A Fox Red Labrador Retriever, commonly known as a Red Lab, is a distinctive color variation of the popular Labrador breed. Despite the unique color, Fox Red Labs are not a separate breed; they are simply a deeper shade of the Yellow Labrador, with a beautiful coat resembling the color of a red fox. These dogs combine the classic traits of the Labrador Retriever—intelligence, loyalty, and playfulness—with a striking, eye-catching color.
Whether you’re drawn to their vibrant coat or their friendly personality, here’s everything you need to know about owning and caring for a Fox Red Labrador Retriever.
The Red Labrador at a Glance
| Red Lab Dog Quick Facts | Details |
| Breed Group | Sporting |
| Purpose | Hunting, companionship |
| Size | Medium-to-large |
| Height | 21.5 to 24.5 inches (55 to 62 cm) |
| Weight | 55 to 80 pounds (25 to 36 kg) |
| Coat | Short, dense double coat |
| Shedding | Heavy |
| Lifespan | 10 to 12 years |
| Temperament | Loyal, intelligent, friendly |
| Energy Level | High |
| Price | $800 to $1,500 |
History of the Fox Red Labrador
The Labrador Retriever breed originated in Newfoundland, Canada, and was later developed in England. While early Labradors were primarily black or white, yellow Labradors started appearing in the 1890s. Among these early Yellow Labs, many had a darker, reddish tint—similar to today’s Fox Red Labrador. Although this red coloring was once common, selective breeding for lighter yellow shades made Fox Red Labradors less common, turning them into a rare and sought-after variation.
Today, the Fox Red Labrador stands out not just for its color but for the charm and versatility that make Labradors so beloved worldwide.
What Makes a Red Lab? Genetics Explained
The distinctive red color in Fox Red Labradors comes from genetic variations that influence the shade of yellow in their coats. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Yellow Coat Base: All Yellow Labs, including Fox Reds, inherit two recessive “ee” alleles. This genetic combination blocks the black pigment, resulting in various shades of yellow.
- Modifiers for Red Shade: Fox Red Labs inherit specific modifiers that intensify the yellow, creating a dark, reddish tone. The color intensity is also influenced by the “c” allele, with variations ranging from cream to deep red.
While some argue that Fox Red Labs might not be purebred, reputable breeders and genetic research confirm that Fox Reds are 100% Labradors with no need for crossbreeding to achieve the color.
Appearance and Breed Standards
Fox Red Labradors look very similar to other Labs, except for their distinct red color. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Labradors can range in color from light cream to fox red, and the darker shade is still eligible for the show ring, provided the color is solid.
Fox Red Labs are known for their muscular, athletic builds, well-suited for a working dog. Males typically stand 22.5 to 24.5 inches tall, while females are slightly shorter at 21.5 to 23.5 inches. Their weight varies from 55 to 80 pounds, depending on gender and genetics.
Fun Fact:
In 2011, a Fox Red Lab named “Dancer” became the first of this color to be crowned champion in the United States, a notable milestone for the breed.
American vs. English Red Labs
There are two types of Labradors: American and English. While not official distinctions, they refer to differences in body structure and breeding purpose.
- American Red Labs: Known as field or working Labs, they are typically leaner and more athletic. These Labradors are bred for agility, speed, and endurance, making them excellent hunting companions.
- English Red Labs: Known as show or bench Labs, they are stockier and bred more for conformation and appearance. While English Labs are less likely to have Fox Red coats, some breeders are working to change this.
Most Fox Red Labradors you’ll find are of the American variety due to their popularity among hunters and field workers.
Personality and Temperament
Like other Labradors, Fox Red Labs are known for their friendly, affectionate nature. They’re incredibly loyal to their families and do well with children, other pets, and even strangers if socialized early.
Key Traits of Fox Red Labs:
- Loyal: They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being included in family activities.
- Intelligent: Fox Red Labs are quick learners, making training a rewarding experience. They excel in obedience, agility, and hunting sports.
- High-Energy: They have a strong work drive and require plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
While their color doesn’t affect their temperament, some owners find Fox Reds to be more vocal or protective—likely due to their close association with working lines.
How to Take Care of Your Fox Red Labrador Retriever
Caring for a Fox Red Labrador Retriever is similar to caring for any other Labrador, regardless of color. They require the same level of attention in training, exercise, and grooming. Creating good habits early on is key to raising a well-behaved dog.
Training and Behavior
Labradors, including Fox Red Labs, are known for their friendly and eager-to-please nature. However, they can also be prone to begging for food. It’s important to avoid feeding them table scraps or anything other than dog food to prevent unhealthy habits. Stick to their proper diet, and don’t be tempted to give in to those pleading eyes.
Labradors are highly social dogs and don’t like being bored or left alone for extended periods. If you’re considering adopting a Fox Red Lab, make sure you have the time and energy to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated.
Exercise Requirements
Fox Red Labs are active dogs with a love for water. As natural waterfowl hunters, they thrive in aquatic environments, and swimming is second nature to them. To keep them healthy and happy, aim for at least an hour of exercise each day. However, be cautious during their first two years, as overexertion can lead to joint issues.
Labradors are also eager to please, which can sometimes result in them pushing themselves too hard. Be mindful of their limits to prevent overexertion and injury.
Grooming Needs
Fox Red Labradors have a short, straight, and dense double coat that sheds heavily, particularly during shedding seasons. Regular brushing—about once a week—is sufficient to keep their coat healthy. During shedding seasons, a de-shedding tool can help remove excess undercoat. If you’re not concerned about shedding, a daily slicker brush should be enough.
