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"A moment later the stevedore appeared on deck leading by a leash one of the most handsome dogs ever seen in Maryland. He was jet-black, sturdy in his front quarters, sleek and powerful in his hind, with a face so intelligent that it seemed he might speak at any moment. His movements were quick, his dark eyes following every development nearby, yet his disposition appeared so equable he seemed always about to smile.

"'He's called a Labrador,' Lightfoot said. 'Finest huntin' dog ever developed'"

from Chesapeake by James Michener*

If you are a dog lover or someone that just watches people and their dogs, chances are the breed you see the most of is the Labrador Retriever. This large, powerful looking yet gentle dog has been the most popular breed in the United States over the last fifteen years and can be seen as family pets, guide or assistance dogs, hunting companions or in competitive shows and trials. In 2005 alone, more than 137,000 Labs were registered with the American Kennel Club.

The Labrador Retriever is thought to have been originally developed in Newfoundland from where it made its way to England with fisherman that worked the eastern Canadian coast. It was named Labrador to distinguish it from the Newfoundland , a larger and heavy coated breed. Labs were prized for their versatility and ability to rescue drifting fishing nets and retrieve downed waterfowl. Their sensitive nose soon made them popular as hunting dogs and were recognized as such.

Labs have an easy, anxious to please temperament, a gentle disposition and are excellent with children. This is a very active breed that does require regular exercise and play and are happiest when they have some kind of task to perform. Labs are well known as easy to train and calm tempered which makes them an excellent family dog.

A large dog, Labs have a deep chest, large nostrils on a blocky head with drop ears, an otter-like tail that can pose a danger to low lying nick-knacks and a short, dense, water repellent coat. Adults average between 60 and 80 pounds and 21 to 25 inches high at the withers. Wide jaws and muzzles make them capable of retrieving even large waterfowl such as Canadian Geese. The coat is very short and dense and has a natural protective oil that repels water and keeps them warm in cold and wet conditions. You will find them in jet black, chocolate brown or varying shades from pale yellow to russet. They do shed more than someone might expect and should be brushed at least weekly.

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