Gorgeous Silver Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale

davin connor

Gorgeous Silver Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale

If you’re searching for a loyal, loving companion with a truly stunning look, you need to meet the radiant silver Labrador Retriever. With their rare pale gray coats and trademark Labrador friendly temperaments, these silver lab puppies for sale are capturing the hearts of families. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the silver Labrador breed, where to find reputable breeders, what to expect when raising a silver lab puppy, and why these gorgeous dogs make such amazing family pets.

What is A Silver Labrador?

What is A Silver Labrador?

Before we go any further, let’s clarify, the silver Labrador is not a separate breed from the classic Labrador Retriever. It’s simply a rare color variation that produces that breathtaking pale gray or silvery sheen.

The unique silver coat results from a dilution in the pigment genes that typically create the more common black, chocolate, and yellow Lab colors. But make no mistake silver labs are 100% purebred Labradors through and through.

ALSO READ: The Top 8 Labrador Retriever Puppies For Sale In Colorado: 2024 Breeders List

Silver Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Information

At their core, silver Labrador Retrievers are faithful representatives of the world-famous Labrador breed beloved for their friendly personalities and versatile natures. 

Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the Lab such an ideal family companion:

Overview

Originally bred as a retriever hunting dog in Newfoundland, Canada, Labradors quickly won over British nobles in the 1800s with their superior retrieving skills and even temperaments in the field and home. By the 20th century, they had become immensely popular in the United States and United Kingdom as well.

The first documented silver lab puppy didn’t emerge until the 1950s, likely the result of a natural genetic mutation. But these unique silver colored labs descended from the same hard-working retrieving lines as their more standard shaded kin.

Temperament

One of the Labrador’s biggest claims to fame is their incredibly friendly, outgoing, eager-to-please personalities. Silver Labs are no exception; they thrive on human companionship and are always ready with a wagging tail and a happy smile for their families.

These affectionate lugs get along swimmingly with children of all ages, thanks to their patience and gentle, playful nature. With proper socialization, they also typically do well with other pets in the household.

Adaptability

While bred for an active sporting life, the adaptable Labrador can thrive in just about any living situation as long as their need for daily exercise is met. Even families in apartments or suburbs can make wonderful Silver lab owners by supplying plenty of vigorous walks, games of fetch, and mentally stimulating activities.

Health

Overall, Labradors are a relatively healthy breed with a life expectancy of around 10-12 years. However, there are some conditions that silver Labrador puppies can be prone to without proper breeding practices, including:

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity (thanks to those healthy appetites.)
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Exercise-induced collapse

Working with a reputable breeder who performs all the recommended health tests on their parent stock is crucial for avoiding issues down the road.

Owner Experience

Thanks to their intelligence, biddability, and love of swimming and retrieving, silver Labrador Retrievers excel in a wide variety of doggy activities beyond just being a great family pet. Many find success as:

  • Hunting companions
  • Search and rescue dogs
  • Guide or service dogs
  • Therapy dogs
  • Competitive obedience, agility, or dock diving

No matter what activities you pursue, these versatile silver labs live to put their skills to work and make their owners proud.

Grooming

While not completely hypoallergenic, the silver Labrador’s short, straight, dense double coat is relatively low-maintenance. Weekly brushing with a slicker brush will control their minimal shedding, while occasional baths (more if they get muddy swimming.) and nail trims should cover most of their grooming needs.

Activity Level

Let’s be clear – all Labradors, including Silver Labs, are high-energy active breed dogs who require a substantial amount of daily exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. At a minimum, plan for:

  • 1-2 hours of vigorous activity like running, swimming, hiking, or playing fetch
  • Plenty of interactive games, food puzzles, or training to engage their minds
  • A securely fenced yard for burning off extra puppy zoomies.

Without proper outlets, energetic silver lab puppies can easily become bored and destructive in the home. Their exercise needs make the Lab breed better suited for active owners and families.

Size

As part of the “sporting” breed group, silver Labrador Retrievers are medium to large dogs. Most males stand between 22-24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 65-80 pounds. Females are just slightly smaller, at 21-23 inches and 55-70 pounds.

Of course, silver lab puppies start out tiny and adorable, gaining size rapidly until reaching their full height and weight around 12-16 months old.

Life Span

With their energy, intelligence, and versatility, it’s no wonder many consider silver Labradors to be the total package when it comes to family pets and working dogs. But like all breeds, their lifespan is unfortunately limited.

In general, most Labs live between 10-12 years with proper nutrition, preventative care, and lifestyle. Responsible breeders doing genetic testing can help produce litters with the best chance at a long and healthy life.

Did You Know?

  • Labradors have been the #1 most popular breed in the United States for over 25 years running!
  • They share ancestry with several other retriever breeds like Golden Retrievers, Flat Coated Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.
  • “Lab” is short for the Labrador breed’s original name the St. John’s Water Dog from Newfoundland.
  • In addition to field work, some silver and charcoal Labradors were used to create the first guide dog breeding program for the blind.

