History and Origins of the Labrador Retriever

History and Origins of the Labrador Retriever

The History and Origins of the Labrador Retriever is really interesting. The history of the Labrador Retriever began where the breed, then known as the 'St John's Dog' was developed in Newfoundland, east of Canada and used to assist fishermen in retrieving the net and any fish that had escaped. The Labrador Retriever is an energetic dog that takes well to water and has a water-resistant coat.  This breed is highly trainable, it's very intelligent, extremely loyal and protects and cares for its master to the full. This is a very popular guide dog for the blind as its gentle, well-balanced and sweet temperament coupled with its intelligence, its awareness and ability to carry out commands, enables the dog to effectively care for the guidance requirements of its owner. The Labrador Retriever is used for other important working roles such as assisting with search-and-rescue teams and narcotics detection with law enforcement.

History and Origins - How the Labrador Retriever got its name

The history and origins of the Labrador Retriever continues with how the dog got his name! English ships came from an area of Newfoundland known as Labrador, hence the name of the breed. The ships were carrying the Labrador Retriever and arrived in England in the 1800s. The English breeders developed the breed further to enhance their hunting abilities, they did this through crossing the Labrador Retriever with spaniels, setters and other retrievers. The Labrador Retriever was developed to hunt game and it has high retrieving skills and abilities. This breed has such an appealing temperament and personality that it is one of the most popular family pets throughout America. The American Kennel Club recognised the breed officially in 1917. The breed is also known as the Lab, and the Chocolate/Yellow/Black/Silver Labrador Retriever.

History and Origins of the Labrador Retriever