The Silver Lab is a gorgeous dog, with the classic looks of a Labrador with a shimmery silver twist! He is beautiful, has an awesome temperament, and is at the forefront of much debate. His history is mysterious; he is believed to be either a purebred Labrador or a Lab mix. Not only is the debate raising his presence, but it is also raising his popularity.
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Unfortunately, the Silver Lab has been caught in the firing line of much canine controversy, loathed by many but beloved by others. There are a few theories on how the silver lab got its coat, and many breeders and clubs are divided on this topic.
Let’s look at the facts as they stand today, and if you are considering getting a Silver Labrador, you will be armed with the information you need to decide whether this pup is for you or not. Or, if you are here simply because you love a bit of doggy drama, then read on!
History & Controversy
The Labrador Retriever’s popularity originates from the early 19th century in Newfoundland in Canada. He is a hunting dog and traditionally worked on water collecting ducks, fish, and many other small water creatures. He was, and still is, the fisherman’s favorite choice of canine colleague.
His ancestor was called the St. Johns Dog, and he was similar in appearance but black in color. Visiting English nobles sailed him back to Britain, refined the breed standard, and named him the Labrador Retriever. Ever since then he has become a firm family favorite across the world.
The Labrador community’s opinion of the Silver Labrador is split in two. There are those who believe that they are a purebred Labrador, just as any other color is, and there are those who believe that the Silver Labrador is a mixed breed of Labrador and a Weimaraner.
The unresolved debate first began when Kellogg’s Kennel advertised ‘rare gray Labradors’ for sale in the 1950s. This raised questions from many breeders and Labrador enthusiasts worldwide, as it would appear that this silver color suddenly came from nowhere. The same debate exists with other lab color variations, like the red fox lab
Despite the controversy, the Silver Lab is not recognized as an official color. They can still be registered as a Labrador with kennel clubs across the world. They can, however, be registered as a ‘Chocolate Labrador’ with the AKC.
It’s also possible to be registered as a ‘non-recognized color’ in the United Kingdom’s equivalent of the AKC. It is unclear exactly how common the Silver Labrador is. It’s clear that the surrounding controversy is definitely raising their profile.
Theory 1: The Silver Lab Is A Purebred Labrador
Purebred supporters commonly suggest that they have always been around. Silver Labradors were either recorded as non-recognized or immediately euthanized to prevent their silver genes from entering the Labrador gene pool. The breeders did not want to be accused of mixed breeding.
These silver dogs have a rare diluted Labrador gene, which they may have inherited. If so, one could surmise that the Silver Labrador is indeed a purebred Labrador.
Therefore, no one raised any questions until the 1950s when Kellogg’s Kennel was the first one brave enough to advertise their dogs as Silver Labradors publicly.
Supporters claim that the answer lies in the genetics of the breeds used to refine the Labrador as we know it today; the British used the St. John’s, a black dog, and the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
Since then, Silver Labradors have been bred to create more Silver Labradors, and as such, this rare color is becoming more available than it once was. The silver color originated in the UK but has gradually made its way to the US and has both bench and show lines.
Theory 2: The Silver Lab Is A Mixed Breed
Those who are against the notion of the Silver Lab being a purebred suggest that the only possible explanation lies with the Weimaraner’s genes being mixed into the gene pool. The Weimaraner is similar in appearance and size to a Labrador, except his coat is distinctively silver.
The two original Silver Labrador breeders are notably Crist Culo Kennels and Beaver Creek Labradors. Their litter can be traced back to the first litter advertised in 1950 by Kellogg’s Kennels. Because the silver color was so rare, it suggests that the dogs were bred with close relatives to achieve the color. Inbreeding is the term used to describe this practice, and it is known to produce a wealth of health problems.
Campaigners against the color say that breeders are contaminating the Labrador’s gene pool by introducing another breed. They also say that the inbreeding of Silver Labradors introduces a host of health problems. Breed purists argue that these are not purebreds and are indeed a mixed breed.
They also claim that Silver Lab breeders are simply ‘in it for the money.’ The typical argument is that these breeders do not care for the Labrador breed. They only want to breed as many Silver Labradors as possible with no regard for health.
