The Important Differences between American, English, and British Labradors

We all know that Labrador Retrievers come in three different colors - black, yellow, and chocolate. But did you know they also come in three different "types" - American, English, and the rarer British?

Well, they do, and before you pick out the Lab of your dreams, it might be a great idea to educate yourself on the differences in the types. They're important, and choosing the right style for your family will help make the match perfect.

How It All Began

The originallabrador retriever

The Labrador Retriever was developed in Newfoundland to help early settlers hunt and fish in the cold, northern climate. There was only one type of dog.

This was the case until around the 1940s, when showing dogs became more popular. Two types of Labradors were then bred for.

The traditional Lab continued to be developed for its working abilities. They have more energy and more drive, and they have a slimmer build that enables them to be more agile. This type of Lab is called the American. They excel at hunting and taking part in field trials.

The new Lab in town was developed from the traditional and bred for appearance and to excel in the show ring - these are known as English Labs and are not particularly bred for work.

The British Lab is somewhere in-between!

Let's dig a little deeper to find out more!

The Athletic American Labrdor retriever

Gunny is a good example of an American style lab

If you're looking for a working Labrador, look no further than the American. They were specifically bred to hunt and later to perform well in field trials. It's worth noting that a A good American lab will have Field Trial Champions in his pedigree.

Even though English and British Labradors can do well as working dogs, the American lines are Olympians in that arena and performance-tested to excel.

So, what are the traits of a working wonder dog? If you look at the photo above, compared to an English Lab, you will see:

  • A slim body with a narrower head.
  • A longer, rangier, harder body.
  • Outstanding natural balance and athleticism.
  • More endurance and an excellent attitude towards accomplishing goals.
  • Higher energy.
  • Better at motion exercises and works well with handlers to accomplish complex tasks such as retrieving - and very sensitive to handler direction.
  • Tough dogs that run through briers and bush without thinking.
  • Not smarter than English labs, but recognize patterns more quickly.
  • They are very active and constantly looking at their owners to do fun things with them. They live for activities such as kayaking, dummy retrieving, swimming, running after or riding four-wheelers, and more!
  • "On the go" dogs that will retrieve until they fall over. Owners must keep an eye on them so they don't overexert themselves.
  • Have trouble being still, and calm, attentive behavior and good manners need to be trained but they take very well to training.

    • The American Labrador retriever is best for an active and fit family. Or use the American Lab to be your highly successful hunting partner.

    The Picture-Perfect English Labrador

    English Labrador males Udonstar,s Magnum and son

    Roll out the red carpet for these gorgeous dogs. English Labradors are selected for their show-stopping looks to appear in movies and on TV ads. And they're definitely more likely to win an Oscar than master an Olympic sport!

    English Labradors were bred from the working Labrador lines to perform well in the show ring and dazzle us with their good looks!

    So how does the English Lab differ from the American?

  • English labs are also called Show Labradors, so their name gives us a clue!
  • They have a sturdier build than the other lines, with a heavier, blockier head, shorter, stubbier legs, bigger feet, broader chests, and squishier, cuddlier bodies. As a result, they're considered prettier than their working cousins and not usually performance-tested. It's a look that people just can't resist!
  • They're pretty chill, and after morning exercise or play, they're ready to lie down and rest.
  • They have more trouble with physically and mentally demanding activities. After a few rounds of retrieving, these regal dogs are happy to leave continued exercise to their working dog pals!
  • English Labradors are very food-oriented and are easily trained with treats. Show them something yummy to eat, and they'll put a lot of energy into getting that food, at least in the beginning stages of a training session.
  • While they're excited about food, they can't do many reps because their shorter, stockier physique makes it harder for them to deal with the heat.
  • They are calmer than the Americans with better manners and attention spans but have an off-switch and do not need as much exercise.

    • English labs are much better for less-active families or those that want everyone to compliment them on their dog's movie-star looks!

    The Lesser-Known British Labrador

    British Labrador female Udonstar,s Jojo

    You won't be surprised that British Lab lines are often confused with English Lab lines. Despite the name, British Labradors are actually European imports coming from European hunting lines. If you study their pedigrees, most of them come from Ireland, Scandinavia, and France. What do we know about the British Lab?

  • Their body shapes and temperament are between American and English lines.
  • However, they are working dogs bred more in line with the traditional Lab.
  • We value them for their excellent work ethics, intelligence, and good off switch.
  • They have a strong desire to hunt but are calmer like the English Labs and not highly strung.
  • Great gundogs - they're all about adventure but calm enough to be service dogs.
  • Some Labrador breeders proudly brag that they're "masters in the field but gentle in the house," which might be the best way to sum them up.

    • What All Labs Have In Common

    Labrador Retrievers are widely regarded to be the most popular dogs in the world. And it's easy to see why.

    Intelligent, funny, family-friendly, easily trainable, loving and loyal with an intense desire to please, although they have their differences, ALL Labs share these wonderful qualities.

    Of course, it's a trade-off when it comes to Labs. Each type is a Lab through and through, and the only differences lie in what they do best.

    People love English Labs because of how they look and don't need as much exercise. Hunters and active families will look to the American. The British might be perfect for others.

    Any Lab will enhance your life; you just need to find the one that best suits your pack!

    Silver labs

    Silver labs are often offered as something rare or special. Well' they are no labs! They are crosses between a lab and a weimaraner and should be sold as such. Not only is their coat different, so is their behavior and conformation. Well, weimaraners are nice dogs too but no one is marketing a labradoodle as purebred. On the east coast they are sold as "Georgian Bay Sporting Dog" or "Georgian Bay Retriever"