LABRADOR RETRIEVER
A loyal companion with a big heart and a love for retrieving
Breed Standards
Head:
The Labrador Retriever has a broad, well-proportioned skull with a clearly defined stop. The nose is strong with wide-open nostrils. The eyes are friendly and attentive, typically dark brown or hazel. Medium-sized ears lie close to the head, enhancing the breed’s characteristic gentle expression. The jaws and teeth are strong and functional.
Neck:
Strong and well-built, flowing smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders.
Body:
The body is compact and powerful. The chest is deep and broad, with a short, strong and well-muscled loin.
Tail:
Very thick at the base, tapering towards the tip and of medium length – the characteristic “otter tail”.
Coat:
Short, dense and weather-resistant, with a well-developed water-repellent undercoat.
Colours:
Black, yellow or chocolate. Yellow ranges from light cream to a rich fox-red shade. A small white spot on the chest is permissible.
Size:
Dogs: approx. 56–57 cm at the withers
Bitches: approx. 54–56 cm at the withers
Weight:
Depending on sex and build, approximately 25 to 40 kg.
History
The exact origins of the Labrador Retriever can no longer be traced with certainty. What is known, however, is that the breed’s development is closely linked to the island of Newfoundland. Early on, strong and resilient working dogs lived there, assisting fishermen in their daily tasks.
These dogs demonstrated remarkable abilities. They worked reliably in the water, retrieved objects from the waves, and even helped recover fish that had escaped. Their endurance, resistance to cold, and cooperative nature made them indispensable companions.
In the 18th century, living conditions on the island began to change. Restrictions on dog ownership led to a significant decline in the population. However, some of these dogs made their way to Great Britain with sailors, where their potential was quickly recognized.
English breeders began to further develop the dogs with intention, particularly training them for hunting. Through selective breeding, a highly capable retrieving dog emerged – eager to learn and closely bonded to humans. Their reliability in retrieving game quickly made them highly valued.
By the early 20th century, the Labrador Retriever was officially recognized as a distinct breed. In the decades that followed, it evolved not only into a skilled hunting dog but also into one of the most popular family and companion dogs worldwide.
