Breed info on the

Labrador Retriever 

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BREED HISTORY

The modern Labrador Retriever does not come from Labrador, Canada, but rather from Newfoundland. Indeed, the original Labradors have disappeared, after having left their mark as progenitors to Labrador Retrievers. No one knows for certain how the Labradors came to Newfoundland, but they certainly lived there by the early part of the 19th century. They were used as water retrievers, swimming though icy water to bring in birds. They had strong, compact bodies and short, smooth, oily hair that prevented ice from clinging to it.

Fishermen and tradesmen eventually took the Labradors to England, where the canines' reputations as highly skilled retrievers spread. Later in the century, however, a very penal dog tax and quarantine law led to the dogs' demise in both Newfoundland and England. Before disappearing, however, the dogs were bred with a variety of retrievers, thus preserving many of the Labrador traits. Dog enthusiasts, fearing the dilution of these valued characteristics, soon created a breed standard and limited the practice of interbreeding. Dog clubs followed and Labrador Retrievers have been successfully competing in conformation and field trials ever since.

Today, the Labrador Retriever's even temperament, strong physique and willingness to work has made it a multi-purpose and valued breed. These dogs work as guide, guard, tracking, therapy and search and rescue assistants. Available in a wide variety of colors, they also make very popular family pets.

IDEAL BREED CHARACTERISTICS

Height: Males 22 1/2 to 24 1/2 inches, Females 21 1/2 to 23 1/2 inches (at the withers).

Appearance: Compact, square body with active, effortless motion.

Coat and Color: Short, thick, straight, hard coat. Color can be black, yellow (cream to deep red) or chocolate (light to dark shades).

Head: Wide skull with a straight muzzle; medium-sized eyes, brown or black preferred; medium-sized ears hang near the head.

Tail: Very thick, straight, medium-length and tapered.