Are Labradors actually from Labrador?

Rather confusingly, not exactly. The breed’s roots lie on the neighbouring Canadian island of Newfoundland, where the smaller St John’s water dogs worked alongside fishermen. Dogs taken to Britain in the 19th century were refined into the Labrador Retriever we know today.

Why do Labradors love water so much?

They were bred to work in and around cold water. Their dense coat helps repel water, their broad “otter tail” acts rather like a rudder, and their retrieving instinct made them invaluable to fishermen and later to shooting parties.

What colours do Labradors come in?

The recognised Labrador colours are black, yellow and chocolate. Yellow can range from pale cream to a much deeper fox-red shade, while chocolate can vary from lighter to richer brown.

Why are Labradors used as guide and assistance dogs?

Labradors combine trainability with a strong desire to work closely with people. Those qualities have made them enormously successful as guide dogs, assistance dogs, detection dogs and search-and-rescue dogs as well as much-loved family companions.

Who was Endal, the famous Labrador?

Endal was a remarkable British assistance Labrador partnered with Gulf War veteran Allen Parton. He could respond to more than 100 commands and famously helped Allen after he was knocked unconscious from his wheelchair, placing him in the recovery position and going for help. Endal received the PDSA Gold Medal for his devotion.

Our Labrador gifts and homeware celebrate everything from that unmistakable retrieving instinct to the breed’s wonderfully companionable character. Explore more breeds in our Dog Gifts by Breed collection.