What is a chunky Labrador

Wylanbriar Labradors

Types of Labradors Chunky or Lean?

Chunky or Slim Long legged or Stocky Show or Working American or English Small or large Narrow and Pointy or Broad head

The above are all common ways to think about Labradors. In reality the breed is diverse with very few stereotypical bodyshapes. The idea that all working bred dogs are lean and tall, and all showbred dogs are chunky and heavy boned is entirely untrue. It can sometimes very much surprise people when they look at their lean and leggy Labrador they considered from working lines that it is entirely from show or pet bred lines. In general however, dogs bred down working lines (sometimes called Field Trial lines) *tend to be slighter in build than from show lines. They tend to have less thickness of bone, less broadness of skull, basically are a little more streamlined because they were bred from lines which traditionally work hard in the field. Show lines tend to be what is thought of as the chunky Labradors

Working line or Field Trial type Labrador

Show line or chunky Labrador

Now the two examples above are just one sort of working type and one sort of show type. The working bred Labrador shown is on the finest, smallest, leanest side of the working bred spectrum. The show bred Labrador shown is also, again, not a big boy for a chunky Labrador, he is fairly typical in substance and size, but there are certainly far heavier built. As, again, there are far heavier built working Labradors. For example, this dog:

whilst having absolutely every stereotypical trait of a working line labrador infact is completely half showlines and half working lines. So it is difficult and misleading to generalize too much. As regards temperament and personality, do not be fooled into thinking show bred dogs are lazy, harder to train, unable to do long walks and be slim and fit. EQUALLY do not think working bred dogs are easier to train, smarter, healthier, or conversely, as some think, more prone to aggression. You need to keep an open mind. There are short legged, broad bodied working bred Labradors. There are slim, leggy, narrow headed showbred Labradors. Unless you look at the pedigree (family tree) of the dog and identify the type of dogs behind him you can often be very misled if you have a stereotype in your mind. No one TYPE of Labrador (or COLOUR OR SEX of Labrador) is easier to train, more loyal, quieter, less prone to health problems, or a paragon of virtue! Your Labrador will be what you patiently, kindly and consistently train him to be. Your Labrador will also be, very much, the result of the quality of breeder you went to and the care and time they gave the puppies, in a home environment, giving them the best most loving possible start to their lives. Diana Stevens 2009

Labrador Retriever Characteristics

The Labrador we love has distinct physical and behavioral characteristics. These can differ between the show and working types, but there are common Labrador traits that both varieties share. Your Labrador will be friendly, sociable and often exuberant in personality.

The Lab loves human companionship, but is first and foremost a retriever. Your dog was bred for generations to stay close to their human partner. Waiting patiently until asked to fetch a game bird from the undergrowth. They needed to be able to follow directions, and deliver a retrieve quickly and carefully to hand. The Labradors highly co-operative and intelligent temperament reflects that role perfectly. And it is what has made him such a perfect fit for so many other roles in our society.

If you are thinking of bringing a Labrador into your life you need to know what you are getting into. This honest review and assessment of Labrador Retriever characteristics and temperament, will help you decide whether this magnificent breed of dog is the right companion for you at this point in your life. Well be looking at the Labradors aptitudes and abilities, his personality traits and his renowned temperament.

The Labradors Original Purpose

Your Labradors characteristics are a direct result of their history and purpose.

The Labrador falls into the category of sporting breeds of dog. The history of his development as the worlds favorite gundog is a fascinating story. The origins of the Labrador have had a profound influence on his appearance, personality and behavior.

The original fishermans friend

The Labrador was originally bred as a fishermans companion, working alongside the men and women who inhabited the inhospitable island of Newfoundland, long before modern conveniences, and technology was available. This was a job requiring a waterproof coat thick enough to withstand very low temperatures, and an ability to swim in strong currents and for long periods of time.

Imported to England, the Labs role changed to that of shooting companion, where his skill at finding game, his ability to carry objects in his mouth without harming them, and his intelligence and biddable temperament would make him the worlds finest retriever.

