Fox Red English Lab Breed Traits & Characteristics (Complete Guide)

Fox Red English Lab is a unique variant renowned in England for their striking fox-red hue, which sets it apart from its more commonly seen yellow shades, black coat color, and chocolate Lab counterparts. Known for their robust physicality, intelligence, and generosity, Fox Red English Labs are adored as family companions and working dogs.

Their rich basis of color, which varies from deep russet to a lighter gold, is a distinguishing trait that adds an element of allure to their persona. Despite their closest color resemblance to Fox, they are purebred Labradors with a double coat. Their color variation is solely down to genetics, specifically attributed to the ‘ee’ recessive gene.

Decoding Fox Red Labrador Retrievers ( Popular Dog Breeds )

Learn about the origins and history of fox red English Labs, how they differ from American Labs, their genetics and unique coat color, and trademark features such as size and weight.

Fox Red Labrador History & origins

The origins of the Fox Red English Labrador can be traced back to the early 19th century when they were primarily bred as hunting dogs in England. With a distinct dark red shade resulting from higher concentrations of pheomelanin pigment in their coat, these dogs stood out among other yellow-coat and brown-coat Labradors.

As time passed, Fox Red Labs played an important role in various fields, such as retrieving games during hunts, search and rescue missions, therapy, or guide dog services. They went from England across the Atlantic Ocean to North America, where they became integral members of many families thanks to their friendly nature and remarkable intelligence.

english labrador red — fox red english labrador

Red Fox English Lab Vs American Lab

The key difference between the Red Fox English Lab and the American Lab is their appearance, origin, and usage. While both breeds come under the umbrella of Labrador Retrievers, they have distinct physical traits that set them apart.

The Red Fox English Lab is known for its stunning dark red coat coloration due to higher levels of pheomelanin pigment compared to other shades of Labs. On the other hand, American Labs often exhibit a leaner physique with longer legs, making them agile companions suited for field hunting activities.

This breed has also been bred specifically for high-energy tasks such as retrieving in water or tracking game on land because they possess superior athleticism compared to their English counterparts, originally associated with show rings rather than sporting events.

red fox labrador pups — fox red labrador retriever

Red Fox Lab Genetics

The genetics of a fox’s red English lab plays a crucial role in determining its unique dark red shade, which sets it apart from the more common yellow Labrador Retrievers. This distinctive default color is caused by the pheomelanin pigment in their coat, which becomes more visible due to an increased presence of certain genes.

Several key factors contribute to creating this stunning red hue in Labrador Retrievers. Inheritance of genes from both parents results in varying shades among littermates, ranging from light yellows to deeper reds. Selective breeding practices have allowed breeders to enhance and maintain these vivid colors throughout generations – leading to the bold fox red Labs we know today.

In conclusion, understanding the genetics behind these captivating canine companions provides valuable insights into how complex traits can be inherited and preserved through thoughtful breeding endeavors.

Red Fox Lab Color Genetics Explained

The fox red Labrador Retriever’s distinct coat color is due to genetics. Specifically, the pigment that gives them their dark red hue is pheomelanin instead of the typical yellow eumelanin found in most yellow labs. Interestingly, not all fox red Labs have identical coats. Some can appear lighter or darker than others due to variations in their DNA.

While it may seem like an uncommon trait, the genetics behind the fox red Lab’s unique coloring is relatively straightforward and follow predictable inheritance patterns.

red english labrador — red fox labrador retriever

Size, Weight & Other Trademark Features

Fox Red English Labs are known for being a muscular and sturdy breed. Males stand between 22.5 to 24.5 inches at the shoulder, while females stand around 21.5 to 23.5 inches tall.

In addition to their size, other trademark features of the fox red Labrador Retriever include their large stocky heads, strong jaw, kind and expressive eyes, and floppy ears that hang close to them. These dogs have webbed feet that help them easily navigate water, making them ideal hunting companions or great swimmers for family outings at the lake or beach.

Yellow Vs. Red Fox Lab Coats

One of the main differences between yellow and red fox Labradors is their color coat. Yellow Labs come in various shades of yellow, ranging from light cream to dark gold. In contrast, Fox Red Labs has a unique dark red shade from the pheomelanin pigment in their coat.

