Breed of the Month
Labrador Retriever
Of course we have to begin breed of the month with the most popular dog in Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. But where did they come from and why are they so popular?
Labradors have become a split breed. By that we mean that there are working or field strains, which tend to be smaller, more nimble and energetic, and show strains which can, if exercise is neglected, very quickly run to fat. They love to eat and will keep eating as long as you can keep feeding, which is why owners need to control their diet properly.
Origins
Originating in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador in eastern Canada, the origin of the breed was in the St John’s water dog, which were all black with white chest markings and worked by hauling nets of fish back to fishing boats. The St John’s became extinct in Canada in the 1980s, having declined during the previous century as a result of Canadian taxes on dogs and British quarantine laws that were introduced to eliminate rabies.
Earlier cross-breeding in England resulted in the modern Labrador Retriever, which continue their working history as gun dogs, assistance dogs and even water rescue dogs.
The St John’s has also contributed to the Flat Coated Retriever, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever and the Golden Retriever, so it’s no surprise that similarities between the breeds are so noticeable.
The 1st and 2nd Earls of Malmesbury and the 5th and 6th Dukes of Buccleuch were responsible, in the 1800s, for the development of the breed we now know as the Labrador.
Breed recognition
Labrador Retrievers were first recognised by the Kennel Club of Great Britain in 1903 and have been close to our hearts ever since for their loyalty, steadfastness and do anything attitude.
Mainly, though, most of us like their affectionate nature and affinity for a cuddle.
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