ABOUT LABRADORS
A BELOVED COMPANION
The Labrador Retriever has a rich history rooted in the early 19th century. Originally bred in Newfoundland, they were known as ‘St. John’s dogs’ and served alongside fishermen. These loyal and intelligent dogs were prized for their strong retrieving instincts, quickly becoming affectionate family pets.
As the breed gained popularity, they were introduced to the English nobility and refined into the friendly Labs we know today. Their playful spirit and gentle nature make them ideal companions for families and individuals alike, celebrated for their loyalty and love.
Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and intelligence, making them easy to train and a joy to live with. They thrive in active households where they can engage in play and exercise, and their gentle nature makes them great with kids and other pets. Adopting a Labrador means welcoming a furry partner who will support your family with unwavering affection.
Whether you need a loyal friend, a playful playmate, or an able assistance dog, a Labrador is always ready to meet your needs with a wagging tail!
American Lab, English Lab, British Lab?
In summary, American labs are the athletic bird dogs, English labs are the stockier show dogs, and the British labs are specifically bred in the UK for field work. But according to the American Kennel Club, a lab is a lab is a lab. So, on paper there’s just one breed of Labrador Retriever. But in reality, there are distinct and obvious differences among the three labrador subcategories. Why is that? Well, over the last century, breeders have selectively bred labradors to suit their particular niche. English labs were bred to meet the demands of the showring, and the American and British labs were bred for field work. Overtime, the selective evolution evoked the different physical traits we’ve come to know and love.
If Labrador Retrievers were characters in a movie, American Labs would be the action heroes — lean, athletic, always ready to scale a mountain or dive into a lake for a tennis ball. These dogs are built like sprinters, with longer legs, narrower heads, and a boundless supply of energy. Think of them as the Labrador version of an over-caffeinated personal trainer who thinks a 5 a.m. jog is “fun.”
Then you’ve got English Labs — not to be confused with British Labs (we’ll get to that plot twist in a moment). English Labs are the sturdy gentlemen (and ladies) of the Labrador world. They’ve got broad chests, blocky heads, and a chill vibe that screams, “I was bred for the show ring and naps on expensive rugs.” These Labs are more likely to sit patiently while toddlers climb them than chase squirrels into the next county. All comedy aside, English Labs can be excellent workers, but they may tire out before their shift ends.
Now, enter the British Lab — not just a fancy name for the English Lab, despite what it sounds like. British Labs are working dogs bred in the UK, known for their calm demeanor, sharp minds, and excellent manners. They’re like James Bond with fur — sleek, composed, and laser-focused when it’s time to retrieve. British Labs tend to be slimmer than English Labs but less high-strung than American ones, making them the middle ground with a charming accent (in spirit, at least).
English Labrador
English Labs, or “show-bred” labs, typically have a stockier build, blockier head, and shorter snout than American counterparts. They are bred for the show ring for their astonishingly good looks
American Labrador
American labs are mostly bred as working dogs for their athleticism. Though not immune to obesity, they generally have a slender build, narrower head, and longer snout than English labs.
Labrador Care Tips
You should groom your Labrador at least once a week. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps their coat shiny. During shedding season, you might need to brush them more often.
Your Labrador should have a balanced diet with high-quality dog food. Look for foods rich in protein and nutrients suitable for their age. And remember to adjust their portions to prevent overeating.
Labradors are active dogs and need at least an hour of exercise each day. Regular walks, playtime, and swimming are great ways to keep them healthy and happy. Our dogs in particular are bred for work and will want a bit more exercise than most other labs. Access to a pool is ideal.
While we perform extensive health screening on our dams and sires and closely monitor every puppy’s health, Labradors can still be prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, joint issues, obesity, and eye conditions. Regular vet check-ups are essential to catch and address any potential problems early.
We partner with our puppy parents on a training program for basic obedience and for hunting. Training your Labrador should start early with basic commands and socialization. Consistency is key! Consistent positive reinforcement works best. Keep training sessions short, fun, and full of praise!