab, just like all Labradors, makes a wonderful friend. They’re full of energy, so they’re happiest with people who like to stay active, especially families with older kids. Young kids might be a bit too rowdy for them, but an older dog from a rescue might fit right in.
Training your red fox Lab puppy well is super important. Once they’re grown up, plan on giving them one to two hours of exercise every day.
Labradors are famous for being great helpers, whether it’s hunting or assisting people with special needs. Most red fox Labs really enjoy being outside, exploring, and swimming. The red fox lab size is essential for those considering this breed as a pet.
Some people refer to red fox lab names such as Foxy, Ruby, Scarlett, etc., when discussing these beloved pets.
Conclusion
The Red Fox Lab, a darker variant of the yellow Labrador Retriever, is prized for its intelligence and affectionate nature. Originally bred as hunting companions, they are energetic and enthusiastic. Despite not being officially recognized as a distinct color, their popularity has grown.
With a friendly temperament, they make great family pets, but proper breeding and training are essential. Active and helpful, they thrive in outdoor environments, making them beloved companions for active families.
Find your ideal red fox lab for sale and welcome a new furry friend into your home. Find top-notch fox red Labrador breeders to discover your perfect canine companion. Find red fox lab puppies for sale under $500 and bring home your new furry friend.
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