A talented dog

Labrador characteristics diverged them into many different roles over time. From therapy dog, to military dog, to companion and his competence at everything he is asked to do, has defined him. He is clearly a dog of many talents.

Physical characteristics of the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador retriever is a sturdily built medium to large dog. He may weigh anything from 50 to 80lbs once adult, depending on his breeding. He has a well-proportioned body with a healthy balance between length of leg and length of spine. A shape that is often described as short coupled.

What does a pedigree Labrador look like?

The distinguishing features of the Labrador Retriever are well known. He has a broad skull with chiselled features that are softened by his kindly expression and soft ear flaps. His body is powerful and well muscled and ends in a thick tail that tapers to a point. His full length muzzle houses a good cooling system and a strong set of jaws with a full compliment of 42 large white teeth.

English Labs have a broader chest, heavier build and blocky head. American Labrador characteristics are more reminiscent of their working ancestors, with a slimmer shape and less rigid conformation to the breed standard.

The Labrador Retrievers Coat

The Labradors short dense wash and go coat comes in one of three gleaming solid colors and needs little grooming to keep it looking smart.

The coat has a shining slightly oily surface and the individual hairs are straight. Although a slight ripple can be seen along the back of some dogs once the adult coat is established. A thick undercoat and the water resistant top coat keep your Labrador warm in the coldest water. And a quick shake on emerging from the sea or lake, sees the majority of the water removed from its repellant surface.

The genetics of Labrador coat color is interesting and more straightforward to understand than many other breeds of dog. Strictly speaking Labradors come in only three colors. Yellow, Chocolate, which used to be called Liver, and Black. Yellow shades range from the palest white to a deep red.

You can also get dilute versions of each coat color that express as champagne, silver and charcoal respectively.

Overall appearance of the Labrador

His sleek water resistant coat, soft flapped ears and thick otter tail give the Labrador an almost seal-like appearance. In the water, this likeness is intensified. He looks as at home there as he clearly feels, swimming low in the water and confidently powered by strong webbed paws.

On land he is equally sleek and powerful, giving the overall appearance of a fit and healthy canine athlete.

The Labradors athletic ability

The Labrador is a versatile dog who can sprint at speed over short distances or maintain an easy loping stride that will carry him for mile after mile. For a moderately large dog he is surprisingly agile, capable of jumping heights well in excess of a metre. The extent of his physical prowess may vary depending on the type or group of Labradors he belongs to, and well look more closely at that in a moment.

Labrador Retriever temperament traits

The Labradors kind expression is mirrored by his kind nature. His easy going, tolerant temperament and love of water are hallmarks of the breed, but of course, not all Labradors fit this breed description precisely.

It is fair to say that sometimes poor temperament traits such as aggression and nervousness can appear in the breed. But is it also fair to say that this is not the norm.

Special Labrador characteristics

Born from generations of being bred for retrieving in the shooting field, the Labrador has some special and important breed features. His gentle mouth, is capable of carrying delicate items with great care, and his urge to pick up and carry things is strong. His ability to track items by scent alone is extraordinary and it is no surpise that Labradors are so sought after by bomb disposal teams, customs and excise authorities and those engaged in sports where tracking is involved.

Labrador Retriever Personality

Many people are convinced that their Labrador has a sense of humor, and some Labradors are extremely playful, and not just as puppies. Others can be bumptious, clumsy, and bouncy, especially when young. Temperament, abilities and general personality may of course vary somewhat from individual to individual.

English Labrador characteristics tend a little more towards the serious, where American Labs are more sensible, driven and high strung.

Retrieving ability in Labradors

Most Labradors, even those from show stock have an inborn urge to retrieve things. This is often reflected in their fondness for carrying things around in their mouths and even chewing things up. The basic urge to chase and pick things up is of course a result of generations of breeding for the Labrador Retrievers original purpose. The instinct to bring those things back can be more variable!

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Who are Labradors well suited for?

