Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador Retriever--a beautiful, water-loving dog that makes a great companion. These dogs were bred in Great Britain for hunting, but are now used as companions, hunting dogs, and much more. There are also water contests in which the farthest jumping dog wins, and Labs work great for this.

The Labrador Retriever is normally a rather restless dog--constantly running off, and somehow finding its way into mischeif. They are bred to have a soft mouth that can grab a dead duck without injuring it. The Lab's mouth is so soft that it can carry an egg without breaking it. The dog is normally good around children, although a few, especially those who are mistreated, are quite snappy.

The Lab's history dates back to the early days of America, in Newfoundland (Great Britain area, now part of Canada). They were bred from the St. John Water Dogs, and made to jump into the icy waters of the Canadian sea and bring back the corks in the water which were attached to fishing nets. They were originally called St. John Dogs or Lesser Newfoundlands, but were renamed "Labrador" after the Spaniard's dogs, who had a striking resemblence to them and were mainly living in Laboreiro. Also, the rural/agricultural workers were called "lavradores" or "labradores." From this originated the name, "Labrador."

The Labrador came down through the centuries as a great dog, highly important in fishing and duck or goose hunting. Now, they compete in competitions, including dog agility contests. They are great at disabled assistance, and are easily trained. They thrive well with other dogs and in urban places, but unfortunately most have athritic disorders as they grow older.

The Labrador Retriever can be yellow (pale yellow to dark golden color), chocolate (a rather light brown), or black (coal black). They have "heavy-duty" paws with some webbing in between, making them perfect for swimming.

Labradors are bred for different things, and from this their build is determined: the field-working Labs are smaller and lighter in build than the more stocky show-dogs. Most companion Labs are almost in between. The Lab needs exercise, but very little if any grooming.

The Lab is quite active and energetic at times, and needs to be disciplined gently but firmly. A good suggestion is to start leash-training them while they are young so that they do not become pullers as adults.

Over all, the Lab is a dog of beauty and dignity. They can produce great companions when crossed with Golden Retrievers, as well as being the perfect dog themselves.