Nature

A Special Dog: the Labrador

Originated in Newfoundland

By Stefan Anitei, Science Editor

19th of February 2008, 13:25 GMT

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The Labrador dog has a mysterious origin. Even if credited to Canada, its ancestors might have been brought from northern Europe. Some even attribute its origins with Erik the Red, the viking chief that stepped foot on North America five centuries before Columbus. What is sure is that this dog had already spent some

time on Newfoundland during the 17th century, where it took some genes from local dogs, the previous canine inhabitants of the island. Here, the Labrador got a great strength and the pleasure for water. It was often used by cod fishermen for catching the fish escaped from the fishing nets.

By the end of the 18th century, the authorities of the island decided to limit the number of dogs, which had turned into a problem for sheep keeping. Many inhabitants of the island had to renounce to their dogs. The luckiest dogs crossed the Atlantic on the board of cod fishing ships. The remarkable traits of these dogs were observed by noble people of Dorset (southwest England), who trained them for hunting. This way, the Labrador turned into the most famous dog in England. The breed was officially recognized in 1903.

This dog is friendly to both children and adults, it is very gentle and feels good both in rural and urban environments. A

Labrador can really be your best friend. It is a very healthy dog with an enormous appetite.

Labradors are medium sized, robust and muscular. Their large head has drooped ears and strong jaws. The coat is generally short, thick and impermeable. It can have three colors: black, brown and yellow (going from reddish to cream). Male Labradors are 56-57 cm (1.9 ft) tall, females 55 cm (1.8 ft). Labradors weigh 25-35 kg (54-75 lb) and live up to 12 years.

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dog | breed | Canada

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