Aside from the darker shade of coat color, there is no significant difference between the two coat types regarding temperament or health. Both yellow and red fox labs make excellent family pets due to their friendly and outgoing personalities.

labrador retriever red — english red labrador

fox red labrador temperament and care

The temperament of a fox red English Lab is similar to any other Labrador – friendly, outgoing, and eager to please; caring for these dogs includes regular exercise, proper nutrition, and grooming.

Red Fox Lab Temperament

The temperament of a fox-red Labrador Retriever is one of its most endearing qualities. These dogs are friendly, outgoing, and affectionate dog breeds. Their playful nature makes them great family dogs, especially with children.

Fox Red Labs also have an innate desire to please their owners, which makes them easy to train even for potty training. This breed is intelligent and obedient, making them excellent candidates for dog sports such as agility or obedience trials.

Their high energy level means they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy, so they’re best suited for active families who can provide lots of playtime and outdoor activities.

Tips To Help You Take Care Of A Fox Red Lab

Taking care of a fox red Lab requires some special attention. Here are some tips to help you take care of your furry friend:

Provide plenty of exercises: Fox Red Labs love to play and need plenty of space to run around. Ensure your pet gets enough exercise by taking them for regular walks and providing plenty of toys.
Feed them a healthy diet: A balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of your fox red Lab. Ensure their cups of food are high in protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Keep them clean: Regular grooming will keep your pet looking clean and healthy. Brush their coat regularly to help remove loose hair and prevent matting. Bathe them as needed, but avoid over-bathing, which can dry their skin.
Visit the vet regularly: Regular check-ups at the vet are essential for keeping your fox red Lab healthy. Vaccinations, routine blood work, dental cleanings, and flea/tick prevention should all be part of their regular healthcare regimen.
Socialize them early: Early socialization helps your fox red Lab become comfortable around people, other dogs, and new situations. Start socializing your puppy when they are old enough to interact with others.
Provide a safe environment: Fox Red Labs are curious and sometimes mischievous; it’s crucial to provide a safe environment they cannot escape from or cause harm to themselves while exploring or playing.
Train consistently: Consistent training is key for fox red Labs; they thrive on structure and consistency in their routines. Teach basic obedience commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “down,” etc., using positive reinforcement training methods.

Potential Health Issues And Pet Insurance

Caring for your fox red English Lab is crucial to ensure their overall health and happiness. Like any other dog breed, fox red Labs are prone to particular health concerns such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, allergies, and obesity.

If unexpected medical expenses arise, investing in pet insurance for your furry friend can also provide peace of mind. Some popular pet insurance providers include Nationwide, ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, and Trupanion.

Research different plans and consider deductibles, coverage limits, waiting periods, and exclusions before choosing the best one for you and your pup.

Breeding Program For Fox Red English Labs

Learn about breeding the perfect Fox Red English Labrador puppies, including how to breed for darker shades and understanding the genetics of this stunning color variation.

Breeding Darker Red Fox Lab Puppies

Breeding darker red fox lab puppies can be achieved by carefully selecting parents with dominant dark pigment genes. Choosing breeding pairs with a history of producing darker offspring is vital to increase the likelihood of achieving this desired trait.

Breeding darker red fox labs requires patience, knowledge, and specialized care for the mother and her litter. Puppies should receive proper nutrition, socialization, and veterinary attention throughout their development.

Red Fox Lab Genes

The genes determining this beautiful color of fox red Labs are fascinating. While all Labrador Retrievers have two copies of the same gene responsible for determining their coat color, the red fox Lab has a specific version of this gene that results in its distinctive coloring.

These dogs are even more interesting because their coat color can vary from light cream to dark red, depending on several factors. For instance, they may be darker if both parents carry a copy of the “ee” gene or if one or both parents carry other genes responsible for darker shades.

