The Labrador Retriever originated in the early 19th century in Newfoundland, which is now part of Canada. Despite the name “Labrador,” the breed actually developed from a type of working dog known as the St. John’s Dog (or Lesser Newfoundland), which was used by fishermen in Newfoundland.
Key Points in the Labrador Retriever’s Origin
St. John’s Dog ancestry: These dogs were strong swimmers and were used by fishermen to retrieve fishing nets and catch that escaped from fishing lines.
British influence: In the early 1800s, some of these dogs were brought to England, especially to the county of Devon, where British aristocrats recognized their utility for hunting and began selectively breeding them.
Refinement in England: The breed was refined in Britain, particularly by the 2nd Earl of Malmesbury, the 4th and 5th Dukes of Buccleuch, and the 10th Earl of Home, who worked together to establish the foundation of what we now recognize as the modern Labrador Retriever.
Name origin: They were eventually named “Labrador Retrievers” in England, likely as a geographic misnomer related to the Labrador Sea, even though their roots are more directly from Newfoundland.
Official Recognition
The Kennel Club (UK) recognized the breed in 1903.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized them in 1917.
Today, Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, known for their friendly nature, intelligence, and versatility in roles such as guide dogs, search-and-rescue, and detection work.