The British Labrador
There are many adjectives you can use to describe the British Labrador; gentle, loving, energetic, athletic, intelligent, funny, and obedient just to name a few. Above all else if you own a British Lab then you know that they own you. They can steal your heart with one soulful glance from their beautiful brown eyes. Then they earn your respect when you put them to work. It’s easy to understand why this lovable and versatile dog has earned the title of best all-round dog in the world.
The Labrador is an ideal family dog. His gentle nature makes him a wonderful addition to a house with small children and other pets. Their intelligence, obedience and athleticism make them a well-rounded working dog capable of serving in many capacities from Service dog to Police dog. Their ability to track by scent is extraordinary and it is no surprise that Labradors are sought after by bomb disposal teams, customs and excise authorities and those engaged in sports where scent is involved.
Despite their popularity both as a companion and as a service dog, the Labrador is first and foremost a retriever. In their role as a retriever they are required to remain at their owner’s side until sent to retrieve the prey that has been shot. Seeing the Labrador in their natural environment evokes a deep sense of pride and awe. Watching their intense gaze, absolute focus, with muscles tensed with readiness to launch into the wild when given the command. They drive forward, eager to retrieve, and deliver gently to their owner’s hand. That is the British Labrador.
Physical Characteristics
Labrador Retrievers are medium to large dogs with a powerful and well balanced build. The build and balance of this dog enables them to function as hunters, retrievers and great playmates for long periods of time and in difficult conditions such as icy water.
The undercoat on this breed is soft and dense while the outer coat is straight and lies close to the body. It is not unusual for Labrador Retrievers to have a bit of a wave to the coat going down the center of the back. The coat should not feel either coarse or silky to the touch.
British Labradors are commonly Black, Yellow or Fox Red and are usually a single color all over. However it is not unusual for a Lab to have a white spot on the chest.
- Strong build
- Excellent endurance
- Compact-short backs which are muscular
- Good depth of rib
- Powerful hindquarters
- Heads are moderately square without undue length
- Well-defined stops
- Flat ears
Temperament
Having attained a score of 92.3% on the American Temperament Test Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly and outgoing, energetic, free-spirited and enthusiastic, eager to please and highly trainable. A Labrador Retriever should never show any indication of being either shy or aggressive. Labs are also very tolerant of the antics and behavior of both children and other pets.
The temperament of this dog makes them a truly ideal companion for almost any person or family. They are capable and willing to be a compliant house pet, active outdoor playmate, and serious hunter or retriever all in the same day.
Hunting Ability
British Labradors are bred for strong hunting and scenting abilities as well as a calm temperament. The British Labrador's scenting ability is extraordinary and far superior to other breeds. They are exceptional upland game bird dogs and strong swimmers, making them excellent waterfowl dogs as well. Considered a “gentleman’s dog,” British Labradors are easy to train and, once trained, become an exceptional hunting companion.