Of course, other breeds should never be mixed and registered as purebred to protect breed lineage. This is an awful thing to do, and campaigners are right to object if this is true. However, recent studies suggest that there are now enough Silver Labs around to minimize inbreeding concerns. Reputable breeders do not participate in inbreeding, and to this day, there is no proof of wrongdoing.
Silver Labrador Color Genetics
The color of the Silver Labrador is often called a dilute version of the chocolate-colored Labrador. Often in genetic terms, the color variations are labeled as a dilute gene, which causes the ‘watered down’ color variation.
A set of genes controls all coat colors. Specifically, in standard Labradors, you will read that the B and E genes influence coat color for Black, Chocolate, and Yellow. However, the silver color is controlled by a different gene, the D gene. The D gene is present in all standard Labrador colors.
The gene acts as a switch, on for full color and off for diluted. To understand it a little more, all genes come in pairs, this pair being the big ‘D’ and little ‘d’. The big D produces a full-strength coat color, and the little d produces a dilute color.
The Silver Lab is a dilute chocolate color, so here are the possible gene pairings and color outcomes for the Chocolate Labrador:
- Chocolate Labrador: DD
- Chocolate Labrador: Dd
- Silver Labrador: dd
The big D is always dominant, and therefore, it always overrides the little d. So, for the Silver Lab to make an appearance, the pup needs two copies of the dilute gene in order to have dilute fur. So only the third gene combination bred would produce a Silver Lab.
In certain breeds, Weimaraners, for example, also have two little d genes. This is why the recent appearance of the double little d gene in Chocolate Labradors has enabled the Silver Labrador to appear, hence why the controversy commenced.
In The Ring
The genetics of this coloring of the breed can only be theorized and not proven. As a result, the Silver Lab is allowed to participate in AKC events. They can be registered as purebred Labradors, but they cannot compete in show events. If you are purchasing a puppy for the sole reason of showing the dog, you probably already know this fact, and it’s a non-issue.
Many breeders continue to challenge the AKC and champion this line to be able to compete. Others side with the AKC and are equally opposed to this pup ever competing in the ring.
Appearance
The Silver Labrador has the same appearance as any colored Labrador, except, of course, his color. Many describe his color as a diluted brown, whereas many others describe his color as a shimmery silver. A Silver Labrador can be different shades of his color, depending on his parents and genes. They also tend to have brown noses and light-yellow eyes. Before they are 8 months old, many pups will have light-blue eyes, which gradually turn into a pale yellow.
Some people, mainly those who believe he is bred with the Weimaraner, state that the Silver Lab looks more ‘hound’ like and that he gets these looks from his Weimaraner parent genealogy. Their ears are larger than a traditional Labrador, and their muzzle is longer and thinner. Some say that he doesn’t and simply looks like a traditional Labrador.
The male Silver Lab measures 22.5 to 24.5 inches in height. Females will measure slightly smaller at 21.5 to 23.5 inches. He is quite a hefty pup, and the male weighs 65 to 80 pounds. Females weigh 55 to 70 pounds. They are stocky yet well-proportioned dogs. Silver Labs have a cheerful and cheeky expression, with a strong muzzle and powerful neck. They also have an otter-like tail, which is long and thick, and they use this to steer themselves in the water.
Temperament
The Silver Lab is intelligent and trainable, and he simply lives to please and serve his master. Not only will he be the most obedient of pups (as long as you are consistent with his training and discipline), but he will always be at your feet and ready to lend a paw whenever he can! If you want a true companion, the Silver Labrador makes a great choice.
He is also a seriously sociable pooch who loves to join all the family games and splash in the pool. He will retrieve anything you throw and entertain you and your whole family for hours on end.
Not only does he serve his master, but he is loyal to everyone in the pack and will happily snuggle up with anyone in the room. Additionally, if socialized from a young age, he is also fond of small children and other animals. However, this sociability does have a slight downside in that he is known to suffer from separation anxiety.
He is a happy-go-lucky canine, and the AKC describes him as ‘friendly, active and outgoing.’ His temperament is one of the main reasons he is the most popular dog breed and has been for over 23 years!
