Labrador Retrievers are one of several kinds of retriever.
Labradors are relatively large (males weighing 60-80 lbs (27-36 kg), females: 50-70 lbs (23-32kg)), energetic dogs, and are either black, yellow, or brown (called "chocolate") in color, in that order of frequency. The color is determined by two sets of genes - one determining coat color (black and yellow) and the other determining nose color (black and pink/brown). The black coat gene is dominant in both cases. Chocolate Labs are the result of the black coat color gene and a pink/brown nose color gene. Yellow Labs vary in color from white to light gold to a fox red. Their fur is usually fairly short and straight, and the tail quite broad and strong. The otter-like tail and webbed toes of the Labrador Retriever make him an excellent swimmer.
There are two types of Labrador Retrievers, the English and the America stock. English Labs are shorter and stockier than their American counterparts. No distinction is made by the AKC, but the two classification come from different breeding.
Labradors are a well-balanced breed, adaptable to a wide range of functions as well as making very good pets. Labradors were bred in the United Kingdom in the mid-1800s, as hunting dogs, from dogs imported from Labrador and Newfoundland. As the name suggests, they are excellent at retrieving game, such as ducks, after the game has been shot. Their coat repels water to some extent, thus the extensive use of the dog in waterfowl hunting.
Labradors have a reputation as a mellow breed, but some lines (particularly those that have continued to be bred specifically for their skills at working in the field rather than for their appearance) are particularly fast and athletic. Most Labs enjoy retrieving a ball endlessly and other forms of activity, such as dog agility or flyball.
The steady temperament of Labs and their ability to learn quickly make them an ideal breed for assistance dogs.