 The breed tends to shed hair twice annually or regularly throughout the year in temperate climates . Some Labradors shed considerably ; however , individual Labradors vary . Labrador hair is usually short and straight , and the tail is quite broad and strong . The webbed toes of the Labrador Retriever make them excellent swimmers . The webbing between their toes can also serve as a " snowshoe " in colder climates and keep snow from balling up between their toes — a condition that can be painful to other breeds with hair between the toes . Their interwoven coat is also relatively waterproof , providing more assistance for swimming . 
