The Kennel Club says Labradors are Britain’s favourite breed again¹. But, “English” and “American” Labs are different types within this breed. They look and act differently, and even have different jobs².

Key Takeaways

• American Labs are taller and leaner than English Labs. They can grow up to 24.5 inches tall, while English Labs reach 22.5 inches¹.
• American Labs weigh 27-40 kg, while English Labs weigh 22.5-32 kg¹.
• English Labs are calm, smart, and friendly. American Labs are active, excited, friendly, and smart¹.
• American Labs are great for field trials because of their speed. English Labs are better as pets because they are calm and friendly².
• Both types of Labradors live for 10-12 years on average. They face similar health problems¹.

What’s the Difference Between English and American Labrador Retrievers?

Labrador Retrievers are a top choice for many, being the most popular dog in the US for 28 years³. They are loved by families and outdoor fans for their friendly nature. Yet, there are clear differences between the “English” and “American” types of Labradors.

“American” or “English” usually means the Labrador’s style, not a big genetic difference³. American Labs are often lighter, more energetic, and athletic. English or British Labs are stronger, with broader heads, and are calmer³. These differences come from different breeding goals and environments.

The split in Labrador types goes back to their beginnings and history⁵. English Labs were bred for shows, focusing on looks. American Labs were bred for work and field trials, valuing performance³. This led to clear physical and personality differences.

American Labs are top athletes, built for speed and stamina, great for field activities³. They are slender, taller, have a thinner coat, and a hunting dog-like body³. English Labs, on the other hand, have a blockier head, are stockier, have a thicker coat, and an “otter-like” tail for swimming³. These traits make English Labs better as calm companions³.

Choosing between an English or American Labrador depends on your lifestyle and preferences⁵. English Labs are great for families wanting a calm pet. American Labs are best for those with an active lifestyle and love hunting⁵. Responsible breeders, like Snowy Pines White Labs³, focus on health, temperament, and looks to meet owner needs.

The Origin and History of Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador Retriever’s story begins with the St. John’s water dog, a breed from Newfoundland⁶. These dogs were loved by fishermen and explorers for their skill in retrieving items from the cold North Atlantic⁶. From this, the modern Labrador Retriever was born⁷.

The St. John’s Water Dog and the Breed’s Beginnings

The St. John’s water dog was known for its diving and retrieving skills⁶. It was the base for the Labrador Retriever, created by mixing it with other water dogs in the 1700s⁷. These dogs were perfect for Newfoundland’s fishing needs, with their water-resistant coats and strong swimming⁶.

The Establishment of the Labrador Retriever Breed

In the 19th century, Labrador dogs were brought to England⁶. They quickly became favourites among the nobility for their hunting skills⁶. The Earl of Malmesbury and the Duke of Buccleuch helped keep the breed alive⁶. Despite challenges, the Labrador Retriever was recognized by the Kennel Club in 1903 and the American Kennel Club in 1917⁸.

Today, Labradors are known for their variety of colours and their high energy and friendliness⁸. Their history and popularity have made them a favourite pet and working dog globally⁷.

Breed Standards and Recognition

The modern Labrador retriever is seen as one breed by major kennel clubs. The Kennel Club in the UK and the American Kennel Club in the US have breed standards for Labradors⁹. Over time, the English and American Labradors have developed different traits through selective breeding⁹.

The Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club Standards

The Kennel Club in the UK and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the US have breed standards for Labradors¹⁰. Their standards are similar but have some key differences. The American Labrador can be 21.5 to 24.5 inches tall, while the English Labrador is 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall⁹.

The AKC sees only one Labrador retriever breed, including both English and American types¹¹. They judge them by the same standards, despite their looks and uses¹¹.

Physical Traits: Size, Build, and Appearance

Labrador Retrievers come in two main types: the English or British Labrador, and the American Labrador. They share the same breed but have noticeable physical differences. Understanding these traits helps us see what makes each type unique.

Weight and Height Differences

English Labradors are generally shorter, measuring 21.5 to 22.5 inches at the withers¹². American Labradors can grow taller, reaching 21.5 to 24.5 inches¹². In weight, American Labradors are heavier, ranging from 55 to 80 pounds. English Labradors usually weigh between 55 to 74 pounds¹². Some American Labradors can even reach up to 100 pounds¹².

