Description: Avalanche is just about the cutest thing you ever did want to see. We were told by his owner that he is a Dachshund/Lab/Retriever mix. He is what we call a mini-lab ~ the features and personality of a lab packaged in the economy size! Just 33 pounds and 10 months old, Avalanche is bound to add joy to your home! Did you know that black dogs and cats are the least likely to be adopted? I don't know why that is. Maybe they just don't stand out. ZooToo recently interviewed Judy as part of a Black Dog Syndrome story. Avalanche is even in it! You can view it at http://www.zootoo.com/zootootv/v/petpulse796blackdogsyndromeb2 *** How familiar are you with the Labrador Retriever? According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, the Labrador Retriever is a loving, affectionate, lovable, patient dog. Once known as the "St John's Dogs," the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada the Labrador was trained to jump overboard into the icy waters to haul fisherman's nets to shore. Specimens were brought to England in the 1800's by English ships coming from Labrador, where the dog's fine retrieving instincts were honed and developed. One of the best family dogs and canine companions because of their gentle, loving disposition, the highly trainable Labrador also excels in drug detection, as a guide for the blind, and service dog for the disabled. The breed is also an outstanding obedience and field trial competitor. Highly intelligent, loyal, willing, and high-spirited. Lively and good-natured, they love to play, especially in water - for they love to swim. They have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are friendly, superb with children and equable with other dogs. They crave human attention and need to feel as though they are part of the family. Labs are easily trained. These dogs are watchdogs, not guard dogs, although some have been known to guard. They have a life expectancy of 10-12 years.