Unchallenged for more than a decade, the Labrador Retriever remains America’s top dog, far surpassing any other breed in the number of pups registered annually by the American Kennel Club. The lab is also number one in popularity in the United Kingdom and in Canada.

Labs come in three colors, yellow, black and chocolate and are seen as a kind of “everyday dog” and the perfect family pet. Most people incorrectly assume that the Lab comes from Labrador when in fact this lovable dog originates from Newfoundland. The actual name though may come from the Labrador Current found nearby or perhaps from the Portuguese word ‘labrador’ meaning ‘laborer.’

The Lab’s versatility, stamina and eagerness to please has made it the perfect companion. Fishermen would take the Lab in their boats to retrieve fish that escaped from the nets, landowners would use them for hunting parties and as companions. Today, Labs are frequently used as hunting dogs as well as service dogs for all kinds of needs from guide dogs for the blind to cadaver and bomb detecting dogs.

Labradors have the unique ability to be playmates as well as workers. Their sweet and goofy natures make them the ideal family pet, but despite their multiple advantages the Lab is not ideally suitable for everybody. It is a highly energetic breed that requires regular exercise and activity. Fiercely loyal, the Lab yearns for company and to constantly be a part of the family. This is not a breed that you can just throw out into the back yard and expect him to entertain himself without digging, chewing, barking or being otherwise destructive. Labs want to be with you and often experience separation anxiety. But the Lab’s eager-to-please and intelligent nature makes them easy to train.

Once a particular breed gains a strong foothold in popularity as the Lab has, several factors can spur it on. It helps when the dog has a lovely temperament like the Lab, but as more families opt for a specific breed, dog breeders respond by increasing the number of litters their dogs produce. Unfortunately, because of the excessive breeding industry in the U.S., disreputable puppy producers can rush to breed trendy dogs without much regard for the animal’s health. This has already been a problem with Labs, which often suffer arthritic hips due to inbreeding.

If you are interested in adding one of these fun and chew-happy-go-lucky dogs to your family please do not buy from a pet store as they are known to be supplied by puppy mills. If you really want a puppy (and one that stays puppy-like for up to two years), go to a reputable breeder that is AKC certified and ask to see the parents. Better yet, why not consider adopting from your local animal shelter? At the Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter, Labs of all ages are a staple, any size or color. They’re usually great dogs that just didn’t get a fair chance. Labrador Retrievers, while not perfect for everyone, are some of the most versatile and loving dogs. If you find a place for them in your home, they will be devoted to you and your family for life.