The origin of the Labrador Retriever is one that is slightly unclear. Most researchers contend that the first Labrador Retrievers were found in Newfoundland, which was settled by the Dorset Eskimos. The island was later settled by fishermen and European traders, who admired the skill and temperament of the Labrador Retriever. This breed was especially useful to the fishermen because of the strong swimming abilities of the Lab. Fishermen carried Labrador Retrievers with them until the 1920's to retrieve the fish that came off the trawl.

The Labrador Retriever also became a friend to the English sportsmen who also appreciated the disposition and grace of the breed. 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. Above all, a Labrador Retriever must be well balanced, enabling it to move in the show ring or work in the field with little or no effort. The typical Labrador possesses style and quality without over refinement, and substance without lumber or cloddiness. The Labrador is bred primarily as a working gun dog; structure and soundness are of great importance.

Note: This Information is an Excerpt from: The American Kennel Club