The Origins of the Labrador
The origins of the Labrador Retriever can be traced back to the early 19th century in
Newfoundland, Canada. The breed was originally developed by fishermen who needed a strong and
capable dog to help them with fishing and hunting. They were used to retrieve fish that had
been caught in nets, and to help haul in fishing lines. They were also used to retrieve ducks
and other game that had been shot by hunters.
The original Labrador Retrievers were a cross between the St. John’s Water Dog, which was a
type of small Newfoundland dog, and other local breeds such as the English Setter, Pointer, and
Spaniel. These dogs were known for their strong retrieving instincts and their ability to work
in water.
The breed was then further developed in England in the early 1800s, where they were used as
hunting dogs and retrievers. They quickly became popular among hunters and sportsmen, and their
reputation as a versatile and capable breed spread throughout Europe.
In the late 1800s, the breed was introduced to America, and it quickly became one of the most
popular breeds in the country. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the
Labrador Retriever as a breed in 1917.
The breed’s popularity continues to grow and it is now considered one of the most popular dog
breeds in the world, known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, trainability and
versatility as service, therapy and search-and-rescue dogs.
Different Types of Labradors
The Labrador Retriever is recognized in three main colour variants: black, yellow, and
chocolate.
Black Labrador Retrievers are the most common colour variant, and they have a shiny, jet black
coat.
Yellow Labrador Retrievers range in colour from a light cream to a rich golden colour.
Chocolate Labrador Retrievers have a rich chocolate brown coat.
There are no significant differences in terms of personality, temperament, or trainability
between the different colour variants of Labrador Retrievers. The main difference is the colour
of their coat.
In addition to these standard colours, there are also “silver” or “dilute” labs which are also
recognized by some kennel clubs and organizations. These labs have a dilute gene that causes
the coat to appear silver or charcoal in colour. They are not as common as the standard colours
and may not be recognized by all kennel clubs.
It’s worth noting that some breeds, like the Silver Labrador Retriever, are not recognized by
the AKC and other major kennel clubs. They are considered a variation of the standard colour
Labrador Retrievers and may not be eligible to participate in AKC events or competitions.
Facts about Labradors
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, known for their
friendly and outgoing personalities.
Labs were originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada in the early 19th century to help with
fishing and hunting.
Labrador Retrievers have webbed feet, which helps them swim better. They are excellent swimmers
and retrievers.
Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable and are commonly used as service dogs, therapy dogs,
and in search-and-rescue operations.
Labrador Retrievers come in three recognized colours: black, yellow, and chocolate.
Labs have a lifespan of 10-12 years, they are generally healthy but they can be prone to hip
and elbow dysplasia and obesity.
The AKC recognized the Labrador Retriever as a breed in 1917.
Labrador Retrievers are known for their love of food, which can make them prone to weight gain
if not exercised and fed properly.
Labrador Retrievers have a thick, water-repellent double coat that keeps them warm in cold
water and protects them from the sun.
Labs are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, and they are considered to be one
of the most trainable and easy-to-train breeds.