Brief History:
There are many theories as to the origin of the Labrador Retriever. It is believed that the Lab's ancestors were brought to Newfoundland by explorers, fishermen, and settlers from England and other European nations. One theory suggests that the Labrador descended from the Newfoundland dog. However, there is no evidence that any dogs existed in Newfoundland prior to the arrival of the fishermen or explorers and, in fact, it is thought that the Newfoundland dog itself was brought to the island by fishermen from Europe. It is believed that these dogs adapted to their environment and, by natural selection, evolved into two distinct types: the large heavy-coated dog now known as the Newfoundland dog and the smaller, shorter-coated type called the "black Water Dog", the "lesser Newfoundland" and later, the "St.John's dog." Both types were excellent water dogs, had strong inherent hunting abilities and thick double coats to protect them from the elements.
In the early 1800s, several keen sportsmen and members of English nobility acquired some of the smaller-type dogs and brought them back to England. For many years, the breed was kept pure. However, when difficulty arose in obtaining fresh breeding stock, the Labradors were crossed with other sporting breeds. The Labrador, as he is known today, was therefore of British origin.
The breed quickly became the sporting dog of choice in Britain and earned respect throughout the world as a war dog, police dog and guide dog for the blind. The breed was officially recognized by The Kennel Club (U.K.) in 1903 and was first registered in Canada in 1905. It was not until 1917 that the first Labrador Retriever was registered by the American Kennel Club.
Today, based on Canadian Kennel Club registrations, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed in Canada for the past six consecutive years. In the U.S., the Labrador has held the number one spot for the past 16 consecutive years according to American Kennel Club registration statistics.
Breed Profile:
The Labrador Retriever is loyal, devoted, playful, people oriented and hardworking. His expression is alert and intelligent and he conveys a kind, friendly temperament, which is one of his best features. He often works as a guide dog or assistance dog for the disabled; a search-and-rescue dog and a sniffer dog; or he can be found in the field hunting waterfowl. He is patient with children and makes a wonderful companion. Although he may bark protectively, he is too much of a people dog to be a good guard dog.
The Labrador Retriever's temperament is a hallmark of the breed and the ideal disposition is one of a kind, outgoing nature; eager to please and non-aggressive. He is gentle, intelligent and adaptable.
The Lab is a medium-sized, strongly built, well balanced and athletic dog. His coat is a distinctive feature and should be short, straight and very dense, with the hard outer coat helping to repel water. The downy undercoat should be soft and weather-resistant providing protection from water, cold and all types of ground cover. The coat colours are either black, yellow or chocolate. Other distinguishing features include an "otter" tail; a clean-cut head and broad skull; and friendly, expressive eyes showing character, intelligence and good temperament.
A Word of Caution: In part due to the popularity of the breed, the Labrador Retriever is, unfortunately, at risk of irresponsible breeders attempting to cash in. If you are considering the purchase of a Labrador Retriever puppy, be especially selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders section and, more specifically, the Information for the Potential Puppy or Dog Owner.)
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Health Issues:
Labrador Retrievers, as with other breeds, are susceptible to some health problems, some of a genetic nature, others viral. The Health Concerns for the Labrador Retriever document includes information on some of the known health concerns found in the breed.
If you are considering the adoption of a Labrador Retriever puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. This should include, among others, hip x-rays to exclude hip dysplasia and eyes should be checked to see that they are normal and PRA clear. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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AKC Labrador Retriever Video
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
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Grooming the Labrador Retriever:
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Labrador Retriever, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- FAQ Labrador Retrievers — A comprehensive questions and answers section found at the Puget Sound Labrador Retriever Association website.
- The Amazing Labrador — The Canadian Kennel Club, the primary registry of purebred dogs in Canada, shows the Labrador Retriever as the most popular dog in Canada. The Lab is also the most registered breed by the American Kennel Club. He is playful, loving to people and hardworking...Read More
- Conformation Requirements — Working vs. Show Dogs by Dr. B.W. Ziessow
- English or American Labrador?
- Things You Need To Know Before You Adopt a Labrador Retriever Puppy
- You Want A Puppy, But Are You Really Ready? — A must read article for the potential Labrador Retriever owner, from Blue Knight Labradors.
- Is That A Labradoodle? — A must read article regarding "Doodles" and "Poos". These are not "exotic new breeds". Also see the Mixed-Breed Information section for additional articles on the crossing of breeds. This is being included in the Labrador Retriever breed section because of what is known as the Labradoodle — the cross of a Poodle and Labrador Retriever. Again, this is not an exotic new breed.
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs provides information on several dog sports and activities that you can get involved in with your Lab. Also included here is a listing of non-breed specific Clubs from across Canada (Note: For Labrador specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — The versatility of the Labrador Retriever breed makes him an excellent candidate to be involved in several dog jobs, including Guide Dog, Assitance Dog, Search and Rescue, Detection work, etc. This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs is dedicated to these wonderful working dogs and includes information on various dog jobs as well as listings of organizations from across Canada.
- Labrador Retriever Database
The database includes, so far, over 50,000 Labrador Retriever Dogs and more than 4,000 Kennel names listed from around the world.
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