Silver Lab Complete Guide: Controversies, Color, Traits

Silver Lab is one of the rarest dog breeds in the canine world. This is due to their outgoing personalities, intelligence, and athleticism. They have a distinctive silver-grey-blue coat debated among breeders about its exact origin.

Some suggest it’s from a naturally occurring mutation or crossed genes from other breeds such as Weimaraner. The controversy surrounding Silver Labs involves them being recognized as purebred by AKC. They are part of the Labrador Retriever Club.

History & Silver Labrador Controversy

Labrador retrievers have their origin dating back to the 19th century in Canada. They were hardworking dogs. Labs are the 2nd most popular dog breed in the US after French Bulldog.

The lab community has two contrasting opinions regarding the silver lab. While one group believes they are purebred dogs like any other color, the other thinks they are a mixed breed of Weimaraner and a lab.

However, the silver lab is not considered an official color. While the commonality of silver labs is unclear, they still can be called labs. So what is a silver lab exactly? Let’s find out.

Theory 1: Are Silver Lab Puppies Purebred?

The first theory is that silver labs are purebred Labrador retrievers bred for their distinctive silver coat.

Evidence to support this point of view suggests that the genetic mutation that causes a Labrador to have a diluted or “silver” coloring was present in some Labradors before crossbreeding with other breeds, such as the Weimaraner.

This evidence comes from research showing that this dilute gene has existed in American and British Labs since at least the 1920s and likely earlier. These findings lead some experts to believe that any ‘silver’ dogs found today are descended from original Labradors with recessive genes passed down through generations.

Theory 2: The Silver Labrador Retriever Is Mixed

Many believe Silver Labs originated due to cross-breeding with other breeds in pursuit of the desirable silver coat color. This theory is further supported by its appearance, which sometimes can be quite similar to Weimaraners, a breed known for producing silver puppies when crossed with Labradors.

Most ethical breeders have discouraged this type of breeding practice from preserving the strength and integrity of the Labrador gene pool.

The potential health concerns associated with mixed breeding make it an issue for many prospective owners who fear these dogs may not live healthy lives due to genetic abnormalities passed down from multiple generations of unsuitable pairings.

The silver lab vs Weimaraner is a glaring debate. The coat color of a Weimaraner is distinctively silver, and they have a very similar appearance to that of a Labrador. Considering the rarity of their coat color, it is often claimed that they were bred with very close relatives to get the color. Breeders went for inbreeding and contaminated the gene pool for money.

Inbreeding or silver lab mix breeds could have many health issues. However, enough studies on silver dogs dismiss concerns today.

Where Did The Silver Labrador Retriever Come From?

The origin of Silver Lab has been a hotly debated topic for many years, with much attention focused on their coat color and potential inbreeding. To understand this breed, we must look at its history, genetic mutations, and acceptance by the AKC.

does akc recognize silver labs?

The AKC formally recognizes Silver Labs, dubbed ‘dilute labradors,‘ even though only three colors are officially recognized for the breed. Due to their non-traditional color, this is a controversial issue in the Labrador Retriever community.

Those opposed argue that silver Labradors are not purebred and accuse breeders of deliberately introducing foreign genes into pedigree Labs for financial gain. Others argue that silver Labradors retain all or nearly all qualities that qualify them as purebred Labrador Retrievers, including their temperament and physical characteristics.

For many years there has been strong opposition against allowing dilute gene carriers such as Silver Labradors to join AKC’s list of recognized breeds. This is because it goes against the standards set by established kennel clubs around America and globally when admitting foreign gene carriers dogs into an official genetically recognized registration pool.

Many worry this could cause problems for later generations due to unpredictable inherited health issues arising from recessive genetic amalgamations caused by cross-breeding.

Are Silver Labs Inbred?

Inbreeding intentionally pairs related individuals to establish or maintain desired traits within a breed. Silver Labs are no exception to this, with some breeders deliberately selecting lines of related animals for breeding and producing puppies with fewer health problems than those caused by cross-breeding.

Though breeders still debate the effects of inbreeding on silver Labradors, studies suggest that certain diseases are more common when dogs from the same lines are often bred together. For example, hip dysplasia has been found among silver Labradors descended from particular lineages with issues following inbreeding.

