The Role of the Labrador Retriever in World History

Everyone knows that the Labrador Retriever is a beautiful, friendly animal; some may not realize, though, that this diverse canine has a rich history and fills many important roles in the lives of their owners.

Originally from Newfoundland, the Labrador Retriever comes by his/her strength honestly; at one point they were used as fishermen’s helpers, pulling nets and reeling in finned escapees from fishing lines. They became an equal friend to hunters through the years, facilitating their owners’ jobs by catching and bringing in game.

Also through the years, Labs have served far more peaceable purposes in the lives of the typical American family. Due to their even, friendly temperament, Labrador Retrievers are renowned as friends and companions whose loyalty and gentility are nearly unmatched in the canine community.

A Lab is not only a popular pet but a frequent family friend; one sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. What pet owner wouldn’t love a dog who can keep up with them on a vigorous jog or in a Frisbee game, but who also will lick their child’s face and cheer him/her up after a less than stellar day at school?

Through the years, Labs also have come to serve a number of roles in their communities and in society as a whole. They have at various points served as drug dogs (i.e., assistants to narcotics officers), search and rescue animals, therapy aides and guide dogs.

Labrador Retrievers are beautiful, and good natured creatures, whether in their purebred state or when mixed with other breeds (when you breed a Lab with a poodle, for example, you get the too cute to be believed Labradoodle). Perhaps that is why they have been immortalized on the silver screen, appearing in films like the stirring adventure “Gold Retrievers” with Steve Guttenberg. And the Lab was the focus of the 2000 documentary “Everything You Need to Know: Labrador Retriever.”

It’s little wonder, then, that—according to American Kennel Club statistics—the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the United States. Yet the best way to experience the magic of the Lab is to own one yourself; make the Labrador Retriever a part of your family today!