Fox Red Labrador Breeders

If you’re interested in bringing a fox red English Lab into your home, it’s important to research and finds a reputable breeder. Visit their facilities to see how they raise their puppies. Remember that purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder may be cheaper than getting one from an unscrupulous source.

red fox lab price

Red Fox Lab puppies can be more expensive than other alternative colors of Labrador Retrievers due to their rarity. Depending on the breeder and location, a red fox Lab puppy can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000. While it may seem tempting to go for a cheaper option, buying from an unethical breeder could result in health issues down the line.

Pros And Cons Of Owning A Fox Red English Lab

Pros

If you’re considering bringing a fox-red Labrador Retriever into your life, there are many benefits to owning one of these beautiful dogs. Here are some pros of owning a fox red Lab:

They are incredibly loyal and affectionate companions.
They have a great disposition and are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities.
These dogs make excellent family pets and are great with children.
They are high energy dogs and enjoy exercise, making them ideal for active families or individuals.
The intelligence of the fox red Lab makes training them relatively quick.
They excel at hunting, tracking, retrieving, and other activities that require athleticism and endurance.
Their stunningly beautiful dark red coat will turn heads wherever you go!
These dogs have minimal grooming requirements, making them low-maintenance pets.
Fox Red Labs can be trained as therapy or service animals to assist with various needs.
Red fox Labs have a good lifespan of 12 – 14 years.

Cons

While owning a fox red Lab can be an excellent addition to any family, there are still some cons to consider before committing. Here are some of the drawbacks of owning a fox-red Labrador Retriever:

High Energy Levels: Fox Red Labs are energetic dogs that love to play and require daily exercise and plenty of attention.
Destructive Behavior: If left alone for too long or not given enough stimulation, fox red Labs may become bored and start to act out by chewing furniture or digging holes in the yard.
Strong Hunting Instincts: While the hunting instincts of fox red Labs can benefit hunting enthusiasts, it can also be a drawback if you have other pets.
Shedding: Like other Labrador Retrievers, fox red Labs frequently shed, which means you must brush them regularly and vacuum your home often.
Health Concerns: Fox Red Labs are prone to health issues like hip dysplasia, ear infections, and obesity.

Homemade Dog Treats For Healthier Living

Making homemade dog treats can be a great way to ensure that your Fox Red English Lab is eating healthy and nutritious snacks. Many store-bought dog treats contain unhealthy additives, preservatives, and artificial colors or flavors that can undermine your pet’s health. Some healthy ingredients you might consider for homemade dog treats include

pumpkin puree (which is high in fiber and helps with digestion),
sweet potato (a good source of vitamins A and C),
coconut oil (great for a shiny coat),
peanut butter (a favorite among many dogs!),
oats (which are low in fat but high in fiber).

Finding And Training Fox Red English Labs

To find a fox red English Lab, check with reputable breeders or rescue organizations; when training your fox red Lab, use positive reinforcement and socialization techniques.

Where To Find: Fox Red Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale

You can take a few different routes if you want a fox-red Labrador puppy. One option is through a reputable breeder. Many breeders specialize in producing fox red Labs and will have litters available at certain times throughout the year. Some notable breeders are:-

Another option is to adopt one from an animal shelter or rescue organization. Though they may not have specific fox red puppies, there’s always a chance that one may come up for adoption, especially since Labradors are such popular dogs.

Regardless of where you get your puppy, ensure it comes with appropriate documentation like vaccination records and health clearances from both parents, if possible.

Training Your Fox Red Lab Puppies In Colors

Training your fox red Lab is essential to being a responsible dog owner. Here are some tips to help you train your furry friend:

Use positive reinforcement: Reward your Lab with treats, praise, and affection when they follow commands correctly.

Be consistent: Train your Lab the same way every time so that they can learn the commands properly.
Start with basic commands: Begin by teaching your fox red Lab basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” These commands will help establish trust between you and your dog.
Socialize your dog: Take your fox red Lab to meet other dogs and people so they become comfortable in different situations, preventing them from developing aggressive behavior later on.
Exercise regularly: A well-exercised dog is easier to train than one who needs more physical activity. Regular exercise also helps reduce their energy levels, making training sessions more manageable.
Use short training sessions: Keep training sessions short (around 10-15 minutes) to prevent boredom or frustration for you and your furry friend.
Don’t punish them: Punishing a dog for misbehaving will make them scared or confused instead of learning what is acceptable behavior.