Despite the fact that Labradors are so popular, some people are not well suited to life with one. The Labrador is a large dog that is boisterous and destructive when young, sheds copious amounts of hair and has a particular affection for mud and rolling in dead things. Labradors are social and affectionate dogs. Your puppy wont like being left alone for long periods of time. Daily dog care is essential if you work full time.

If you are not house proud and have time to exercise train, and simply be with, an athletic, affectionate, and powerful dog. You might well enjoy life with a Lab.

The Labrador Site Founder

Pippa Mattinson is the best selling author of The Happy Puppy Handbook, the Labrador Handbook, Choosing The Perfect Puppy, and Total Recall.

She is also the founder of the Gundog Trust and the Dogsnet Online Training Program

Pippa's online training courses were launched in 2019 and you can find the latest course dates on the Dogsnet website

English Lab Your Guide To The English Labrador Retriever

The English Lab has ancestors bred for pet and show life. This chunky dog has a long broad muzzle, wide head, floppy ears and a barrel chest. Their otter tail sticks out straight and bold, and their thick double coats come in three main shades of black, chocolate and yellow. Most English Labradors still have classic solid coats, although youll find variations in color thanks to dilute genes and selective breeding.

Originally all Labradors came in one type, reared for the field and raised to retrieve game and work alongside their owners. But eventually they separated off into distinct types, with English Labs becoming more suited to the show ring and family homes. Their hot headed prey drive was cooled down in a more manageable level. Although their enthusiasm for meeting and greeting people, dogs and anything else that might wander into their path has if anything grown in recent years.

These clever dogs do still show signs of their reliable working nature, but their build and general personalities are all their own.

The Appeal of the English Labrador

Despite being a sporting dog enthusiast who has raised several American type Labradors, I understand the appeal of the English Lab with his classic, handsome, features. And like a few other working Lab owners, Ive experimented with bringing English Lab lines into my life. I have been privileged to share my life with a wonderful English chocolate Lab for some years now.

Today Ill explore some of the differences between the American and the English Lab. I share some of my personal experience living with and training both these amazing types of Labrador Retriever.

Then Ill be delving into every aspect of finding and owning your first English Labrador. And, of course, sharing some of my favorite pictures of English Labs with you.

You can comment on the article below, or post photos of your own English Lab on the forum or on our Facebook page. Wed love to see your dogs.

English vs American Labs

Around the world, the Labrador Retriever has been split into two very different types of Labs.

One branch of Labradors has been developed into a strain of amazing family pets. The other has been developed into a strain of incredible, athletic, hunting companions.

This split in the breed has happened in many countries, not just in the US.

Why Did Labradors Split into English and American Labs

Dogs typically produce a litter each year, so it doesnt take long for the effects of selective breeding to show.

In the second half of the twentieth century, exhibiting dogs became increasingly popular. So for the first time, multiple Labrador generations never required to work as retrievers, were bred.

But over time when dogs are bred for the show ring, exaggerations in type begin to creep in. A certain look becomes fashionable and breeders select for that look. Thats how heavier bodies, bigger heads, and shorter legs can quickly become established.

At the same time, those working their dogs were increasingly breeding not just hunting companions, but dogs aimed at succeeding in competitions known as field trials.

In both the US and the UK, the field trial community is the main breeding pool for Labradors. Here, breeders dogs compete for the coveted title of Field Trial Champion. Such a title enables the breeder to earn stud fees from their champion dogs.

In field trials, speed and drive are rewarded, less than the steadiness and endurance of old. Overall, dogs are often rewarded for special skillsappearance counts for little. Thus our American labs were selected for their retrieving and marking skills and for their athleticism and speed. Little consideration was given to their appearance.

The split happened over a relatively short time in history, and was almost complete within five decades.

Of course not all Labradors are an extreme example of one type or another. You can see examples of dogs like this moderate black English Lab, in American Labs lines too.

But it has now been many years since we have seen a dual champion Labradorwinning as a show champion and also as a champion in the field.

Why Are They Called English Labs?

The name English Labrador, is a bit of a misnomer. And somewhat confusing for some of our European readers.

Most English Labs living in the US are as American as their American Lab cousins. Its simply that the breed was divided into these types of Lab, based on their roles as either pets or hunting companions.

