Breed Profile: Labrador Retriever

The Labrador retriever actually began as a breed in Newfoundland, not in Labrador, and was likely named by its early British fanciers who lumped together the two distinct geographical locations. The breed may have had its origins in the fishing villages of the St. John’s district of Newfoundland in the 1600s, where fishermen used dogs to help haul in the catch. They needed dogs with a dense, water-repellent coat that wouldn’t soak up excess water or ball up with ice. The dogs they used became known for their tireless working abilities.

The Labrador eventually became a hunting and retrieving companion. British settlers brought the prized dogs back to England in the early 1800s, where the breed was refined and maintained by the English gentry and named the Labrador retriever. Most Labs in the United States descend from English Labs who were brought over after World War I, although American Labs tend to be slightly larger and less stocky than English Labs. They were first recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1917. Today, Labrador retrievers are used as gundogs, household companions, service dogs, and detection dogs.

The following description is of an “ideal” Labrador retriever. Not all Labs fit the description exactly, but that’s not an issue unless you want one who can participate in dog shows.

The Labrador retriever is often described as loyal, trustworthy, patient, intelligent, loving, and enthusiastic. This wonderful temperament is one of the biggest reasons why Labs are so popular among pet owners and so commonly used as service, therapy, and search-and-rescue dogs.

Here are some traits to consider when determining how well a Lab is going to fit in with you and your family.

A typical well-trained Labrador retriever loves the company of people. He is great for families and one of the best breeds for children. Nonetheless, children should be taught to interact appropriately with him. Small children should never be left alone with a Lab.

Because he is an active dog, the Labrador retriever is best suited to a rural or suburban environment. He is highly adaptable, though, and can do very well with city life as long as you give him long walks and romps in the dog park.

Labs are sporting dogs who need at least a half hour of vigorous exercise or play every day. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become overweight or even destructive as a way to get rid of excess energy. Labs love to play fetch—since they’re excellent swimmers, they especially like to play it in water.

Make sure that your dog has access to drinking water at all times and doesn’t become overheated when exercising.

Labrador retrievers are very trainable, as evidenced by their use as service, detection, and search-and-rescue dogs. They excel in obedience trials and hunt tests, and can easily learn basic obedience commands.