Though somewhat controversial due to its links to canine eugenics, breeds like silver labradors can also be subject to genetic diversity loss through selective breeding, which seeks out desirable genes while eliminating unfavorable ones.

Thus causing an overall decrease in new recessive gene possibilities present within successive generations that could lead to reduced fertility or other inherited problems in the future if left unchecked.

Breeders Only ‘In It For The Money

A potential grey area in the silver Labrador retriever controversy is that of breeders. With the increased demand and higher price tag associated with these rare dogs, there has been a surge in puppy mills and unethical breeding practices.

Breeding for profit often involves less focus on health benefits such as hip/elbow ratings, temperament testing, and DNA background information, as well as disregard for organizations like the AKC or CKC. Poorly bred puppies could mean an inferior quality dog that may be more prone to ear infections, joint problems, and skin allergies. 

Additionally, their lack of proper socialization further reduces their likelihood of being suitable family companions due to behavioral issues linked to poor training or confinement conditions. For prospective buyers hoping to get an ethical silver Lab pup, it’s best to research reputable breeders who are advocates for ethical breeding practices as outlined by national kennel clubs.

Silver Labrador Retriever: Breed Overview Guide

Silver Labradors are a type of Labrador Retriever with a striking silver-grey-blue coat with feathering. These dogs make wonderful family pets due to their sociability, loyalty, and energy – perfect for those who need an active companion!

Although some controversy surrounds Silver Labs, it doesn’t detract from how delightful these pups are. Learn more about the amazing qualities of Silver Labradors below!

How Big Can A Silver Labrador Retriever Get?

The average height of a silver Lab is 24.5 inches for males and between 22-24 inches for females. However, the height can vary. Regarding their weight, the variations are larger and will depend on whether they are American or Engish Labs.

A male silver lab generally weighs around 70 lbs and a female silver lab weighs around 55-60 lbs. However, American labs are slimmer and taller as they are bred for hunting. They are much lighter than the English labs. The silver lab size is akin to that of other colored labs.

how big do silver labs get?

Silver Labradors generally weigh 55 to 80 pounds, with males typically heavier than females. They are tall dogs, often standing around 24 – 25 inches high at the shoulder.

Silver Labs have a muscular and well-built body typical of athletic Labrador Retrievers. Their long tails can reach the ground in a ‘down’ position. Most silver lab pups have light blue eyes until they are 8 months old, which eventually turn yellow.

Silver labs have larger ears than traditional labs, and their muzzle is thinner and longer. Furthermore, they have thick and long otter tail that helps them steer through the water. The most distinguishing feature of this breed is its silver-colored coat, which can range from light yellowish-grey shades to dark steel grays or blues, depending on genetics.

As puppies, they usually start with a darker brown or charcoal shade that bleaches out as they grow into adulthood. Contrary to many people’s belief, this color has nothing to do with them being Labrador mixes. Rather, it comes from the same gene that causes diluted coloring in other breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers and Weimaraners — known as Dilute Gene Mutation (d).

Is A Silver Labrador Retriever Rare?

Silver Labrador Retrievers are amongst the rarest shades of Labradors. They have a hyperactive nature and strong sporting instinct, often making them favorites among dog enthusiasts.

However, their rarity has led to some controversy in the purebred labrador circles as there is disagreement about whether or not these labs are truly purebred. The dilute gene passed down from parent to offspring plays an important role in the existence of silver Labs.

Two standard lab colors, such as black and yellow, must pass on genes for diluted silver color for a silver coat variation to occur–silver being one example, along with champagne lab or charcoal, among others.

Does A Silver Lab Get Along With Kids?

Silver Labs are known for being loyal, loving, and friendly family dogs. They work hard to please their owners, making them a great companion for children of all ages. These Labradors have high energy levels, so they need plenty of activity and exercise but will happily spend time lounging around with their people.

Their temperament is generally gentle yet energetic, making them the perfect playmates for active kids who love running about and playing games. Silver Labs are highly trainable thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please, meaning that training sessions can be fun for both the dog and the humans involved.

Regarding adaptability, these Labradors easily fit into many family dynamics due to their size, gentleness, and good-natured nature.

Is A Silver Labrador A Good Family Dog?

