The Life of a Lab

Starting, as this book does, with the all too believable notion that the Labrador Retriever is perhaps the single most agreeable and people-oriented creature this side of Paradise, the author shows the reader how and why to care for God's most perfect earthly creature, the Labrador Retriever! He entices us into the earthly domain of the heavenly Labs with a torrent of photos that show them in all their splendor and glory, and reading this book is such an utter enjoyment it is easy to overlook the valuable information it also provides. For example, by showing us the degree to which the breed represents a witch's brew of intelligence, honesty and loyalty to its human companions, the author illustrates why the Labrador has become the single most popular breed of dog in the world today. Labradors are sturdy creatures indeed, bred for sporting use along the quicksilver shores of Newfoundland, where the water temperatures and sea conditions require a healthy dollop of strength and endurance, and those are qualities these dogs have in spades. For any of us that have seen them at work or play in the fields and in the water, their unique combination of physical attributes and obvious intelligence makes them the ideal human companion. I should know; I live with four of them! The proof of their adaptability to almost any condition and their loyalty, intelligence, and unparalleled work ethic is demonstrated by the wide use of them as guide dogs and as adjunct partners for the physically handicapped. Stories of Labradors crawling out onto the ice to save their masters are legendary, as are the tales of them rescuing children from fires or from underneath rubble. Never has there been a dog superior to them. The author has testifed as to the qualities and abilities of the dog, and one walks away from a reading of the book much better informed as to the all of the many qualities and capabilities of the breed, which seems to represent an astonishing list of useful and worthwhile attributes. We also get quite critical information as to what to look for when choosing a lab, and how to analyze the quality of the puppy you see before you. The author offers information regarding genetics, feeding, health care, and inherited dispositions, as well as some sage advice as to how to ensure your puppy becomes the grown up Labrador companion you will come to view as another family member. This is a great book, and one I heartily recommend! Enjoy!

As a lab owner, I was eager to see what this book had to offer. It is superb. The photos are gorgeous, perfectly showing every aspect of these wonderful animals. The text was just as good, perfectly complementing the photos. This is the best book I've seen on the breed and the most beautiful. A must have for any lab or animal lover.

I picked up this book while waiting in my doctor's office and immediately ordered a copy for myself. Denver Bryan is an outstanding photographer and depicts this beautiful breed in all possible scenarios, beginning from puppyhood to old age. I was smiling, laughing, and crying, all at the same time. The text, by E. Donnall Thomas Jr., describes these wonderful dogs, their antics, personalities, and the unconditional love they show for their owners. This one's a keeper!!

I've spent hours looking at pictures made by Denver Bryan and reading the words of E. Donnall Thomas Jr. ... This book and "Labs Afield" are 2 of the best photography books on Labradors I have found so far ... What can I say ... I don't like hunting but I think Labradors are wonderful ... and the collaboration between photographer & writer celebrates the breed in quite an exceptional way ... If hunting photographs don't disturb you, then this wonderful book will help anyone understand how special it is to have a Labrador as friend and companion ...

The photographer of this book really knows his craft and Labrador Retrievers. Easily the best photography book on the breed today and the accompanying text is also top-notch. You'll love this book.....period