Gundogs Group - Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever arrived in Britain in the 1830s with Newfoundland fishermen who used the dogs to help them land their nets. One of the most popular dogs, it is a first-class gundog, a fine swimmer, and also works as a guide dog for sight-impaired people.

Coat: Short and dense, without wave or feathering; weather-resistant undercoat.

Color: Wholly bl ack, yellow, or liver/chocolate; yellows range from light cream to red fox; small white spot on the chest is permissible.

Features: Head broad with defined stop; medium-size eyes; cars not large or heavy; chest of good width and depth; distinctive "otter" tail.

Size: Shoulder height: dogs 22½ - 24½ in, bitches 21½ - 23½ in. Weight: dogs 60-75 lb, bitches 55-70 lb.

Care: Needs plenty of exercise and regular brushing. It can be kept indoors as a family pet or in an outdoor kennel.

Character: Exuberant, but easy to train, the Labrador is good with children.