Silver Labradors make great family dogs with all the same characteristics as a traditional Labrador. They are energetic and loyal. Silver Labs are naturally sociable. Their friendly and outgoing personalities make them ideal for households with always someone around to give affection, care, or attention.

When it comes to exercise, these pups have plenty of energy — a home equipped with plenty of indoor and outdoor space is beneficial in keeping them healthy physically and mentally (puzzles work, too!).

Regular trips outside will keep them active while also providing stimulation, making being inside much easier when needed. Being highly intelligent animals, silver labs can learn various tricks quickly if worked into routine activities like walks or playtime outside.

Silver Labrador Temperament

As puppies, they may initially be timid and take time to warm up to new people or surroundings. They learn quickly, though, responding well to positive reinforcement training methods. They could develop behavior problems due to pent-up energy or boredom if they don’t get enough activity. Silver labs are brilliant and easily trainable.

They are a breed that lives to please and serve their masters. Not only are they very obedient, but they are always ready to accompany others.

Exercise & Training: Silver Labrador Breed

Regarding exercise, the silver Labrador Retriever is an active and energetic breed that thrives on ample physical and mental stimulation. They need around 60 minutes of vigorous activity daily for optimal health and well-being.

To provide adequate exercise for your silver lab, you’ll want to combine structured exercises like walks, runs, and hikes with active playtime in fetch, frisbee, hide-and-seek, or other physical games. This breed can exhibit high energy levels at times, so you’ll want to be consistent with exercise routines as much as possible.

Walks should be one hour daily at a reasonable pace to get plenty of activity without tiring your dog out too quickly. Consider incorporating indoor games such as food-dispensing puzzles or “find it” games using toys or treats to help keep your Silver Labrabor mentally stimulated during colder months.

When training Silver Labradors, it’s key that you’re firm yet gentle and reward them with positive reinforcement. Be consistent in rewards for good behavior rather than relying too heavily on punishments & criticism. 

Lastly, try not to over-scold — use kindness instead! This breed learns best when rewards are given frequently. Reward each successful step taken towards learning the desired action or phrase.

Health Of Silver Purebred Labradors

Silver Labs are generally healthy and have an estimated 10-14 years lifespan. Some conditions may still affect a Silver Labrador’s overall well-being and should be monitored by a veterinarian throughout life. 

Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

It is a common health issue evident in many dog breeds later in their lives. It is a result of an abnormal formation in their hip and joints. The common symptoms include joint pains and arthritis.

Exercise-Induced Collapse

Excessive exercising or physical activities can result in them losing muscular control. Look for symptoms like collapsing or difficulty moving limbs while running.

Color Dilution Alopecia

Color dilution alopecia is common in dogs with the color dilution gene. It results from a bacterial infection within the follicles or causes dry skin and loss of hair. You can manage it with antibiotics.

Buying a puppy from a reputable breeder who provides clear health screening certificates for both parents is important to avoid such unexpected problems. When selecting their pup, instead of getting stuck into unethical practices by backyard breeders/puppy mills, look for specific behaviors or which could indicate physical trauma

Nutrition of Silver Labrador

Silver Labs have the same dietary requirements as other Labradors. They need plenty of high-quality kibbles to fulfill their nutritional needs. Once fully grown, a Silver Lab should consume 800 to 1,200 calories daily to stay healthy and active.

High-energy activities like retrieving require more energy and necessitate additional nutrition accordingly. Therefore, owners must ensure they’re feeding their Silver Lab puppies a diet that meets all their nutritional needs from puppyhood through adulthood.

High-quality dry food is essential for Silver Labs since it can give them much-needed nutrients like protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals in the right amounts. Water must be easily accessible, especially on hot days or after exercising heavily.

Coat Color Of Silver Lab & And Concept Of Dilute Gene

Silver Labs has a unique combination of grey hues and a dilute gene, which sets them apart from any other Labrador.

How does It work?

The dilute gene in silver labradors is responsible for their unique pale silvery coat color. Silver Labradors and standard black and brown Labradors can all carry one “d” or ‘dilute’ gene. The coat color of a lab depends on a set of genes. The B genes and E genes primarily influence the coat color of labs.

Regarding silver labs, the coat color is controlled by another gene, the D gene. It acts as a switch for silver labs. This gene affects pigment production in these dogs and makes them appear paler than usual. 

