According to Fédération Cynologique Internationale (or FCI, for short), there are roughly 340 “recognized” dog breeds in the world. They are formally divided into 10 subgroups based on their traits and abilities. While all breeds shine in different areas, though, there seems to be one breed that reigns supreme for all; the Labrador Retriever.

According to the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever is America’s all-time favorite dog breed. Not only for this year, either. In fact, this beloved breed has held onto its number one title for close to 30 years, beating out all other breeds in the census since 1991.

Can you believe that?! It seems insane that out of all the millions of dogs out there and out of over 300 registered breeds, the Labrador Retriever has won every time. Then again, when you start looking at some of their photos it’s easy to see why.

Here are 12 unbelievably adorable reasons why you should most definitely adopt a Labrador Retriever as soon as you can.

1. Their unbelievable patience

One thing you might notice about a lab is that they’re incredibly patient. Like, more patient than most people…maybe even yourself. Could you ever balance that many of your favorite treats on your face and resist the urge to devour them all? We wouldn’t bet on it.

2. Can you say BFF?

Another thing about a labrador retriever is that you will have a best friend for life. Even better, if you have a kid they will have a BFF. They will be the ultimate partners in crime and you’ll be powerless when faced with their adorable smiles, and no one will blame you a bit.

3. They take it in stride

Labs are also some of the most stoic creatures you’ll find on the planet. They have an unquenchable love and thirst for life, and they won’t let anything keep them from living it to the fullest. Like this incredible lab who lost his legs and didn’t let it slow him down at all.

4. You won’t find a cuter cuddle bug

If you love lazy days in bed, then you are really going to love them with a faithful lab by your side. They love to lounge like the rest of us, and they prefer to do it in the luxury of your bed. You might think that you don’t want a dog in your bed but trust us, those feelings will disappear when you’re snuggled up to a cutie like this.

5. They can show you the meaning of R & R

Labradors are all about getting in a little rest and relaxation. In fact, they’re better at enjoying it than most people. They really know how to live in the moment, whether that’s playing hard or taking it easy in the pool. Whatever they’re doing, they put their heart and soul into it.

6. They WILL make you laugh harder than any comedian

They all have their dorky moments and it only makes them cuter. This is Viking. He’s got a crossed eye and a goofy personality to match, and he is 100% lab through and through. You can bet your bottom dollar that not a day goes by that he doesn’t make his hoomans laugh their tushies off.

7. They are made of pure love

Labs are super sociable and make friends with everyone, even and especially other labs. Their little hearts are filled to the brim with nothing but pure love and they just can’t help themselves when it comes to expressing it. Truth be told, we’re glad they can’t.

8. Cause every girl’s crazy ’bout a sharp-dressed lab

Move over fellas! The new boss is in town. Everyone knows there’s just something irresistible about a crisp collar and a fresh tie. Not necessarily when it adorns a man, but definitely when it comes to a Lab!

9. They basically invented the puppy stare

The term “puppy-eyes” to describe the cutest face ever came about for a reason. That reason was a Labrador Retriever. Sure, all dogs can give the puppy-stare, but none of them are as cuteness overkill as one that comes from a Lab pup.

10. They’re all champions in the water

It’s true. It doesn’t matter if they’re black, chocolate, or golden. If you’ve got a Labrador retriever in the family, then you’ve got a water lover. In fact, another common name for their breed class is “waterdog”. As much as they love to retrieve, there’s nothing better than retrieving it from the water.

11. They always know where they’re needed most

It’s also true that if there was a picture in the dictionary next to the word ‘loyal’, it would be the face of a Lab. They are as devoted to their people as could ever be. They always know right when they’re presence is needed, and they never fail to give it to you in full. You won’t find a more dedicated companion.

12. They’ll never fail to turn that frown upside down

Even on the hardest of days, if you’re coming home to a Lab you know the stress will all just slip away. That’s particularly true if there is more than one of them in the house. They love to be goofballs and they love it even more if it puts a smile on your face. Dogs really are cheaper than therapy, and they’re there for you 24/7.

So, what do you think? Want a Lab in your life yet? We sure hope so, and if you do decide to add one to your family, we hope you’ll consider adopting one. Bonus reason: they will show you the true meaning of joy.

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H/T: AnimalChannel