Exercise & Training
Being a working dog, the Silver Labrador is a high-energy dog. Silver Labs need around 60 minutes of exercise each day. This does not mean, however, that an hour walk per day will be adequate. As with any Labrador, they require intense exercise to burn up extra energy.
Silver Labradors will need fast-paced and interactive activities. Training your lab to walk or run with a harness is recommended, as they make excellent jogging partners. Other activities they enjoy include playing fetch, taking part in agility courses, and interactive games. Being the original fisherman’s friend, they still have an affinity for water, so swimming is another form of exercise they love!
The Silver Labrador is one of the most intelligent canines on the planet. This is one of the main reasons why Labradors are commonly used in working fields. You’ll often see them participating in search and rescue jobs, drug detection, and guide dogs for the blind.
When you combine their intelligence with their love to please their master, they will forever spend every minute trying to impress you with their skills. This is as long as you are consistent with their training. Make sure you have plenty of toys to keep your pup entertained.
Health & Nutrition
The Silver Labrador is a generally healthy dog, and he lives, on average, between 10 and 12 years. So, if you are thinking about welcoming a Silver Labrador into your life, then you need to be aware of the following health issues:
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
This is a common health issue in later life for most dog breeds. An abnormal formation causes it in the hip and elbow joints, and symptoms can eventually include joint pain and crippling arthritis.
Exercise-Induced Collapse
The pup can suffer a loss of muscular control following a period of excessive exercise. You can do nothing to prevent this except look for symptoms such as collapsing and being unable to move or dragging their limbs behind them while running. In very rare cases, the dog can die immediately, but most cases last up to 25 minutes.
Color Dilution Alopecia
This is found in dogs that have the color dilution gene dd, as described above. It’s not found in all dd dogs, and it does not always lead to this specific alopecia. It is caused by a bacterial infection in the hair follicles and causes dry skin and hair loss. It shows itself between 6 months and three years, and antibiotics can help manage it.
Generally, the Silver Labrador will eat around 3 cups of food, and it should be a large breed formula made for Labs. He will also eat anything and everything else that he can get his paws on! It is imperative to monitor his food and treat consumption with any Labrador to avoid obesity and other weight-related health issues. Give him treats in moderation and try not to feed him high-calorie or human foods such as cheese. You might be his best friend at the time, but he won’t thank you for it when his joints can’t take the extra weight.
Could Pet Insurance Help?
If your pet insurance covers exam fees and your dog needs to be examined, there is a good chance your policy will reimburse those costs based on your policy details. However, if you are a new customer, vet expenses will not be covered until after your policy’s defined waiting periods, so signing up once you have an existing health concern is not going to help this time. Pre-existing conditions are not covered by any current pet insurance plans.
This is why it is a great idea to sign up for a pet insurance policy when your pet is young and relatively healthy to ensure you will be covered when you need it most.
Grooming
To keep the Silver Labrador warm against the cold elements, he has a double coat. His undercoat is thick, dense, and water and ice resistant. This enables them to stay in the water for so long without getting ill, and his outer coat is short and coarse.
Labradors are moderate to heavy shedders. Their coats will need brushing once or twice a week. He will require a bath every six weeks to keep him smelling fresh from all that mud and lake water that he loves so much!
Breeders and Puppy Prices
The average cost of a Labrador Retriever puppy ranges from $1,000 and up from a reputable breeder. Because the Silver Labrador Retriever is rare, you can expect to pay more as there are fewer available to meet demand. From looking at reputable breeder websites, the cost is, on average, between $1,250 and $1,500.
Buying your pup from a reputable breeder will not only ensure that you are paying the right price for the pup, but it will also ensure that you are getting a healthy pooch that has had the best start to life.
Should I Get a Silver Labrador?
Do you want him to partake in registered hunting and obedience trials? As mentioned earlier, the Silver Labrador is not recognized as a ‘Silver Labrador’ by official kennel clubs; the silver tick box does not exist on the registration form.