As a result, compared to regular Labrador colors like black, yellow, and chocolate, which come from two alleles – B and e, silver Labs require three pairs-BBEEdd, making it difficult to obtain consistently within a single litter.

Gene Combinations In A Silver Lab Puppy

Silver color Labradors result from a mutation in the melanophilin (MLPH) gene, which controls coat color dilution.  Two alleles involved with dilution must both be present for this mutation to occur. They are D (dominant full color) and d (recessive dilute color). The chocolate lab can have three combinations of the unique D gene.

• Both Big D genes will result in a chocolate lab.
• One Big D and one little D will also result in a chocolate lab
• Both little D genes will result in a silver lab

This explains why sometimes two same-colored Labs from one litter can exhibit distinctively different coat colors due to their different gene combinations inherited from their respective parents who might have been carriers.

The Big D gene overrides the little D; thus, the lab needs two little D genes to have dilute fur. There will be an effect if a little d gets another little d. Some dog breeds, like Weimaraners, have two little d genes. So for a chocolate lab to become a silver lab, they need the double little d. But how did this happen?

The question is at the core of the debate about the origin of a silver chocolate lab.

How Did The Dilute Gene Mix With Labs?

Many explanations highlight the appearance of the dilute gene in purebred.

• Mixed breeding
• Hidden genes
• Spontaneous mutation

#1 Mixed breeding

Many feel the first silver lab was a crossbreed. People who say no to silver labradors believe that dog breeders created this new color variation for their benefit. They did it for financial gain.

People believe that the cross-breeding between a Labrador Retriever and a Weimaraner resulted in the development of the silver lab. It is a prevalent theory but has recently lost some credibility as genetic tests still need to establish a link between the silver lab and Weimaraners.

#2 Spontaneous Gene Mutation

The dilute gene that causes the silver color variation in Labrador Retrievers is believed to have been introduced through a cross with a breed of dog that carries the gene. There is speculation that the gene was hidden or dormant in Labradors and spontaneously mutated into the dilute gene.

This type of spontaneous mutation occurs when an existing gene permanently changes its sequence resulting in a change of function and behavior within cells. In purebred dogs like Labrador Retrievers, reduced genetic variability can lead to a greater predisposition for certain hereditary diseases being passed down.

Many believe that the appearance of the dd dilution gene is improbable. But despite the doubts, it still cannot be ruled out completely.

#3 Hidden Genes

Hidden genes explain the occurrence of Silver Labradors that has been put forward. These genes can remain in a Labrador’s genetic makeup but may not necessarily express themselves within the dog or be carried over to its offspring.

This means these recessive traits, such as silver coloring, could stay hidden for multiple generations until they are expressed in a pup’s coat color and passed down through their offspring. The gene associated with coat color in Labradors is controlled by two alleles (the paired units of heredity) known as B and E or b and e, B being dominant while e is recessive.

It takes two copies of this recessive allele to cause any lab fur change. As mentioned earlier, one possible explanation for the appearance of silver labs is a rare gene responsible for diluted coloring, which leads to its change into a light gray shade – what scientists call “hypomelanism.”

Another factor oftentimes found in silver pups is a dilute gene that can suppress dark pigmentation, thus producing lighter shades.

Colors Can Also Be Dominant Or Recessive

Coat color inheritance in Labrador Retrievers is determined by two genes, one dominant (big B) causing black and the other recessive (small b) responsible for producing chocolate and yellow. A mutation in the melanophilin gene produces a d-d dilution of coat color with two alleles – D (dominant full color) and d (recessive).

The big B dominates over little b to create black labs. When both parents carry small b, their puppies are genetically coded to have chocolate or yellow coats. On the other hand, silver is not an accepted shade within Labrador Retriever breed standards as they do not carry a dd dilute gene like Weimaraners do.

Silver Labrador Vs Weimaraner

The Silver Lab is often mistaken for a Weimaraner due to its similar coloring, but the two are very different dogs. While they may share some physical characteristics, learning more about each breed is important to distinguish which one best suits you and your family.

How to tell the difference between a silver lab and a Weimaraner?

Labradors have a much broader muzzle with shorter ears and wider hind legs than the Weimaraner’s pointy nose and tall ears. Furthermore, Labradors have thick double coats of fur while the Weimaraner is single-coated in smooth-looking fur having longer hairs on its tail or ‘feathers.’

