Country of Origin:  Newfoundland (Canada)

History: The Labrador Retriever was bred as a hunter and water retriever, the Lab was developed from Saint John’s Newfoundland’s and other gun dogs in the early nineteenth century.  It was a distinct breed by the mid-nineteenth century.  The Labrador retriever is the most popular companion dog in the U.S. and still is used for hunting, as well as a number of other jobs, including search and rescue, detection, and service work.

Physical Description: Labs are a medium to large-size, muscular dog.  It has a broad head with a black or brown nose (black on black and yellow Labs, brown on chocolate Labs); brown or hazel eyes; and short, triangular drop ears.  The otter tail is long and thick.  The double coat has a short, dense undercoat and short, straight, water-resistant outer coat in black, yellow, or chocolate.  There may be a white spot on the chest.

Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches

Weight: 55 to 80+ pounds

Temperament: The Labrador retriever is enthusiastic, social, and biddable.  It is even-tempered and friendly with almost everyone, including children and other dogs.  It loves the water and carrying objects in its mouth.

Activity Level: High

Best Owner: It does well with an active family in a rural or suburban environment but canadapt to city life with sufficient exercise.

Special Needs: Exercise, training

Possible Health Concerns: Arthritis, hip dysplasia, PRA

References

the original dog bible, Mehus-Roe