Both strains were named differently depending on where you live. In England, the English Lab is called a Show or Bench Labrador. To those living in Britain, English Lab simply means a lab that was born in England.

The American Lab is called a working or field-bred Lab in Britain. And an American Lab to an Englishman, is simply a Labrador born in America.

Where Did English Labs Come From?

The Labrador breed was established in Newfoundland by pioneering English settlers. These settlers who bought their hunting and fishing companions with them from England.

So in a sense, all Labradors are English, despite the fact that all early Labradors were working dogs.

Ive written about the history of the breed in some detail, and its a truly fascinating story. The split between the English and American labs came later, when the Labrador grew in popularity as a pet during the twentieth century.

Until the 1940s, the breed was essentially one strain, and one type. The breed standard was based on this type, and on the role of the Labrador as a working retriever. Then, over the next few decades, two different types of breeders emerged, and with them, the two different strains of dog.

Typical Appearances

Two very classic features of the English Lab are his handsome chiseled head and his thick tapering otter tail.

A Broad Head

The English Lab has a larger, heavier head than the working type Lab. American Labs will often have a narrower skull with a less distinctive stopthats the point where the skull rises upwards quite steeply from the base of the muzzle.

You can see the marked stop nicely on this yellow English Lab.

The English Lab has large kindly eyes, set well apart in his broad skull while his American cousins eyes may be a little closer together.

Body Shape

The broad theme continues as we leave the head of this beautiful dog down towards his tail.

His neck is strong and in proportion to his head, his chest is broad and deep, and his hindquarters well-muscled and powerful. And that classic tail that we all love so much is heavy and sweeps downwards behind him.

In contrast, the American Lab, when viewed from the front, is often a more narrow dog with a leaner appearance. He gives the impression of a dog built for speed and agility, as well as strength and power.

Are English Labs Shorter?

The deep broad chest of the English Labrador may give the impression of a much shorter legged dog than the American strain.

In some cases, this is not just an impression and some show line dogs are actually slightly shorter in the leg, in proportion to their spine, than working strain Labs

English Lab Otter Tail

The thick otter tail tapering to a point may be a hazard to the china on your coffee table, but it is a beautiful thing. Its usually something that enhances the appearance of a Labrador.

In some cases, the American Lab seems to have dispensed with the otter tail altogether. Some possess a more whippy appendage with a curve or upward sweep rather than the low carriage of their show bred cousins.

These then are the key features of the English Lab distinguishing him from his working strain or American relatives:

• Broad head and neck with strong features
• Deep broad chest and slightly shorter legs
• Thick tapering tail carried low

Generally this show bred dog is a stockier, chunkier dog than the Lab bred to work as a hunting companion. And it is this stocky, chunky, and lets be honest, cuddly appearance that many people find so very attractive.

English Labrador Coat

Its no surprise that a dog originally bred to withstand the icy waters of Newfoundland is endowed with an amazing waterproof, double coat.

And while they may never be expected to swim in sub-zero temperatures, English show labs have retained their wonderful coats to this day.

At the same time, some of our working lines of Labrador have lost this thick coat.

Not all American Labs have the double coat that you find on Labs in the show ring.

It may seem slightly odd that the working dog should have lost his working coat. But it shouldnt. Youll realize why when we consider where the breeding pool of American Labs comes from. Well look at that in a moment. But now, lets talk weight.

Weight Issues

The build of the show line Lab is often reflected in his weight. He may be heavier than an American Lab of the same age. Starting from early puppyhood and going right up to maturity.

You can find plenty of information and growth charts in my article on puppy development, but remember that your English Lab puppy may be at the higher end of the weight spectrum.

English Lab Temperament

There are differences in temperament between English and American Labs, but they are not always as distinctive and well-defined as we might like.

Both strains are friendly, kind-natured dogs. However, the English Lab may in some cases be less energetic and driven outdoors. He isnt rushing here there and everywhere looking for something to hunt. And in some respects, this may make him easier to control.