Both dogs share other similarities, such as their distinctive pale yellow eyes. Still, these differ too by overlaid eyelids found only for Silver Labs, unlike those seen for Weimaraners.

How to tell the difference between a silver lab and a chocolate lab?

• Color: Silver labs have a silver or champagne coat, while chocolate labs have a rich, dark chocolate coat.
• Eyes: Silver labs have brown or hazel eyes, while chocolate labs have brown eyes.
• Temperament: Silver labs are known for being friendly, outgoing, and easy to train. Chocolate labs are known for being gentle, affectionate, and loyal.

Does a Silver Lab Puppy Have Weimaraner In Them?

Traditionally you get black and yellow labs, or chocolate labs, but the silver lab results from mixed breeding that has sparked much controversy among many breeders. Silver labs often contain traces of other breeds, which account for their distinct fur color.

There is no consensus regarding this matter. Many breeders are against diluting the Labrador gene pool to mix with foreign breeds, such as Weimariners, citing potential health risks.

Is A Silver Labrador A Part Weimaraner?

No, a silver lab is not a Weimaraner. Although both are beautiful, loyal dog breeds, Silver Labradors and Weimaraners have distinct differences in appearance, history, character, and function.

The Silver Labrador Retriever hails directly from the traditional variety of the Labrador, which has been around since the 1880s.  The only difference between them is simply color. Some Labs have a lovely silvery sheen due to a gene called ‘dilute’ that can be activated when two Labradors containing it get together for breeding purposes.

Weimaraners, on the other hand, originated from Germany in the early 19th century, where these handsomely marked “gray ghosts” were utilized as hunting dogs. This explains why they tend to come with shorter tails. English Pointers often had theirs docked, too, to make it easier for hunters to keep track of their movements through dense coverts or underwater pursuits).

Weimaraners are energetic and athletic with a bold attitude yet a loyal disposition towards pursuing prey.

Silver Labrador Puppy: Tips Before Buying

Always opt for a reputable breeder who looks at the health problems of their dogs before breeding and doesn’t treat them as breeding machines.

Be diligent to avoid wrong or lousy breeding practices. Moreover, you should get puppies from breeders that tested the puppy’s parents for hip dysplasia. Check the health certificates and breeder’s pedigree before making the decision.

• Lab Rescue of Southern California: This rescue organization is located in Southern California and has operated for over 20 years.
• Second Chance Labrador Rescue: This rescue organization is located in the San Francisco Bay Area and has operated for over 15 years. They have a large number of silver labradors available for adoption
• Lab Rescue Of Great Richmond: This rescue organization is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States and has been in operation for over 20 years.
• Great Lakes Labrador Retriever Rescue: This rescue organization is located in the Great Lakes region of the United States and has been in operation for over 10 years.

Factors	Silver Lab Pros	Silver Lab Cons
Health & Fitness	On par with any other Labrador Retriever breed	Higher risk of your dog getting alopecia
Personality & Compatibility	Lovely and easily trainable; capable of becoming a great companion	A section of people might be rude to you about your lab
Popularity & Exclusivity	One of the most popular dog breeds; satisfaction of owning a rare dog	Unable to participate in the show ring
Cost & Breeder Accessibility	Great family pets	Cost is higher than traditional Labradors; finding responsible breeders can be difficult

How Much Does A Silver Lab Puppy Cost?

The cost of a silver lab can vary depending on the breeder’s reputation, location, and current demand. You should expect to pay between $ 1300 – $2,500 for a quality silver lab puppy with good genes and from experienced silver la breeders.

Other factors like delivery charges and pet insurance can couple up on this price. Ensure that the breeders can answer any questions about their puppies’ health history or lineage –

Is A Silver Labrador Overpriced Or Not?

There has been debate about whether or not they are being ‘overpriced.’ The consensus is that reputable breeders may charge more. This difference is due to the unique dilute gene, which produces silver highlights in Labrador Retrievers.

The average cost of a purebred Silver Labrador from established silver labrador breeders usually ranges from USD 1300 – USD 1500+. Mixed breeds are often higher priced than purebreds, but silver labs are overpriced.

