Labrador retrievers originated in newfoundland in the 1500s, they were bred to become water dogs. With their short coat and webbed paws they made a wonderful additional to fishing boats. Labs were used for pulling in fish that fell off hooks or nets filled with fish.  The breed stayed exclusively in Newfoundland until the 1800’s until they were imported into England and were later recognized in 1903 by the English kennel club. Once in England many people began to use then for hunting and shooting. By the 1900’s Labs were incorporated into American farmers everyday lives, and in 1917 the American Kennel Club recognized the breed. As time went on these loving pups began to get recognized for their wonderful temperament and their patience with children and were a staple in many family homes. Labs typically range from 55-80lbs and come in  Black, Yellow, and Chocolate. Labs are great hunting buddies and can sprint up to 12mph  in only 12 seconds! Labs make up 70% of Americas guide dogs according to The guide dogs of America. To top it all of a black Labrador named Bosco was even elected mayor. According to the American Kennel Club, Labs are America’s favorite breed. The breed has taken the top spot in AKC’s rankings of most popular breeds for 28 years in a row, this is the the longest reign of any breed in AKC history.