Breeding

Breeding  Labrador Retriever is the breeding of  a strongly built, medium-sized, short-coupled,
dog possessing a sound, athletic, well-balanced conformation that enables it to function as a
retrieving gun dog; the substance and soundness to hunt waterfowl or upland game for long
hours under difficult conditions; the character and quality to win in the show ring; and the
temperament to be a family companion. Physical features and mental characteristics should
denote a dog bred to perform as an efficient Retriever of game with a stable temperament
suitable for a variety of pursuits beyond the hunting environment.
The most distinguishing characteristics of the Labrador Retriever are its short, dense, weather
resistant coat; an “otter” tail; a clean-cut head with broad back skull and moderate stop; powerful
jaws; and its “kind,” friendly eyes, expressing character, intelligence and good temperament.
Above all, a Labrador Retriever must be well balanced, enabling it to move in the show ring or
work in the field with little or no effort. The typical Labrador possesses style and quality without
over refinement, and substance without lumber or cloddiness. The Labrador is bred primarily as
a working gun dog; structure and soundness are of great importance