Body Structure and Head Shape

English Labradors have a stockier build with fuller necks, chests, and blockier heads¹². Their legs are shorter compared to American Labradors, who are taller and slimmer. American Labradors also have sleeker heads with longer muzzles¹². English Labradors have thinner, upward-curving tails, while American Labradors have thicker, straighter tails¹². English Labradors also have heavier coats¹².

The three main coat colours for Labradors are black, yellow, and chocolate. Chocolate Labradors are rarer, especially in English Labradors, due to health concerns¹².

Temperament and Personality

The Labrador Retriever is known for being friendly, gentle, and eager to please. But, there are slight differences in temperament between English and American Labradors¹³.

Energy Levels and Vocalisations

American Labrador Retrievers are more energetic and active than English ones¹³. They need more exercise daily, making them great for active families and outdoor lovers¹³. English Labradors, however, are calmer and less demanding. They’re perfect for simple families, young kids, and older owners¹³.

American Labradors are more likely to bark or “talk” often¹³. English Labradors, on the other hand, are quieter. They usually communicate through body language and subtle signs¹³.

The energy and vocal differences between English and American Labradors come from their breeding histories¹⁴. English Labradors were bred for shows, while American Labradors were for hunting and fieldwork. This explains their different energy levels and drives¹⁴.

“The Labrador Retriever is a versatile breed that can adapt to a variety of lifestyles, but understanding the nuances between English and American Labradors can help you choose the right companion for your family.”

When picking a Labrador Retriever, think about your lifestyle and how active you are. This ensures a good match with the breed’s temperament and personality¹³¹⁴.

Working Abilities and Hunting Drive

Labrador Retrievers have different working abilities and hunting drives, depending on whether they are American or British/English¹⁵. Both types love retrieving and water work, but they have unique traits and temperaments.

American Labs: High-Drive Sporting Dogs

American Labradors are known for their high work ethic and hunting skills¹⁵. They are more athletic, with a leaner build and a slimmer chest than British Labs. They are also more vocal and full of energy, perfect for tough hunting and field trials¹⁵.

British Labs: Calm and Quiet Companions

British and English Labs are calmer and quieter, with a more compact body¹⁵. They are great as family pets and service dogs, thanks to their balanced nature. They are less vocal and have less energy than American Labs¹⁵.

The differences in working abilities and hunting drives between American and British/English Labs have grown over time¹⁶. These changes are due to the breed’s different histories and the needs of their regions¹⁶. Knowing these differences helps owners pick the right Labrador for their lifestyle and expectations.

Training Considerations and Biddability

Labrador Retrievers, whether from America or Britain, are known for their great trainability and love to please¹⁷. They are perfect for obedience training because they love positive feedback and learn quickly.

Pressure Sensitivity and Correction Levels

There’s a big difference in how these Labradors handle training. British/English ones are more sensitive and need gentle training. American Labradors, however, are tougher and can take more correction¹⁷.

• British/English Labradors are very “biddable,” meaning they listen well to their handlers. They do best in training that uses positive methods and gentle guidance.
• American Labradors, though, might be a bit more independent. They need a firmer approach during training. They can take more correction without getting upset or losing interest.

All Labradors love to work with their humans. Knowing how they like to be trained helps owners and trainers. This way, they can make sure the dog enjoys the training and learns well.

“Labradors are among the most versatile and trainable dogs, making them a popular choice for a wide range of activities and roles. Understanding their individual training preferences is key to unlocking their full potential.”

By understanding and using the right training methods for each Labrador, owners and trainers can help them reach their best. This way, they keep a strong and positive bond¹⁷¹⁸.

Coat Colours and Markings

The Labrador Retriever is known for its wide range of coat colours. These include the classic black, chocolate, and yellow, as well as rarer shades¹⁹. The American Kennel Club recognises yellow, chocolate, and black as the main colours¹⁹.

American Labradors can grow between 21.5 and 24.5 inches tall¹⁹. English Labradors are slightly shorter, ranging from 21.5 to 22.5 inches¹⁹.

Chocolate-coloured coats are less common than yellow or black¹⁹. This rarity is due to the complex genetics behind Labrador coat colours¹⁹. Black is dominant, while yellow and chocolate are recessive¹⁹.

