Collection: Personalised Labrador Retriever Gifts

Labradors are one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. They’re hard working, playful and are almost always smiling. They originate as a working breed of dog - and were actually used as little four-legged helpers on fishing boats. Today, they still enjoy retrieving (it’s in the name) for hunters of small game or birds.

In a family setting, labradors are a devoted and remarkably loving friend to every member of the household. Their sweet tempers and patient natures mean they are just as happy sat getting fussed over, as they are running around at full pelt in the great outdoors.

Did you know? Labradors are still fans of hard work. These intelligent and kind dogs hold a wide variety of different job roles, including therapy dogs, guide dogs, hunting retrievers, assistance dogs and rescue dogs for the special forces.

Labrador Retrievers originally come from Newfoundland, where they worked as helpers for the island’s fishermen. The breed was first recognised at the start of the 18th century, at which time they were initially named St John’s dogs.

When English visitors to the island saw how happy and hard-working these dogs were, they decided to bring a few back with them so that they could retrieve during hunts.

The English Kennel Club classified the Labrador Retriever as an official breed of dog around 200 years later (in 1903).

Doting, sweet and loving… for the most part, a labrador is a dog owner’s dream. Couple this enthusiasm with their enjoyment of exercise, and you’re bound to have great fun outside on walks and adventures with your pup. But, this wild side does mean that you need to properly train your labrador. This isn’t to say that they’re badly behaved, but just that you need to think ahead, and ensure that you teach them when they’re young, to give them the discipline required to stop them from going mad when they’re older.

Speaking of training, be careful when giving your labrador treats. A part of their brain is always fixated on food. They could eat and eat and eat. As a result, be careful with treat-giving in general.