Labrador Retriever Breed description: Character & Co

What is the origin of the Labrador Retriever

The history of the Labrador Retriever goes back several centuries. When great sailors like Christopher Columbus sailed the oceans and discovered new continents, they also arrived in Newfoundland on the eastern coast of Canada. The Italian Giovanni Caboto went down in history as its discoverer. Numerous settlers set out to find their fortune in the New World. They brought along Bloodhounds, herding dogs, water dogs and Spaniels. Out of all these breeds the Newfoundland emerged, which developed into two lines. The smaller of them with a muscular build and short coat was especially popular in St. John's. According to tradition this could be the ancestor of the Labrador Retriever. Even back then they were successfully used for hunting. Finally the breed reached Great Britain, where breeding began in the second half of the 19th century. The breed was recognised by the British Kennel Club in 1903, and its name is derived from the island of Labrador, which is located next to Newfoundland. "Retriever" comes from the English word "retrieve", which indicates the excellent retrieving abilities of the animals.

What are the breed characteristics of Labrador Retriever

With a height of 57 centimetres for males and 56 centimetres for  bitches measured at the withers, the Labrador Retriever is among the medium-sized dog breeds. They reach a weight of 25 to 26 kilograms. Their body is muscular and compact, their head relatively broad. The high set tail, which tapers towards its tip, is also characteristic for them. This dog is bred in the colours yellow, brown and black. According to the breed standard the animals are supposed to be unicoloured, only a white spot on the chest is allowed. In general, you have the choice between two types: The show type is stronger and heavier, for the "Field Trial Line" slim and sporty animals are mated. They are ideal if you want to go hunting or do dog sports with them.