On the other hand, the English Lab may also be more playful and distractible. He may be more inclined to play with other dogs than to fetch a ball for you. In some ways, this can make him harder to control.

American Labs are very tenacious, athletic dogs with powerful hunting and retrieving instincts. They need a lot of exercise, and if provided with this exercise and the mental stimulation from training and working, they can make relaxing companions at home.

However, if these mental and physical requirements are not fully met, they can be restless and even destructive housemates.

The English Lab, on the other hand, may be more relaxing company, even if he doesnt get a full work out each morning. He may be quite bouncy when young but often matures into a very gentle and loving dog.

Comparing English Lab with American Lab Puppies

From quite an early age, an experienced breeder or Labrador enthusiast will be able to identify an English Lab puppy from an American Lab puppy.

Here you can see a comparison of two of my Lab puppies at the same age

The puppy on the left is 3/4 English Lab and 1/4 American Lab. On the right, however, is an American type Lab.

The American Lab puppy has a narrower face and larger eyes and ears in proportion to her skull. If the chocolate puppy did not have some working genes, the difference between them would be greater.

English Labradors: All Grown Up

Here they are all grown up and having a joke at my expense!

The differences between the characters of these two dogs are far more distinctive than the apparent differences.

The yellow Lab, Tess has the focus and sensitivity common in Labs from working lines. Yet, she is supremely confident and assumes that everything will always be fun and interesting. She is intensely interested in people and in trying to anticipate what they want. Ive noticed she likes other dogs but is not focused on them. She has a fantastic work ethic. In other words, she has the ideal temperament for a working dog.

Rachael, on the other hand, is even more sensitive, but very distractible and intensely playful. She can lack confidence in challenging situations and is actually much less restful in the house. Compared with Tess, it is easy to see that she struggles to switch off. And while shes a very keen retriever, it hasnt been as easy to channel that drive in a useful way.

Of course, you expect personality differences between different Labs of the same type. But the distractibility and playfulness of English Labs compared with American Labs, comes up in conversation quite a bit.

English Lab Colors

It is common knowledge that English labs come in three key colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The yellow variety can range from a pale cream to a rich deep golden color.

But most yellow English Labs tend to be a paler yellow or cream. The richer, darker fox-reds tend to be from working lines.

Silver English Labs

You may have heard that there is a new (and controversial) color Labrador.

These are the silver Labs. The reason for the silver color is a gene that dilutes the chocolate coat. Interestingly, the AKC registers silver labs as chocolate.

You are less likely to find silver English Labs (as opposed to American Labs). This is simply because the color is not recognized in the show ring.

Moreover, English Labs are often bred by dog showing enthusiasts, most of whom are opposed to the registration of silver dogs.

Grooming Your English Lab

Thankfully, English Labs are not high maintenance where grooming is concerned. These active dogs will get themselves in anything from dirt to mud. But with their nearly dirt-resistant coat, you neednt worry too much.

For Labs, you can bathe them when theyre smelly or have got themselves into a murky play situation. But overall, its best to bathe them at least once in three months. You can also use a grooming brush to make that lovely coat shine. Theyll thank you for the massage!

English Labs, like all Labs, are shedding pros. So youll need a Furminator to stay sane during molting season. We have an entire post on grooming your fur baby right here: Grooming Labs.

Is There a Different Breed Standard for English Labs?

As far as the breed standard is concerned, there is only one Labrador Retriever. So in theory, all Labrador Retrievers should meet the breed standard, or at least come pretty close to it.

Dogs exhibited at dog shows are judged against that breed standard, so you would assume that any divergence would be on the part of the working dog lines.

In reality, however, breed standards are open to interpretation. And because of that, there have been changes on both sides of the divide. Show dogs have become more heavily built, whereas working dogs have become more racy.

Weve also seen show dog heads becoming bigger with looser skin. On the hand, working dogs have lost their wonderful otter tails, and in some cases their double coats too.

English Lab Health

Like all pedigree dog breeds, the Labrador Retriever has its fair share of genetic diseases. Many of these inherited conditions can be avoided by choosing puppies from health tested parents.

