*The Labrador Retriever is one of several kinds of retriever, a type of gun dog. The Labrador is considered the most popular breed of dog (by registered ownership) in the world, and is by a large margin the most popular breed by registration in the United States (since 1991), the United Kingdom, and several other countries.
*The Lab is also the most popular breed of assistance dog in the United States, Australia, and many other countries, as well as being widely used by police and other official bodies for their detection and working abilities.
*Labs are exceptionally affable, gentle, intelligent, energetic and good natured, making them both excellent companions and working dogs.
*Although somewhat boisterous if untrained, Labs respond well to praise and positive attention, and are considerably "food and fun" oriented. With training, the Lab is one of the most dependable, obedient and multi-talented breeds in the world.
*Labs instinctively enjoy holding objects and even hands or arms in their mouths, which they can do with great gentleness (a Lab can carry an egg in its mouth without breaking it).
*Labs have a well-known reputation for appetite, and some individuals may be highly indiscriminate, eating digestible and non-food objects alike. They are persuasive and persistent in requesting food.
NOTABLE LABRADOR RETRIEVERS:
*Buddy and Seamus, President Bill Clinton's Labs
*Zeke the Wonder Dog, mascot for Michigan State University's Spartans
*King Buck, the first Black Lab on a US postage stamp
