The popular and personable Labrador Retriever was developed in Newfoundland to be an assistant to fisherman, helping them haul in nets and retrieve escaped fish. Ensuing crosses with Setters, Spaniels, and other retrieving breeds resulted in the intelligent, trainable, and extremely versatile breed we know today. In addition to fulfilling its esteemed roles as a hunting cohort and family pet, the Labrador Retriever excels in a wide range of helpful activities that include guiding the blind, search and rescue, and narcotics detection. Their sporting nature, balanced and cheerful personality, and aptitude for learning make them ideal family pets that are happy to participate in a wide range of activities. Their double coats come in three colors – yellow, black, and chocolate – and shed seasonally so regular brushing will keep them looking good and will also help to maintain their coats’ water resistant properties.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
