One of the most familiar dogs, the Labrador Retriever has been topping “popular dog” lists for at least two decades. The dogs from which the present-day Labrador Retriever descended were not from Labrador, as is commonly supposed, but from Newfoundland. Here, from the 18th century onwards, black dogs with waterproof coats were bred by local fishermen and used to help tow in catches and retrieve escaping fish. Dogs of this early type no longer exist, but a few were brought to England in the 19th century and these led to the development of the modern Labrador Retriever. By the early 20th century the breed was officially recognized and continued to be much admired by field sportsmen for its excellent retrieving skills. 

Today, the Labrador Retriever is still widely used as a gundog and has proved efficient at other types of work, such as tracking for police forces. In particular, its steady character makes it a superb guide dog for the blind. However, it is as a family dog that this breed has gained great popularity. The Labrador Retriever is loving and lovable, easy to train, anxious to please, and reliable with children and household pets – but it has too amiable a character to make a good guard dog. 

This breed has energy to burn and needs to be kept mentally as well as physically active. Long daily walks are essential, preferably with the chance to have a swim along the way. If this dog sees water, it will plunge straight in. Under-exercised and left to its own devices, a Labrador Retriever may be given to excessive barking or become destructive. It tends to gain weight quickly, and lack of exercise combined with its insatiable appetite can lead to weight problems.

The Breed History 

This breed, the most popular breed in North America, took its name from the province of Labrador-Newfoundland in Canada, where this hardy breed was first reported in the early 1800s. They were exported to England not long after, and recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1903. AKC registrations began in 1917.

Physical Characteristics

Height at Withers:
Female: 21.5-23.5” ( 54.5-59.5cm)
Male: 22.5-24.5” (57-62 cm)

Weight:
Females 55-70 lb (25-32 kg)
Males 65-80 lb (29.5-36.5 kg)

Coat: Their glossy water-resistant coat is flat, dense and short, and comes in three colors: black, chocolate and yellow. They have a soft wooly undercoat that provides insulation and water resistance.

Longevity: 11-13 years

Recognized Behavior Issues and Traits

These dogs are famous for their placid, loving temperament. They enjoy play and need lots of human contact. Their loyalty and intelligence make them a treasured companion dog. Good with children and other pets, they are also easy to train but they need to be trained from an early age. They require both mental challenge and physical exercise for good health. If bored, they may resort to chewing. They are average shedders that need only routine grooming care. They gain weight easily.