As a result of having to register him as a Chocolate or a non-recognized color, your pup will, unfortunately, be viewed as less desirable than all the other competing Labradors. Many competitors suggest that their Silver Labradors suffer from color prejudice within the competition. If entering your pup into events is important to you, then you should be prepared for this. If it’s a deciding factor, consider another color Labrador.
Once you’ve answered the competition question, then there are some other things to note. Firstly, many anti-silver campaigners suggest that inbreeding has caused serious health issues. However, there is no evidence for this claim. Until there is, don’t let this put you off. He has the same health issues as any other standard Labrador. There is also an added potential alopecia issue. The silver gene pool is now big enough that reputable breeders will not breed siblings or close relatives.
Secondly, many anti-silver campaigners also suggest that Silver Labrador breeders are simply in it for the money. Again, this is not true. If you buy your puppy from a reputable breeder registered with the AKC, then his parents must be health tested. This way, you know that your puppy has undergone the same health testing as, let’s say, a yellow AKC registered pup.
Final Thoughts
Whatever side of the fence you sit on, and whether you believe that the Silver Labrador is a purebred or a mixed breed, two things are very clear. Firstly, the history of their coat color will probably always remain a mystery. Secondly, and more importantly, whatever their genetics, Silver Labradors are loveable pups who make awesome family pets. As long as he is healthy and you are ready to commit to having a dog, then you will both have a long, happy life together!
I have a 12 month old silver Lab. For the past 8 months, one of his playmates at the dog park has been a purebred Weimaraner, who is about 3 months older than Jasper ( my lab). As they have grown into their bodies, the only similarities has been the color. The Weimaraner has grown into a taller, thinner, more stream lined dog who looks like he is built for speed. His weight is about 65 pounds. Jasper on the other hand is shorter, stockier, wider weighing 81 pounds with a thicker head and neck. When they were younger, people mistook the two of them of being related. Now everyone can pick Jasper out as a Lab and are just mystified as to the color. Jasper is our third Lab and other than color, looks exactly like our previous Labs. He is definitely a pure bred.
Where can a silver Labrador be purchased in the Dayton- /Cincinnati area?
Wouldn’t a DNA test show if there is any Weimareiner in a Silver Lab?
I recently loss my 14 yr 8mos chocolate lab in Nov.2022 still mourning his passing ,I love the silver lab n this is my next dog
I recently had to say “goodbye” to my wonderful black lab. I am a senior with mobility issues and because I would not want my dog to be orphaned if I died, I am now dogless. Still… I often look at labrador websites and dog articles every day. I am biased towards the black labs because I believe they are closest to their wild ancestors and genetically stronger than the other colours that were created for a demand by people who have a particular desire to match their furniture or personality. NUDNIK had atypical ears which his breeder told me appear in about 15% of puppies. I think that the silvers ae beautiful but I still gravitate toward the blacks. That’s just me, I guess.
I have had yellows,blacks and chocolates, now I own 3 silvers
And will not go back to the other colors, u get tons of compliments on the silvers and my personal opinion, they seem to pick up on training and other things way faster than the others, I have had labs over 45 years, they have been used for hunting and company on long trips, so if you don’t mind spending a little more you should be please with a silver
Cant they just do a dna test to see if they are purebreed or not? I know this can be done on horses to determine their lineage if there is some disputre around it.
Ida there have been literally thousands of AKC-pedigreed silver labs DNA tested and to date there has never been a single one found to be any less than 100% pure Labrador Retriever. The breed history also indicates they are purebred, as the dilute gene was known to be in the breed in the late 1800s, around the same time the chocolate gene and the yellow gene were first known to be in the breed.
There is a dilute gene test available it cost £29 this will confirm whether or not a dog carries the dilute gene. The Weimaraner is one of the few breeds that carries this gene.
Very interesting . I would love to have a silver Labrador.
Thanx for information so appreciated. Smokey Silver Lab rescue is with us 1yr, 61/2. So lovable. We plan additional training n reducing kibble to 11/2 X 2. We feed small wet with it. Your thoughts. Welcome all information. Dolores n Ray Stokes Whitehall NY
We recently expanded our family with a chocolate lab. Best choice every and this article was so informative and spot on for anyone interested in adding a lab to their own family.