The Labrador Retriever reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Apr-2004
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Labrador Retriever

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Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever
()
Country of origin
Canada
Classification
FCI:Group 8 Section 1
AKC:Sporting
ANKC:Sporting
CKC:Group 1 - Sporting Dogs
KC(UK):Gundog
NZKC:Gundog
Breed standards (external links)
FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC

The Labrador Retriever, one of the most familiar breeds of dog, is noted for its friendliness, intelligence (though they don't often show it) and obedience. Because of these traits, they are often trained to be assistance dogs, such as service dogs or guide dogs. Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed of dog (by registered ownership) in both the United States and United Kingdom.

Black Labrador Retriever AdultEnlarge

Black Labrador Retriever Adult

Labradors are relatively large, energetic dogs, and they are either black, yellow, or brown in colour, in that order of frequency. The color is determined by two sets of genes; one determining coat color (black and yellow) and the other determining nose color (black and pink/brown). The black coat gene is dominant in both cases. Chocolate labs are the result of a black coat color gene and a pink/brown nose color gene.

Labradors were bred in the United Kingdom in the mid-1800s as hunting dogs. As per the name, they are excellent at retrieving game, such as ducks, after the game has been shot. Their coat repels water to some extent, thus the extensive use of the dog in waterfowl hunting.

Black Labrador PuppyEnlarge

Black Labrador Puppy

Golden labrador - portraitEnlarge

Golden labrador - portrait

Golden labrador - profileEnlarge

Golden labrador - profile