The ancestors of the English Labrador were originally bred for companionship and the show circuit. These sturdy dogs are known for their broad muzzle, wide head, floppy ears, and strong barrel chest. They sport a distinctive otter tail that stands out boldly, along with thick double coats in black, chocolate, or yellow. While most English Labs have traditional solid coats, there can be variations in color due to genetic factors and selective breeding. Initially, all Labradors were bred for fieldwork, specifically to retrieve game and assist their owners. Over time, they evolved into distinct types, with English Labs being more suitable for the show ring and family environments. Their intense hunting instincts were toned down to a more manageable level, though their friendly demeanor towards people and other animals remains strong. The division of types within the Labrador breed raises questions about their namesake and what sets them apart. Along with discussing their typical characteristics and traits, it’s important to consider the health and training needs of these dogs. When it comes to English Lab puppies, they exhibit glimpses of their working heritage while also possessing unique personalities and builds. In conclusion, English Labradors retain their intelligent nature and reliable working traits, while having their distinct charm and traits that make them stand out in the canine world.
The Allure of the English Labrador As someone who loves sporting dogs and has raised multiple American Labradors, I can appreciate the charm of the English Lab with its timeless and attractive features. Like some other Lab owners, I have introduced English Lab lines into my life and have had the joy of sharing my days with a lovely English chocolate Lab for quite some time now. In this article, I will delve into the distinctions between the American and English Lab, drawing from my personal experiences living and training both breeds of Labrador Retriever. I will also provide a comprehensive guide on acquiring and caring for your first English Labrador, along with showcasing some of my favorite images of English Labs. Feel free to leave a comment on this article, or share photos of your English Lab on our forum or Facebook page. We would love to see your furry friends!
Labrador Retrievers come in two distinct variations around the globe – English and American Labs. The English Labs are known for their exceptional qualities as loving family pets, while the American Labs are prized for their athleticism and hunting prowess. This divergence in the breed can be seen in various countries, not just limited to the United States.
How Labradors Diverged into English and American Varieties Due to the frequent breeding cycles of dogs, the effects of selective breeding are apparent rather quickly. In the latter part of the 20th century, dog shows gained popularity, leading to the breeding of multiple Labrador generations that never had to work as retrievers. With time, breeding for show purposes led to exaggerations in physical characteristics becoming prevalent. Certain looks became trendy, resulting in heavier bodies, larger heads, and shorter legs being favored and established. Concurrently, those involved in field trials began breeding dogs specifically for competitions rather than just as hunting partners. In both the US and the UK, Labradors in the field trial community were bred to excel in competitions to earn the title of Field Trial Champion, leading to lucrative stud fees. In field trials, qualities such as speed and drive were prioritized over steadiness and endurance, with appearance playing a minimal role. Therefore, American Labs were selected for their retrieving and marking abilities, athleticism, and speed, with little emphasis on their appearance. The split between English and American Labs occurred relatively quickly in history and was largely completed within five decades. While not all Labradors fit extreme examples of either type, you can find moderate examples like the black English Lab in American Lab lines as well.
However, it has been quite some time since we have witnessed a Labrador attain dual champion status, excelling both in the show ring and out in the field. The term “English Labrador” may be a bit misleading for some, especially our readers in Europe. In the United States, most English Labs are just as American as their counterparts. The distinction between the two types of Labrador lies in their intended roles as pets or hunting partners. In England, the English Lab is referred to as a Show or Bench Labrador, while in the United States, it is commonly known as an American Lab. On the other hand, the working or field-bred Lab in Britain is considered the American Lab, if born in America. Essentially, the names are simply a matter of geographical origin and do not significantly impact the breed itself.
The origins of English Labrador Retrievers can be traced back to Newfoundland where English settlers brought their hunting and fishing companions from England. Despite their working background, all Labradors can be considered “English.” The breed’s history is intriguing, with a split between English and American labs occurring in the twentieth century as Labs gained popularity as pets. Until the 1940s, Labradors were of one strain and type, based on their role as working retrievers. However, the breed experienced a division as two different types of breeders emerged, resulting in two distinct strains of dogs. English Labs are characterized by their broad, chiseled heads and thick otter tails. A defining feature of English Labs is their large, heavier heads compared to American Labs, which often have narrower skulls with less pronounced stops. English Labs have kind, widely set eyes in their broad skulls, while American Labs may have eyes that are slightly closer together.
Body Structure As we move from the head to the tail of this beautiful canine, the overall physique remains a key aspect. The neck is sturdy and well-proportioned to the head, the chest is broad and deep, and the hindquarters are muscular and powerful. Of course, let’s not forget about the iconic tail that gracefully sweeps downward behind him, a feature that many of us adore. In comparison, the American Labrador often appears leaner and more narrow when viewed from the front, giving off an impression of a dog designed for speed and agility, in addition to strength and power. Do English Labs Have Shorter Legs? The English Labrador’s deep and broad chest might make it seem like they have shorter legs compared to the American variety. In some instances, this isn’t just a mere illusion, as some show line dogs are indeed slightly shorter in the leg, relative to their spine, when compared to working strain Labs. Distinctive Otter Tail of English Labs The thick otter tail tapering to a point may pose a risk to delicate items on your coffee table, but it’s undeniably a beautiful feature that enhances the Labrador’s appearance. On the other hand, some American Labs seem to have done away with the otter tail altogether, sporting a more slender appendage with a curved or upward sweep instead of the low carriage seen in show bred Labs. These characteristics set apart the English Lab from its working strain and American counterparts: – Broad head and neck with strong features – Deep broad chest and slightly shorter legs – Thick tapering tail carried low Overall, the show bred English Labrador tends to be a more robust and cuddly dog compared to the lab bred for hunting purposes. Their stocky and chunky appearance is particularly appealing to many people. The Coat of English Labradors Given their history of being bred to endure the icy waters of Newfoundland, it’s no surprise that English Labradors are equipped with a remarkable waterproof double coat. Even though they may not be required to swim in freezing temperatures today, show labs have managed to retain their exceptional coats. However, some working lines of Labradors have lost this thick coat over time.
