History of the Labrador Retriever Breed

The Labrador Retriever is a large, lovable and playful dog with a rich history as a service dog in both Europe and North America. Contrary to popular belief, they did not originate in Canada's Labrador, but instead this strong and sturdy dog has its roots nearby in Newfoundland. They were eventually imported to Great Britain in the 19th century where they were beloved and bred, allowing them to thrive.

  1. St. John's Water Dogs

    • The breed was originally known as the St. John's Water Dog, as they came from the St. John's area of Newfoundland. There is some mystery as to where the name Labrador came from. Some believe the name may come from Portugal as the word "Labrador" means laborer in Portuguese. And these dogs were indeed laborers, as they worked with the fisherman of Newfoundland pulling in fishing lines as well as fish. Their history as a hard worker is still evident today as they are helpful and eager to please.

    British Imports

    • The Duke of Malmesbury is reportedly the first to start calling these dogs Labradors and the name became standard in the 1860s. In England, they thrived as hunter dogs rather than water dogs and became popular among the British aristocracy. However, back in Newfoundland the breed began to die out when laws limited families to only one dog and heavy taxes were placed on them in the late 1880s.

    Breeding

    • During the late 19th century, Labradors became so popular among the British gentry that there was a full-scale breeding program was soon underway. The breeding produced both chocolate and yellow Labs and and early in the early 1900s these dogs were imported back to North America, gaining popularity in the United States.

    Pure Breds

    • Although many Labrador Retrievers were interbred, pure-bred standards were created in the 1890s, and they were finally recognized as an official breed by the English Kennel Club in 1903. In 1917, they were recognized by the American Kennel Club, with their greatest influx to the US being in the 1920s and 1930s. In 1941, the National Retriever Club was established in the United States and after World War II Labs started gaining stature as the popular domestic pets they are today.