Genetics and epistasis add to the variety of Labrador coat colours¹⁹. This means multiple genes and interactions between genes influence the final coat colour¹⁹.

The golden colour in Labradors is also influenced by genetics¹⁹. Dogs with specific genotypes will have golden fur, while others will have black or chocolate coats¹⁹.

Pigmentation types, driven by gene coding, also affect Labrador coat colours¹⁹. This determines the presence or absence of melanin in their fur¹⁹.

English Labs come in three main shades: black, chocolate, and yellow²⁰. They can be heavier than American Labs of the same age²⁰. Some English Labs may also be slightly shorter in leg compared to working strain Labs²⁰.

The English Lab has a thick, warm double coat²⁰. They may be less energetic and driven outdoors than American Labs²⁰. American Labs are often praised for their retrieving and marking skills, athleticism, and speed²⁰.

The split between English and American Labs happened quickly, in just a few decades²⁰. This rapid change has led to the unique traits of each type²⁰.

Health and Longevity

The Labrador Retriever is a healthy and strong breed. But, like any dog, they can get sick²¹. Ear infections are a big problem, affecting 10.4% of Labradors. Chocolate Labradors are more likely to get them, with 23.4% affected²¹.

Labrador Retrievers usually live for about 12 years²². But, their life span can change based on their health, diet, and exercise. Chocolate Labradors live about 10 years, while yellow and black ones can live up to 10% longer²².

Labradors often face musculoskeletal disorders, which cause 24.5% of their deaths²¹. About 8.8% are overweight, and 5.5% have osteoarthritis²¹. Getting a good breeder, keeping them at a healthy weight, and exercising them can help them live longer²².

Knowing about Labrador health and lifespan helps owners care for their pets better²¹²².

Choosing the Right Labrador for Your Lifestyle

When picking a Labrador, it’s key to know the difference between American and British/English types. American Labs are longer and leaner, while English Labs are stockier and shorter²³. American Labs are also seen as more athletic and better at hunting.

If you want a lively, talkative dog, an American Labrador might be perfect²⁴. For a quieter, more polite pet, a British Labrador could be the better choice²⁴. American Labs are bred for hunting, while English Labs are known for being calm and relaxed.

²⁴ The American Kennel Club (AKC) sees Labradors as one breed, meaning there’s no big genetic difference between them²⁴. But, British Labs are usually smaller, and size often shows their heritage.

²⁴ American Labs are tougher to train, but they’re more resilient²⁴. British Labs, on the other hand, are softer and easier to train. The choice for hunting depends on the environment and the dog’s qualities needed.

Choosing a Labrador means thinking about your lifestyle and what you need. Both American and British Labradors are loyal, smart, and can be great pets.

Responsible Breeding and Puppy Selection

Getting a Labrador retriever is a big deal. It’s all about responsible breeding and picking the right puppy²⁵. These dogs are loved in the US for being friendly and gentle²⁵. It’s key to choose a puppy from a breeder who cares about the dog’s health.

²⁶ Labradors are the top dog in the US, and good breeders keep them special²⁶. They make sure puppies are healthy before they go home. Breeders also check the parents for health issues²⁶.

²⁷ Good breeders aim to make the breed better, not just more²⁷. They learn a lot about their breed and health²⁷. This helps them find the best dogs to breed.

²⁵ Labradors need lots of exercise and love to swim²⁵. They come in many colours, including fox red²⁵. They can get fat, so their food needs watching²⁵.

²⁵ English Labradors are calmer and have a thicker coat²⁵. They’re great with families because they’re patient and playful²⁵. They look different from American Labs, with a blocky head and shorter nose²⁵.

²⁶ Good breeders might sell puppies with rules to keep breeding quality high²⁶. They want to help with any questions for the dog’s whole life²⁶.

²⁷ The AKC helps with learning about Labradors²⁷. Breeding costs a lot, but breeders do it for the right reasons²⁷. They want puppies to go to loving homes²⁷.

“Responsible breeders care to produce healthy Labrador Retrievers with good temperaments.”

Conclusion

The Labrador retriever is one breed, but there are differences between American and British/English Labs. American Labs are bigger, with a height of 21.5-24.5 inches and a weight of 70-100 lbs. They have a leaner build and a thinner coat²⁸²⁹³⁰.

They are very energetic and love to stay active. This makes them great for hunting and field trials²⁹³⁰.

