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The Origin and Purpose of the Labrador Retriever

by Dr. B.W. Ziessow

The recent proliferation of books written about the Labrador Retriever is consistent with the breeds growth in popularity. All seem to have at least one thing in common; if not the first, one early chapter pertains to the origins and/or history of the Labrador Retriever.

Where did he come from? To understand the origin of the Labrador Retriever, almost requires a study of the history of Newfoundland. The island from whence he came. According to Dick Wolters, probably the best modern dog chronicler of the breed, the first people to settle Newfoundland were the Dorset Eskimos. However, they didn't have any dogs. Nor is there any evidence any dogs inhabited the island when they arrived.

Labrador Retriever Breed Standard

General Appearance
The Labrador Retriever is a strongly built, medium-sized, short-coupled, dog possessing a sound, athletic, well-balanced conformation that enables it to function as a retrieving gun dog; the substance and soundness to hunt waterfowl or upland game for long hours under difficult conditions; the character and quality to win in the show ring; and the temperament to be a family companion.

Physical features and mental characteristics should denote a dog bred to perform as an efficient Retriever of game with a stable temperament suitable for a variety of pursuits beyond the hunting environment. The most distinguishing characteristics of the Labrador Retriever are its short, dense, weather resistant coat; an "otter" tail; a clean-cut head with broad back skull and moderate stop; powerful jaws; and its "kind" friendly eyes, expressing character, intelligence and good temperament.

The Perfect Companion & Family Dogs

by Joshep Dougherty

Labrador retrievers are the without a doubt the most loyal and tolerant family dogs. We have bred and reared a number of them, and enjoy them a great deal. They are the perfect choice for families with small children, as these dogs are docile and very patient with tiny humans. The only caveat is that these are large, working dogs with all the energy of a breed created to spend long hours running in the field... as a result, prospective owners must ensure they have adequate space and time to keep these dogs at their healthiest.

Generally speaking, labs are happy, friendly souls, but they are rather easily bored. Labs have above average intelligence and learn quickly; as a result, they are the prototypical Seeing-Eye-Dog and Canine-Companion working dog. However, they are not, in truth, the Einsteins of the dog world. Labrador Retrievers make great family members, usually get along well with children and other pets. They will alert you to strangers, but are not "guard dogs", although they will offer protection to the best of their ability. Above all, they give unconditional love.