By following these steps, you’ll have a well-trained fox red Labrador Retriever that is happy and eager to please!

FAQ Of Labs With Color From Fox

Are Red Fox Lab Puppies Genetically Yellow?

Yes, red fox Labrador puppies are genetically yellow. The distinctive color coat differs between a yellow lab and a red fox lab. Red fox Labs have a dark red shade of yellow color due to the pheomelanin pigment in their coat.

This pigment gives them their unique appearance but doesn’t change the underlying genetic makeup that makes them Labrador Retrievers. Therefore, they are still considered part of the same breed as other colored Labradors and recognized by the AKC as such.

Does AKC Recognize Fox Red Labs?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes fox red Labs as a shade variation of the yellow Labrador Retriever. Except for color, these dogs still meet all AKC standards for Labradors regarding temperament and physical characteristics.

They are registered as “yellow” Labs but with a notation that they have a darker shade of red in their coats. Despite this recognition, some breeders still consider them separate from traditional yellow Labs due to their unique coloring and genetics related to coat color inheritance.

Are Fox Red Labs Purebreds?

Yes, Fox Red Labs are purebred Labrador Retrievers. The only difference between traditional yellow and fox red labs is their color lines. Despite their slightly uncommon deeper coat color, they still adhere to all the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standards and can participate in AKC events and competitions.

Is Fox Red Labrador Retriever Related To Vizsla?

No, the Fox Red Labrador Retriever is not related to the Vizsla. While both breeds are sporting dogs and share similar physical traits, they have distinct differences in their origins and breeding histories.

The Vizsla originated in Hungary as a hunting dog for nobles, while the Lab was bred in Newfoundland as a retriever of waterfowl for fishermen. Additionally, the Vizsla has a reddish-gold coat and a leaner build compared to the stocky body and darker red coat of the Fox Red Lab.

Are Red Labs Rare?

While not as common as their yellow or black counterparts, fox red Labs are still a popular and sought-after breed. However, the rarity of their coat color in labs can vary depending on geographic location and breeding practices.

In some areas, finding a reputable breeder who specializes in fox red Labrador Retrievers may be more difficult than in others. They are considered a rarer color variant of the Labrador Retriever, and the AKC still recognizes them as yellow Labs.

What Is The Correct Spelling: Fox Red Lab, Red Fox Lab, Or Foxred Lab?

The correct spelling for the dark red shade of the Labrador Retriever is Fox Red Labrador or Fox Red English Lab. It is not spelled as “Red Fox Lab” or “Foxred Lab.” AKC still recognizes Fox Red Labs as Yellow Labs. This means they are considered part of the same breed but are alternative color dogs.

Do Fox Red Labrador Puppies Get Darker? Do They Keep The Red Color?

Yes, fox-red Labrador puppies can get darker as they age and mature. However, the intensity and darkness of their red coat depend on their genetics. Some may keep a deep, rich red color, while others may fade into a lighter shade. Breeding two fox red Labradors with strong dark pigmentation has a higher chance of producing darker offspring.

However, it is not guaranteed that all puppies in a litter will have the same shade or intensity of red as their parents. Whether they darken or lighten over time, fox red Labs are known for their gorgeous coats that make them stand out from other Labrador Retrievers.

Can Red Fox Labs Be Registered As A AKC Labrador?

Yes, Fox Red Labs can be registered with the AKC. Even though they are a color variant of the traditional yellow Labrador Retriever, they are still considered yellow AKC Labrador.

This means they can participate in all events and competitions like any other Lab. The only difference is their unique dark red shade, making them stand out from their counterparts.

Where Do Fox Red Labradors Originate From?

The origins of fox red Labradors can be traced back to the 19th century when they were first bred in England as hunting dogs. They were initially called “Yellow” labs, but breeders soon began focusing on a dark red shade of yellow known as fox red.

Author Profile

Shradha KabraLifetime dog Enthusiast

Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou.com, an authoritative resource for all things Labrador Retriever. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness