Charcoal Labradors and Silver Labradors aren’t the same, but to some, they appear slightly similar. Both dogs have a lot of things in common, and their shade even has a close resemblance. But the main difference between a Charcoal Labrador and a Silver Labrador is their color dilution.
The debate about the difference between them isn’t new in the dog industry, but still, a huge section of individuals has a lot of misinformation.
This article cum guide will help you understand all the minor and major differences between a Charcoal Labrador and a Silver Labrador. Let’s begin.
Charcoal and Silver Labradors’ aren’t amongst the type (Black, Yellow, and Chocolate Labs) of officially recognized Labradors, but their dilute version.
Charcoal Labrador and Silver Labrador- The Main Difference
Charcoal Labradors are a dilute version of Black Labradors, whereas Silver Labradors are a dilute version of Chocolate Labradors.
Both these dogs are a member of the same breed and have a lot of things in common. They aren’t recognized as a dedicated Lab type, but the American Kennel Club count them as Black and Chocolate Labradors, respectively.
More About Charcoal Labradors
Charcoal Labradors are purebred Labrador Retrievers quite popular with their unique color. They are a dilute version of Black Labrador, a result of a recessive gene, the “dilute gene.” Charcoal Labradors carry genes that cannot regulate the black color, and therefore they are slightly a mixture of a greyish color with a hint of mud that makes them Charcoal color-like.
Charcoal Labradors have a long history as hunting dogs, gun dogs, and working dogs. Simultaneously, they are also popular as Swimming dogs, all thanks to their excellent swimming skills.
More About Silver Labradors
Silver Labradors are purebred Labrador Retrievers who have been part of endless controversies. However, despite all the speculations, Silver Labradors are a dilute version of Chocolate Labradors. Their color is a result of the recessive gene “dilute gene” that is naturally present in selective Chocolate Labradors. From their origin to their color and being purebred have always been questionable and debatable. However, the American Kennel Club recognize them as purebred and categorize them under the Chocolate Labradors as one of their diluted versions.
Difference between Charcoal Labradors and Silver Labradors
Yes, other than their coat color, there are quite a few differences between a Charcoal Labrador and a Silver Labrador.
- Charcoal Labrador Vs. Silver Labrador Origin
The major difference between Charcoal Labradors and Silver Labradors is their origin. According to the pet history, Charcoal Labs originate from Newfoundland, which is now popular in Canada. Whereas Silver Labradors first appeared in the United States, but they are also speculated for their origin in areas of Newfoundland.
However, the real origin of Silver Labrador is not known since these dogs came out of nowhere during the 1950s. And because back then, their presence was highly questioned and debated, their origin isn’t well registered.
- Charcoal Labrador Vs. Silver Labrador Lifespan
Charcoal Labradors have a comparatively longer lifespan than Silver Labradors. However a lot of people claim that Charcoal Labs live longer than Silver, but if you study it deeply, the facts indicate differently.
Silver Labradors are a dilute version of Chocolate Labradors. And according to several studies around the world, Chocolate Labs have a significantly shorter lifespan than Yellow and Black Labradors.
And due to that, Charcoal Labradors, which are a dilute version of Black Labradors, will automatically have a longer lifespan than Silver.
Depending upon diet, access to preventive veterinary care, enrichment, exercise, and kind of living environment, the lifespan of a Charcoal Labrador would live 10 to 14 years. Whereas a Silver Labrador would live anywhere between 10 to 12 years.
- Charcoal Labrador Vs. Silver Labrador Size
Both Charcoal Labrador and Silver Labradors grow 21 to 24 inches tall; however, there is a significant difference in how much they weigh.
A male Charcoal Labrador would weigh 65 to 80 pounds, whereas a female from the breed weighs 55 to 70 pounds.
Simultaneously, a male Silver Labrador would weigh up to 70 pounds, and a female Silver Labrador would weigh nearly 55 to 60 pounds.
Charcoal Labrador Vs. Silver Labrador- The Similarities
Whether it is Charcoal or Silver Labrador, they are eventually Labrador Retrievers and thus have a lot in common. Both are purebred dogs and are dilute versions of different types of Labradors.
Both Charcoal Labrador and Silver Labrador have similar temperaments. They are friendly, active, loving towards humans, loyal and enthusiastic. Their social adaptability improves Labrador’s intelligence level and thus also makes them easy to train. Both Charcoal and Silver Labradors need less training, and still, they will adapt things within no time.
In addition, just like any Labrador Retriever, Charcoal Labrador and Silver Labrador have a double-layered coat, and they shed heavily. They aren’t hypoallergenic and thus not suitable for people with allergies.
Charcoal Labrador and Silver Labrador- Which dog is a better pet?
Depending upon which color you like, you can choose between a Charcoal and a Silver Labrador. Also, since the lifespan between both differs a little, ensure you can invest most of it before choosing the Labrador.
Besides that, nothing major will contribute to your experience of having a Charcoal or Silver Labrador. Both dogs are similar in temperament, easy to train and get along well with families. It is the Yellow Labrador that is calmer than others. But Black and Chocolate Labradors and their dilute versions are any days very similar to a pet.
Charcoal Labrador and Silver Labrador- How much do they cost?
A Silver Labrador is slightly more expensive than a Charcoal Labrador. Since Silver Labradors are quite rare, a puppy would cost anywhere at least $1000. In contrast, a Charcoal Labrador puppy would cost $750 or more.
The price of Charcoal Labrador and Silver Labrador also depends upon gender, age, genetic line, breeder, and region. Dogs with some special qualities, too, sometimes cost slightly higher than others.
Wrapping up…
That was all about Charcoal and Silver Labradors. In short, both these dogs are a dilute version of Black and Chocolate Labradors, respectively. However, in popularity and demand, Silver Labradors are slightly higher than other color Labradors.
But still, both these dogs will keep your home lively, happy, and always active. They are just like a standard Labrador other than their size.