breed

Breed Information

Although the origins of North America's most popular breed are somewhat shrouded in mystery, there is a common consensus that the Labrador Retriever is descended from dogs taken to Newfoundland by settlers from Britain and Europe. It is also common consensus, that over time these settlers' dogs evolved into two seperate types, a large heavily coated breed, which became the Newfoundland Dog, and a smaller shorter coated breed referred to as the St John's Water Dog.

Around the beginning of the 19th century, members of the English upper class took an interest in the small black water dogs that the Newfoundland settlers brought back to England with them, and aquired several. Upon discovering the dogs' innate retrieving abilities, breeding programs were established, by crossing the St John's Water Dog with other Sporting Breeds, thus developing the breed we know today as the Labrador.

The Labrador soon toppled the Curly-Coated and Flat-Coated Retrievers' status as Britain's gundogs of choice, and to this day, it has remained more popular than either. The breed was first recognized by the Kennel Club (Britain) in 1903, and the first dogs were registered in Canada in 1906-07.

Labradors are adaptable dogs, and adjust well to several different lifestyles. They are equally happy in the suburbs as they are in the country, and provided the owner is willing to put in the time, and effort they can be equally happy in the downtown townhouse, or apartment. Labradors are naturally active, and require daily exercise to keep them in good condition. Training is a must, as in every dog (having lived with trained dogs for a number of years now, I can't imagine how people can put up with an untrained one!). Raised and trained with care and common sense, a Labrador will provide 12-14 years of love, trust, friendship, and joy.

Most likely the Labrador's popularity stems from its endless versatility. As well as its premier occupation of hunting partner, the Labrador has been used in war, police work including drug and bomb detection, guide dog to the blind, water rescue work, search and rescue work, and devoted family companion. The possibilities are endless.

Popularity though comes with a price... the breed is afflicted with numerous genetic defects, including hip & elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, heart problems, retinal dysplasia, skin disorders... the list goes on. Many breeders, including myself try their best to limit these disorders, through genetic screening - but this is not a 100% guarantee that they won't surface.

Also when looking for a breeder, look for one who not only competes in the show ring, but one who competes in obedience and working events as well. The breed was developed for a reason, and that reason was to work! There is more to a true Labrador than just a Show Championship.