English Labrador Retrievers are known for their thick, warm double coat. Not all American Labs have the same double coat that is common in show ring Labs. The difference in coat can be a bit surprising, especially considering that working dogs typically have a thicker coat. However, this difference can be explained when we look at the origins of American Labs and their breeding history. One factor that sets show line Labs apart is their weight. These Labs tend to be heavier than their American counterparts, starting from puppyhood all the way to adulthood. If you’re raising an English Lab puppy, it’s important to be aware that they may fall on the higher end of the weight range. When it comes to temperament, English and American Labs have some differences, though they are not always clearly defined. Both are known for being friendly and kind-natured dogs. However, English Labs may exhibit less energy and drive when outdoors. They are not as restless and eager to hunt, which can make them easier to manage in some situations.
On the flip side, English Labs are known to be more playful and easily distracted compared to their American counterparts. They may prefer socializing with other dogs rather than fetching a ball for you, which can sometimes make them a bit more challenging to manage. American Labs, on the other hand, are known for their tenacity, athleticism, and strong hunting instincts. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation through training to thrive and be well-behaved companions at home. If not given enough activity, they can become restless and engage in destructive behaviors. In contrast, English Labs tend to be more laid-back and can be content with less rigorous exercise. While they may have a playful streak when young, they often mature into affectionate and calm dogs. Differences between English and American Lab puppies can be spotted by experienced breeders or Labrador enthusiasts at an early age. Each type has unique traits that set them apart, making them lovable companions in their own ways.
The puppy on the left has a genetic mix of 75% English Lab and 25% American Lab, while the puppy on the right is a pure American Lab. You can tell by looking at their features – the American Lab puppy has a slimmer face with bigger eyes and ears compared to her skull. If it weren’t for some working genes in the chocolate puppy, the contrast between the two would be more noticeable.
English Labradors: Full Grown and Full of Personality As they’ve grown older, my English Labradors have developed distinct personalities that never fail to make me laugh. The differences between these two dogs go beyond just their appearances. Tess, the yellow Lab, exhibits focus and sensitivity typical of Labs from working backgrounds. She exudes confidence and finds everything fun and exciting. Tess is highly attuned to people’s needs and has an exceptional work ethic, making her an ideal working dog. In contrast, Rachael is even more sensitive, easily distracted, and intensely playful. She struggles with confidence in challenging situations and finds it hard to relax at home. While she’s a keen retriever, channeling that energy effectively has been a challenge. It’s common to expect personality variations among Labs of the same breed, but the distractibility and playfulness of English Labs compared to American Labs often spark conversations. English Lab Coat Colors English Labs typically come in three main colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. Yellow Labs can range from pale cream to deep golden hues, with working lines tending to produce richer, darker shades like fox-red. The paler yellows and creams are more common in show lines. Silver English Labs Silver Labs, a controversial color variation, result from a gene that dilutes the chocolate coat. Despite being registered as “chocolate” by the AKC, silver Labs are less prevalent among English Labs due to the color not being recognized in show rings. Breeders focused on dog shows generally shun silver Labs, preferring traditional coat colors. Grooming Your English Lab Fortunately, English Labs are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their nearly dirt-resistant coats make it easy to manage their active lifestyle, requiring baths only when necessary. Regular grooming with a brush can enhance their coats and provide a soothing massage experience for them. English Lab Health While Labradors, including English Labs, are prone to genetic health issues, early detection through health testing can help prevent many conditions. Joint problems, eye disorders, cancer, and diabetes are common health concerns in Labradors, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups and care. Training Your English Lab Known for their trainability, English Labradors excel in service roles and obedience. To bring out the best in your Lab, consider modern force-free training methods and seek professional support when needed. Patience is key, especially during the puppy and adolescent stages, where Labs can be energetic and social. Choosing an English Lab When considering an English Lab as a pet or working companion, factor in their sociable nature, need for companionship, and training requirements. While English Labs may be less suited for high-level training or hunting compared to American Labs, they can still excel in various roles with the right care and training. Ultimately, choosing between an American or English Lab depends on your lifestyle and preferences.
English Labrador Retrievers are ideal family pets due to their friendly and loyal nature. If you’re looking for a classic English Lab with a sturdy build and distinctive otter tail, it’s best to seek out breeders who specialize in English lines. These breeders typically showcase their dogs in the show ring, with some boasting titles like SH CH (show champion). On the other hand, American Labs are more likely to have titles such as FTCH (field trial champion), reflecting their focus on field trials. Regardless of whether you opt for an English or American Lab, finding a reputable breeder is crucial. The future of the English Lab remains a topic of interest in the retriever community, with some aiming for a return to the traditional English Lab appearance. While there are individuals training English Labs for field work, they are still relatively rare compared to those focusing on show competitions. It seems that the distinction between English and American Labs will persist, with English Labs maintaining their unique characteristics separate from their American counterparts. Whichever type of Labrador you choose, you’re sure to have a fantastic companion by your side for years to come.