Silver Labrador Color Genetics

Silver Labrador Color Genetics

We know the silver lab coat is a stunning, shimmery pale gray. But what exactly causes this unique diluted pigmentation compared to other Labrador colors like black, chocolate, and yellow?

It all comes down to a specific gene known as the D locus dilute gene. This is a recessive gene, which means both parents must be carriers of the responsible genetic mutation to produce silver-colored puppies.

In silver labs, the D locus dilute gene blocks the full development of pigment in the A locus, which controls whether the dog is black, chocolate, or yellow. The result is a gorgeous, smoky pale gray silver coat.

It’s also possible for this same gene to produce even lighter gray shades by further diluting the coat to a charcoal or blue color. However, true silver labs are distinguished by their more striking pale gray coats.

Featured Silver Labrador Retriever

To better illustrate what makes the silver lab such an incredible breed, let’s meet an exceptional silver Labrador Retriever named Dakota:

At 5 years old, Dakota is the star family dog for the Jacksons – Mom Amy, Dad Michael, and kids Emma (7) and Tyler (5). Despite being a purebred AKC Registered silver Lab from championship bloodlines, Dakota’s true mission in life is to bring joy to her beloved humans.

“Dakota is like another child to us,” Amy shares. “She has so much energy and such a fun, goofy personality. The kids are constantly keeping her entertained with games of fetch and tug-of-war, although I think sometimes she wears them out even more.”

Beyond being an enthusiastic playing partner, Dakota also accompanies the Jackson family on all their outdoor adventures, like hiking, swimming, and camping trips. Her natural instincts as a retriever make her a talented fetching partner for Michael’s hobby hunting outings as well.

“I’ll never forget when Emma was just learning to swim, and Dakota stayed right by her side the whole time, like her own personal lifeguard,” Michael remembers fondly. “These dogs are incredibly protective of their families.”

While high energy, Dakota is also a cuddly lap dog who loves snuggling up for movie nights with her humans. The Jacksons couldn’t be happier with their decision to welcome a silver Labrador puppy into their

Breeders and Puppy Prices

Breeders and Puppy Prices
Breeders and Puppy Prices

If you’ve fallen in love with the Silver Lab’s unique looks and phenomenal temperament, you’re likely wondering where to find one of these gorgeous puppies. The key is seeking out a responsible, reputable breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and ethical breeding practices over profits.

A great place to start is the Labrador Retriever breed club websites for your region, like the Labrador Retriever Club for the UK or the Labrador Retriever Club of America in the US. These organizations can provide referrals to members who specialize in breeding the silver coat color variation.

When contacting silver Labrador breeders, ask about:

  • The health certifications and genetic testing performed on parent dogs
  • Whether puppies will be registered with a kennel club like the AKC/UKC
  • How they socialize and raise the litter (in their home is ideal)
  • Any competition, work, or achievement titles held by the parents

Responsible breeders should also screen potential puppy buyers by asking about your lifestyle, home environment, and ability to provide an energetic lab with adequate exercise. Be prepared to get on a waitlist, as quality silver lab litters are in high demand.

So how much can you expect to pay for a well-bred silver Labrador Retriever puppy? Prices can vary significantly based on the breeder’s reputation and whether the pup is intended as a pet, show, or working/hunting prospect. But a general price range is:

Pet Quality Silver Labrador Puppy: $800 – $1200 Show/Working Quality Silver Lab Puppy: $1500 – $3000+

Higher prices simply reflect the greater time, money, and stringent breeding practices invested by top breeders striving to produce the healthiest silver Lab puppies possible. Responsible breeders should also provide:

  • AKC/UKC registration paperwork
  • First rounds of vaccinations
  • Deworming
  • A written health guarantee

While it’s possible to find silver Labrador puppies for sale at lower prices from less reputable breeders or pet stores, these bargains often come at the cost of unknowingly supporting puppy mills and irresponsible breeding practices that produce sickly pups. Working with an ethical breeder is worth the investment for a happier, healthier lifelong companion.

Silver Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale

To give you an idea of what to expect when searching for an upcoming litter of silver lab puppies, let’s take a look at some currently available pups from vetted breeders:

Breeder: Silver Creek Labradors  Manchester, UK

This respected breeder has two litters of AKC-registered silver Labrador puppies for sale expected in late June. Both litters are from champion bloodlines and bred specifically for temperament, trainability, and the striking silver coat color.

Lucy and Luke’s Litter

  • Born: June 18, 2023 (shipping late August)
  • 4 silver females, 3 silver males
  • Parents: AKC CH Sundog Sugar Magnolia JH x AKC CH Candlewood’s Sterling Silver SH
  • Price: £1800 for pet-quality pups
  • Health: OFA hips, elbows, eyes, EIC, CNM clear

Gigi and Gage’s Litter

  • Born: June 24, 2023 (shipping early Sept)
  • 2 silver females, 5 silver males
  • Parents: Can CH High Drive’s True Grit JH WC x AKC CH Duckhill Georgia Pine SH
  • Price: £2000 for show/working prospect pups
  • Health: OFA hips, elbows, eyes, EIC, CNM, PRA clear

All Silver Creek’s silver Labrador puppies come with AKC registration, age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, a 2-year health guarantee, and a comprehensive puppy starter kit. Transportation is also available for UK and overseas buyers.

