LAB AS A PET

The Lab was originally bred to be a versatile dog, and was developed from hardworking
dogs who performed many jobs, including retrieving both birds and
fish. Most Labs, to varying degrees and depending upon their individual bloodlines,
retain some of these working instincts. This has a definite effect on the
dog’s ability to be happy as a family companion and pet.
A dog from American show lines is usually a good choice as a pet, while field
dogs may be too intense and driven to relax as a family pet. However, if a family
member wants to participate in dog sports that require an intense, energetic
dog—such as agility, flyball, dock diving, or search and rescue work—or if you
plan to hunt with your dog, then a
dog from field lines might be just
right. Let’s take a look at the breed
as a whole, though, because all
Labrador Retrievers have many
traits in common.