The coat colors of Labradors are yellow, black, and chocolate. However, the dilution of these colors can result in some other colors, like charcoal and silver. Charcoal Labradors are the result of the dilution of black Labradors while silver Labradors are a version of chocolate-colored Labs. Both these pups have a lot in common because they are members of the same breed. Keep reading to get a detailed comparison between Charcoal and Silver Labradors
Charcoal Labrador
The charcoal Labrador is a purebred Labrador retriever dog. These dogs originally come from Newfoundland (now known as Canada). Although the Labradors are known as water dogs, charcoal Labradors are quite popular as gun dogs. They have extraordinary hunting skills and have also served as working dogs because they form a great bond with humans.
Since these dogs are diluted forms of black Labradors, they look quite like them. The dilute gene is responsible for their unique charcoal coat color. Other than that, they have a straight double coat just like any other Labrador retriever. They are quite intelligent and these quick learners will need less training than most canines. However, they do require a large amount of daily exercise to remain active and healthy.
Silver Labrador
These Labradors were developed by the diluted genes of chocolate Labrador. The origin of silver Labrador is always debatable as there is a lot of confusion about it. However, a report suggests that these Labradors first appeared in the United States in the 1950s. Silver Lab was one of the early kennels to produce this new silver color.
Just like any other Labradors, these labs are also quite good at hunting and retrieving, especially in playing activities. They are quite good at water sports too.
The color of these pups is silver or gray with a straight double and water-resistance coat. They have different colors of nose and eyes compared to the other Labradors. Silver Lab has blue or light-yellow eyes with light brown noses. Contrastingly, most Labs have black or brown noses with brown or hazel eyes. They are registered by AKC (American Kennel Club) as Chocolate Labs with proof of three generations of purebred Lab breeding history.
Differences Between Charcoal and Silver Labrador
The following table shows some major differences between these two Labradors.
| Characteristics | Charcoal Labrador | Silver Labrador |
| Origin | Canada and England | Germany and France |
| Weight | Male: 65 to 80 pounds Female: 55 to 70 pounds | Male: 70 pounds Female: 55 to 60 |
| Lifespan | 10 to 12 years | 10 to 15 years |
| Coat Color | Charcoal | Silver or gray |
| Gene | Dilute gene of black lab | Dilute gene of chocolate lab |
Similarities Between Charcoal and Silver Labrador
Some of the biggest similarities between charcoal and silver Labradors are discussed below.
Purebred – Both are purebred but there were many speculations about the silver lab which was cleared by AKC after they registered them as chocolate labs.
Height – Just like other Labradors, both these dogs are 21 to 24 inches tall.
Intelligence – Both these pups are very intelligent and easy to train.
Temperament – Both these pooches are very friendly and loving to humans. They are even-tempered and loyal dogs that will make great family pets.
Training – Both charcoal and silver Labradors need less training. However, both of them want to learn new things and won’t shy away from any challenge.
Shedding – Just like other Labradors, they are not hypoallergenic and shed hair heavily because of their double coat.
Exercise – Both are energetic and active dogs which means to keep them healthy and happy, a lot of daily exercise is required to burn their excessive energy.
Living Environment – Labradors are considered large dogs and always prefer large places like yards. Similarly, both dogs prefer yards but can survive apartment living if proper training and exercise are given to them.
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Who Should Get a Charcoal Labrador?
People who have large places, like backyards, can get this dog. They are not only loving but are also quite loyal to their masters. Charcoal Labradors love to play in water due to their history of retrieving water game. They can also adapt to apartment living if the owners are experienced enough to train them and can take care of their needs.
People who want to spend less must get a charcoal Labrador. This is because the price range for this dog is around $800 to $1000.
Who Should Get a Silver Labrador?
These beautiful blue-eyed pups are quite pleasing to look at. Hence, they make an ideal alternative for those owners who are looking for an attractive companion. Silver Labradors are quite fond of playing and can be adopted by the people who have an active lifestyle.
They are quite cool in nature and bark less, especially when they are alone for some time. This means that owners who stay away from home for some hours should get a silver Lab. People with houses (with a backyard) as well as apartments can get these dogs. However, apartment owners will have to focus on fulfilling their mental and physical needs.
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