British/English Labs, on the other hand, are smaller. They stand 21.5-22.5 inches tall and weigh 60-80 lbs. They have a stockier build and a thicker coat²⁸²⁹³⁰.

They are known for being calm and reserved. This makes them perfect as family pets²⁹³⁰.

Choosing the right Labrador depends on your lifestyle. Think about your energy levels, activity needs, and what you prefer. The differences between American and British/English Labs can help you choose the best Labrador for you³⁰.

Source Links

1. English Labs vs American Labs: what are the differences? – https://www.petwise-insurance.com/advice/english-labs-vs-american-labs-what-are-the-differences/
2. English vs American Labrador – What’s the Difference? – https://www.thelabradorsite.com/english-vs-american-labrador/
3. Side-by-Side: The Difference Between English & American Labrador Retrievers – SnowyPines – https://www.snowypineswhitelabs.com/blog/side-by-side-the-difference-between-english-american-labrador-retrievers/
4. English vs American Labrador: The Main Differences (With Pictures) – Dogster – https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/english-vs-american-labrador
5. The Difference between the English Labrador and the American Labrador – https://www.fieldstonekennels.com/post/the-difference-between-the-english-labrador-and-the-american-labrador
6. No title found – https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/labrador-retriever-history/
7. The History of Labrador Retrievers – https://www.snowypineswhitelabs.com/blog/history-of-labrador-retrievers/
8. Labrador Retriever – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labrador_Retriever
9. English Labs vs American Labs Differences – A Guide To Show vs Field Labradors – http://www.countrytails.net/index-58.html
10. What is an English Type Labrador? – http://www.trinitylabradors.net/what-is-an-english-type.html
11. Differences Between English & American Labs | Moose & Mary – https://mooseandmarylabs.com/blog/american-vs-english-labs/
12. English Lab vs. American Lab – https://www.fieldandstream.com/hunting/english-lab-vs-american-lab
13. English vs American Labrador — Smoky Mountain Labradors – https://www.smokymtnlabrador.com/blog/an-english-labrador-vs-american-labrador
14. Different between American and English | Greenstone Labradors – https://www.greenstonelabradors.com/different-between-american-and-engl
15. A Guide to the English Lab vs American Lab – https://www.outdoorlife.com/hunting/english-lab-vs-american-lab/
16. Defining the Differences of the British Lab and the American Lab – https://projectupland.com/hunting-dogs/english-lab-versus-american-lab/
17. Labrador Retrievers: What’s Good About ‘Em, What’s Bad About ‘Em – https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/labradorretrievers.html
18. Really good article on show/field split sporting breeds… – https://www.lab-retriever.net/board/agility-obedience-and-conformation/10987-article-field-split-sporting-breeds-2.html
19. Does a lab’s coat color matter – SnowyPines – https://www.snowypineswhitelabs.com/guides/does-a-labs-coat-color-matter/
20. English Lab – Your Guide To The English Labrador Retriever – https://www.thelabradorsite.com/english-labrador/
21. Chocolate Labradors have shorter lifespan than rest of the breed – News – VetCompass – https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass/news/chocolate-labradors-have-shorter-lifespan-than-rest-of-breed
22. How Long Do Labs Live? (+Tips To Help Your Lab Live Longer) – https://www.snowypineswhitelabs.com/blog/how-long-do-labs-live/
23. American vs. English Labs … what’s the difference anyways? – https://www.bigcreeklabradors.com/post/american-vs-english-labs-what-s-the-difference-anyways
24. A Guide to the English Lab vs American Lab – https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/guide-english-lab-vs-american-120429023.html
25. Ultimate Guide to English Labrador Puppies — Smoky Mountain Labradors – https://www.smokymtnlabrador.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-english-labrador-puppies
26. Why a Lab? – https://www.fairfaxpinesenglishlabradors.com/why-a-lab.html
27. No title found – https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/breeder-education/akcs-guide-responsible-dog-breeding/
28. Comparing English vs American Lab For Hunting – Kalkal – https://www.kalkal-online.com/english-vs-american-labrador/
29. Differences Between English & American Labradors – Rocky River Retrievers – https://www.rockyriverretrievers.com/differences-between-english-american-labradors/
30. English labrador vs American labrador – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/english-labrador-vs-american-vet-ali-tkpnc