Some other health troubles may affect English Labs and Labs in general. But keep in mind that these are things you can prevent by regular medical check-ups. Or at the very least caught early enough. No breed is free from medical issues, and Labs are some of the best breed you can find.

The most common health issues with English Labradors include:

• Joint issues: particularly hip dysplasia and elbow problems.
• Eye troubles: They also are known to suffer with cataracts and issues with their retinas.
• Cancer: This is a big one for Labradors in general.
• Diabetes: Labradors can develop diabetes, but with proper care can live long healthy lives.

You can learn more about Labrador health and lifespan in this linked post. And find out which medical checkups are helpful for Labradors. Lets discuss another health issue especially for show line dogs: obesity.

Obesity in English Labradors How Chubby Can You Go?

There is evidence that some Labradors are more prone to obesity than some other breeds. However, whether or not this tendency is expressed in your dog, will depend entirely on you. The English Lab community are accepting of higher weight levels.

However, studies have shown that avoiding obesity in your Lab is the single most important thing to keep your dog well and give him a long and happy life.

Training Your English Lab

The English Labrador has a reputation of being a highly trainable dog. Labradors are frequently used as service dogs and the Lab deserves their reputation as a biddable and obedient dog.

That does not mean that English Lab owners dont have any problems. So dont be surprised if you need some training support at times.

In particular, Labs can be challenging as puppies during the biting phase, and when teenagers due to their strength, energy, and determination to make friends with every living soul they meet.

Its important to use modern force-free training methods if you want to get the best from your English Labrador

Youll need a good grounding in basic training skills, and if this is your first time, you might enjoy my Foundations Skills course.

Ive also set up regular tips by email which will answer many of your training questions.

Is an English Lab the Right Dog for Me?

Both Labrador types share many features. For one, they are big, messy, powerful, and bouncy when young. And like all Labs they are very sociable and dont much like being left alone for hours.

If you just want a relaxed family pet, or the appearance of your dog is important to you, then an English Lab may be a better choice than an American Lab.

Some breeders are trying to bring classic Labrador features back into their working lines, but not many.

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If appearance is less of a big deal, you have more choice. For active people who intend to walk and train their dog extensively, either American or English Labs will suit you.

If you love training dogs to a high standard or intend to use your dog as a hunting companion, perhaps reconsider. You are likely to find an English Labrador a little more frustrating to train. You may find he lacks the drive, persistence, and athletic ability that you need.

Having said that, many English Labradors do work part-time as hunting companions and do a pretty good job.

English Lab Breeders

For a classic English Lab with the stocky appearance and otter tail, go to a breeder who specializes in English lines. While some American Labs are very handsome, you wont find the really thickset, stockier dogs in working kennels.

So look for breeders who exhibit their dogs in the show ring. Or at least, who own dogs whose parents of grandparents have had some success in the show ring. These dogs will have titles after their names such as SH CH (show champion). By contrast, an American lab is more likely to have titles such as FTCH (field trial champion).

Aside from this distinction, much of the task of finding a good breeder is the same for either strain of lab. Do check out the link to get you off on the right path.

The Future of the English Lab

Many people in the working retriever community are not overly concerned with the appearance of their dogs. But some others would like to see Labrador with more classic English Lab looks, working in the field. Then, some like me have also dabbled with field training English Labs or English/American mixes. But without any high-level success in trials.

Similarly, a few within the English Lab show community train their dogs to work in the shooting field. Honestly, though, they are few and far between.

So it truly appears that the split is here to stay. It also seems that English Labs will continue to be a clear and perhaps increasingly separate type from their American cousins.

Whichever type of Labrador you choose, youll have a wonderful and beautiful companion for many years to come.

The Labrador Site Founder

Pippa Mattinson is the best selling author of The Happy Puppy Handbook, the Labrador Handbook, Choosing The Perfect Puppy, and Total Recall.

She is also the founder of the Gundog Trust and the Dogsnet Online Training Program

Pippa's online training courses were launched in 2019 and you can find the latest course dates on the Dogsnet website