Breeder: Pinnacle Point Labradors  Fargo, North Dakota

This smaller-scale hobby breeder outside of Fargo has one upcoming litter of silver lab pups expected in early July, bred specifically for their sterling temperaments as family companions and hunting partners:

Sage and Stryker’s Litter

  • Born: July 5, 2023 (ready late August)
  • 3 silver females, 2 silver males
  • Parents: Gale Force Windswept Sage x Drakesride The Silver Stryker JH WC
  • Price: $1000 for all puppies
  • Health: OFA hips, elbows, eyes, EIC, CNM, PRA clear

All Pinnacle Point silver Labrador Retrievers come with a 2-year health guarantee, starter supplies like food, toys, and AKC registration for the puppy buyer’s choice of call name. The breeder will also begin cage training, socialization, and introducing basic obedience commands.

In addition to profiles on available puppies for sale, many ethical breeders will have info on previous litters, parent dogs, competition achievements, and even input from families who have taken home one of their silver Lab puppies.

Should I Get a Silver Labrador?

Should I Get a Silver Labrador?

From their gorgeous, rare silver coats to their boundless energy and eager-to-please personalities, it’s clear why more and more families are seeking out silver Labrador Retriever puppies. But is this breed the right fit for your lifestyle?

On the plus side, silver labs make wonderful family companions that thrive on constant human interaction and activity. Their intelligence, versatility, and biddable natures mean they can be trained for a wide variety of jobs and sports. And you’ll never find a more loving, loyal buddy by your side.

However, owning a high energy Labrador also requires a serious commitment of time and energy for sufficient daily exercise, mental stimulation, training, and socialization from an early age. These are absolutely not couch potato lap dogs.

Silver labs need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous activity every single day, whether that’s hiking, swimming, playing fetch games, or participating in dog sports. Their need for both physical and mental exercise cannot be overstated. Bored silver lab puppies can easily develop destructive habits without appropriate outlets.

Grooming demands are relatively minimal, with a good weekly brushing. But be prepared for plenty of mud baths if you have a water-loving Lab. And you’ll need to be proactive about avoiding common Labrador health issues like obesity, hip/elbow dysplasia, and exercise-induced collapse.

As long as you thoroughly understand and are prepared for the substantial exercise, training, socialization, and overall time commitments required for this energetic breed, a silver Labrador Retriever can make an absolutely superb family pet and lifelong companion. With their loving, eager personalities and stunning appearances, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more loyal best friend.

Conclusion

There’s no denying it – few dogs can match the striking beauty of the silver Labrador Retriever’s pale silver-gray coat. But as you now know, their unique looks are just one of many incredible traits that make these silver lab puppies such wonderful companions.

Behind that radiant silver fur beats the heart of a classic, eager-to-please Labrador – smart, hard-working, friendly, and always ready for the next adventure with their favorite humans. With the proper daily routine of vigorous exercise, mental stimulation, and training, these tireless household pets will bring endless joy and unconditional love to active families.

If you have the time, energy, and commitment required for this demanding breed, connect with reputable silver Labrador breeders in your area or watchdog clubs to learn about upcoming available litters. Be prepared to get on a waitlist and pay a premium price for a well-bred silver lab puppy, as the demand continues to rise for their rarity and eye-catching beauty.

But for those willing to put in the effort, a silver Labrador Retriever may just be the missing piece to make your family complete. Don’t let these extraordinary puppies for sale pass you by joining the ranks of the many smitten owners raising a silver lab of their own.

ALSO READ THIS POST: Labrador Retriever Puppies For Sale In North Carolina: Top Breeders To Consider

FAQ’s

How much do silver labs cost?

Silver Labrador Retrievers can cost anywhere from $800 to $3,000 or more from reputable breeders. Pet quality puppies are typically $800-$1,200, while show/working prospects are $1,500+. Prices reflect the significant effort put into responsible breeding practices.

Does AKC recognize Silver Labs?

Yes, the American Kennel Club (AKC) fully recognizes and registers the silver coat color in Labrador Retrievers. Silver is considered a dilute of the classic chocolate shade and is acknowledged as a purebred Labrador color variety.

Are silver Labradors rare?

Silver Labradors are considered quite rare compared to black, yellow, and chocolate Labs. While the exact numbers are unclear, it’s estimated that only about 10-20% of Labrador litters produce the recessive dilute gray “silver” coloring.

Is a silver lab a Weimaraner?

No, a silver Labrador Retriever is not the same as a Weimaraner, which is a separate breed from Germany. The dilute silver/gray color is caused by different genes in each breed. Silver Labs are purebred Labradors carrying the dilute gene.

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