Popular dog names for silver labs

Silver Labs are similar to other Labrador Retrievers, such as black and yellow labs or Chocolate Labs. Select a name that conveys the unique qualities of your pup and is easy to use. Here are some popular ideas for naming silver Labradors:

1. Silver: Simple but meaningful, Silver celebrates their unique coat color without being too obvious.
2. Gray: A unisex option that’s quite common and straightforward.
3. Sterling: An elegant, sophisticated choice for a special pup
4. Shadow: Short but charming, this alludes to your pup’s dark, silvery hue but with an air of mystery.
5. Dusky: A little more distinctive than “gray,” Dusky is an adjective and a noun, meaning ‘dimly lit’ or ‘dimness of light.’
6. Steel: Perfect if your puppy has particularly shiny fur like steel wool
7. Smokey: This ever-popular name captures the idea of smoky gray clouds billowing in the sky above
8. Tesla: The scientist Nikola Tesla is often credited with creating the invention we know today as the X-ray machine—which produces images that look surprisingly similar to those gorgeous silver Labs!
9. Stormy/Stormy Gray/Stormy Gray Skies/Storm Cloud: All interpretations of this weather-related pick are appropriate since they make an excellent metaphor for describing gray tones
10. Diamond / Diamond Dust: Suggesting something regal, these names reference diamonds reflecting light and transforming everything into beautiful shades of gray.

FAQ On silver labradors

Are Silver Labs 100% Lab?

DNA tests conducted by the American Kennel Club (AKC) show otherwise. The AKC has concluded that these dogs belong to the Labrador Retriever breed, with their dilution gene resulting from recessive dd genetics. Hence 100% purebred labrador.

Why Are Silver Lab Breeders Against Silver Labs?

Silver Labradors carry a recessive dd gene, considered inferior to a DD gene found in other Labrador Retrievers. This has resulted in dissatisfaction from those who try stringent breeding standards regarding color purity and conformation rules provided by kennel clubs. Silver Labs have been linked to Weimaraner heritage due to evidence suggesting intermixing between these breeds (cross-breeding).

are silver labs rare?

Silver Labs are often difficult to find since they are rare, making them a sought-after breed in the US. The price of silver Labs can also be higher than that of other Labradors.

Are Silver Labs Desirable?

Many people have debated. While many believe they are valuable due to their distinctive appearance, others cite potential health concerns and irresponsible breeding practices that may be associated with them.

Silver Labs possess a rare silvery-grey-blue coat color achieved through the spontaneous expression of hidden genes. Many litters are often sold out within days because fans find beauty in its unique hue, which stands apart from all others among the Labradors retriever family.

Can A Chocolate Lab Produce Silver Labrador Puppies If His Mom Is Silver?

The coat of the puppies produced by a chocolate lab and a silver lab will depend on genetics and whether the silver gene is dominant or recessive. 

If the little pup gets both little d diluted genes, he will have a silver coat color. While the chocolate lab will carry bbE-Dd, the silver lab mum will carry bbdd genes. So the combination of the genotypes will eventually decide the color of the pup.

Is A Weimaraner And Lab Mix A Good Dog?

The Weimaraner and Labrador Retriever mix, often known as a Weimador, is among the most popular breeds today because it combines the best of two beloved breeds.

What is a champagne labrador?

A champagne labrador is a rare variation of the Labrador Retriever breed with a light, champagne-colored coat. Champagne labs are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) but are becoming increasingly popular among dog enthusiasts.

Why do silver labs have blue eyes?

Silver labs have blue eyes because they carry the dilute gene. This gene is responsible for producing a lighter coat color and blue eyes.

How healthy are silver labs?

Silver labs are more prone to certain health conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. They are also more likely to develop allergies than other Labrador Retrievers.

Are silver labs hypoallergenic?

No, silver labs are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. This means that they can trigger allergies in people allergic to dogs.

How long do silver labs live?

The average lifespan of a Silver Lab is 10-12 years. However, some Silver Labs can live longer, up to 15 years.

What is a silver lab mixed with?

A Silver Lab is not mixed with any other breed. A recessive gene causes the silver color, so two yellow or chocolate Labs can produce a silver puppy.

Are silver labs good hunting dogs?

Silver Labs are not typically used as hunting dogs. They are more popular as family pets and working dogs. However, they can be trained to hunt and are good at retrieving game.