Did you know that the Labrador Retriever holds the distinct title of America’s Number One dog according to the American Kennel Club? 

That probably isn’t too surprising for many Lab owners but what may be startling, is the fact that they have been America’s Number One dog for 17 years straight.  They currently hold the title for having the longest run at number One. 

When I look at my two little pests, and yes that is said as a term of endearment, I often wonder what it is that makes a Labrador Retriever the most sought out breed in America.  I mean, it can’t because they are notorious garbage divers and counter surfers, that would be one of the reasons why you wouldn’t want a lab.  It also can’t be that their stomach is so large that they will eat just about anything.  I have heard horror stories about what Labrador Retrievers will put in their mouth and I have experienced it first hand with Indi, my little roadkill muncher, and Petey.

There are many times during a week when I am exasperated with my two.  They get into things and even though our kitten has been with us for a month, Indi still believes that it is a clever little wind up toy for chasing, she doesn’t chase the older cat though.  They can be the most annoying creatures on the face of the earth and some days I am ready to scream at some of the things they do.

 But…

 …and isn’t there always a but.  I couldn’t imagine life without them.  For every annoying thing that they do, there is something wonderful that offsets it.  Like when they lay at your feet, hopefully not farting, and look up at you with adoration.  Or when they follow the kids around, waiting for them to throw a stick or get into the mud with them.  The best times is when I see them lying on the floor with my son’s head resting on their back as he watches television or reads a book.  And that to me is why the Lab is America’s number one dog, because after all that energy is spent (hopefully in enjoyable ways) they are just big lovable lumps that warm both your feet and your heart.  

So I have to agree with America when it proclaims the Labrador Retriever as the Number One dog and celebrate another year of a life filled with slobbery kisses and energetic hikes.   

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