Regular nail trimming is also important. Since Labradors are prone to ear infections, it’s a good idea to clean their ears after swimming.
Some sources suggest that Fox Red Labs may have a stronger odor than lighter-colored Labradors due to increased oil production. To manage this, make sure to dry them thoroughly after baths and avoid shampoos that strip their coat of natural oils. Harsh shampoos can stimulate the production of even more oil, making the smell worse.
Diet and Nutrition
Fox Red Labs can be prone to obesity, so it’s important to manage their diet carefully. Consider feeding them home-cooked meals or whole foods to ensure they’re getting balanced, nutritious meals. If you prefer to feed them kibble, choose a high-quality option that meets their dietary needs.
For large breed dogs, it’s essential to select kibble with the right balance of calcium and phosphorus to prevent hip dysplasia. A good-quality kibble should help them manage their weight and meet their caloric needs without overfeeding. Low-quality kibble may lack the necessary nutrients, leading to overeating.
By following these basic care guidelines, you can ensure that your Fox Red Labrador Retriever lives a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted life.
Health Concerns in Fox Red Labradors
Fox Red Labradors have similar health risks as other Labrador Retrievers. Common health issues include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: A genetic condition affecting joint development, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An eye disorder that can cause blindness. Regular eye screenings can help detect it early.
- Obesity: Labradors are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate other health issues.
- Exercise-Induced Collapse: Some Labs may experience weakness or collapse after intense exercise, a condition associated with a specific gene mutation.
The average lifespan of a Labrador Retriever is around 10 to 12 years. By providing regular vet check-ups and screenings, you can detect and manage these issues early, ensuring a long and healthy life for your Fox Red Lab.
For a more detailed look at common health issues in Labrador Retrievers, check out this helpful Labrador Lifespan guide.
How Much Do Red Lab Puppies Cost?
Fox Red Labs are in high demand, partly due to their rarity and beautiful coloring. Generally, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,500 for a Fox Red Labrador puppy from a reputable breeder. However, prices may vary based on the breeder’s reputation, location, and the puppy’s lineage.
Tips for Choosing a Breeder:
- Ensure the breeder provides health clearances for both parents, especially for hip, elbow, and eye health.
- Avoid breeders who charge excessively high prices solely based on color, as this may indicate a focus on aesthetics over health and temperament.
- The American Kennel Club lists reputable Labrador breeders, which can be a good starting point if you’re looking for a well-bred puppy.
Labrador Breeders
The American Kennel Club (AKC) website is a great resource for finding reputable Labrador breeders. While some breeders may focus on various coat colors, others may incorporate Fox Red Labradors into their breeding program without prioritizing color over health and temperament.
Some reputable breeders who breed Red Labradors include:
- Penara Labrador Retrievers (Collins, IA)
- Daisy Mountain Labs (Phoenix, AZ)
- Blackfork Labradors (Hodgen, OK)
Labrador Rescue Sites
If you’re open to adopting an older dog, a rescue can be a great option. While Labrador puppies are full of energy, older dogs often have a calmer demeanor, and adopting a rescue can give a Fox Red Labrador a second chance at a loving home.
While some older dogs may not have behavioral issues, many will need some retraining to adjust to their new environment. If you’re interested in adopting, consider reaching out to the following Labrador rescue organizations:
- Lab Rescue LRCP (Annandale, VA)
- Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida (Pompano Beach, FL)
- Golden Gate Labrador Retriever Rescue (San Francisco Bay Area, CA)
Is a Fox Red Lab Right for You?
Fox Red Labradors make excellent family pets and working dogs, blending the best qualities of the Labrador Retriever with a unique color. They are friendly, loyal, and intelligent, fitting well into active households. However, they do best with owners who can meet their high exercise needs and provide consistent training.
If you’re ready for the grooming and care that a Fox Red Lab requires and are excited to welcome a loving, playful, and intelligent dog into your home, this stunning Labrador variation may be the perfect choice for you.
For more detailed guidance on Labrador care, check out our articles on Best Dog Food for Labradors and Labrador Training Tips. Let us know if you have a Fox Red Lab or are considering one in the comments below!
As being of the older generation,myself and wife get the duties of looking after our sons fox red Labrador retriever,whilst he is at work.What I will say is,Rufus(the dogs name)is a joy to be around,patient,unconditional love,is a given,obedient,intelligent.To be honest,he is better sometimes than our grandchildren.A cuddle with Rufus works wonders,a big thank you to our son for getting him,he makes two older generation people very happy.
Great article and your right Labs are the best dogs no matter what color you get.
I came across your page during a search for a ‘red’ Labrador.
What an informative read, I am looking to purchase a Labrador to train as my assistance dog and the ‘red’ labs caught my eye.
I am glad that I came across your writing, I have also followed some of the links supplied. As I said very informative.
We have a 9 year old Red Lab named Cooper. We got him as a pup in July of 2013. He’s very protective, loves to talk & his internal clock is so spot on he knows when it’s time for a treat, his nighttime pills, naptime & bedtime. He’s on Apoquel for bad allergies. He has problem’s getting up but isn’t on any medicine for that yet. As for the agreeable part as long as we’re agreeable with him all is good in the house hold…lol. We’ll love him for as long as God sees fit & when it’s his time to go we know deep in our hearts we gave him the best years of his life & we’ll let him go to be at peace.