Labrador Retrievers, originally from Newfoundland, were initially used in work alongside fisherman, helping to pull in nets and catch fish that escaped from fishing lines. After being crossed with Setters, Spaniels and other Retrievers, the Labrador Retriever honed its skills as a true retriever. From this point in the breed’s history, “Labs”, as they are affectionately called, were bred primarily to perform as an efficient retriever of game, with a stable temperament suitable for a variety of activities beyond hunting.
The Labrador Retriever is a strongly built, medium-
The most distinguishing characteristics of the Labrador Retriever are its short, dense, weather resistant coat; an “otter” tail; a clean-
Their height ranges from 21”-
The Labrador Retriever coat colors are black, yellow and chocolate. Any other color or a combination of colors is a disqualification. A small white spot on the chest is permissible, but not desirable. Black dogs are all black. Yellows may range in color from fox-
The Labrador Retriever has a mellow personality and gets along well with children, other dogs, and any household pets. We especially appreciate the way the Labradors behave with children. We have had children bounce on our dog’s backs, pull their ears, crawl on them, and so on … and the dog takes it all! If it becomes tired of the activity, it gets up and walks away. Some Labrador Retrievers may chew but they can be trained not to. Labradors generally do not make great watchdogs because they are friendly with strangers and are not territorial.
They have a very keen sense of smell. Most Labrador Retrievers are athletic; puppies are particularly active. Labrador Retrievers have a lifespan of 10-
The Labrador Retriever has been the number one breed in the USA for the past 22 years (1990-2012). They are unusually adaptable, obedient and kind-