Explaining the difference in the English/Show Lab and your American/Field Lab..
After owning both the English and the American/Field Labrador, i will be the first to say, there IS a difference.
When searching for a labrador puppy, i suggest that you ask about the lines, if they're American/Field lab or English?
The breeder SHOULD know where the lines come from and know what they are breeding!! Every Lab lover has their
own preferences for what they like and don't like in a Labrador (or any other breed)..
Ive
had people tell me " we didnt know our lab was field when we bought him, and he was way to hyper for our family and were
unable to keep him". A breeder SHOULD explain this to a person for the welfare and well-being of their
puppies!! I would think the only reason a breeder wouldnt take the time to explain is to push that puppy out the door.
I would much rather see a person go somewhere else and get a puppy if mine arent suitable for that person, than to have the
puppy end up in a shelter later on...
How can you find out what the puppy is if the breeder
doesnt know, ask for pedigree!!
Most labs, if bred from good lines, have champions in
thier pedigree. Some common abbreviations in the pedgiree of English are CH. (show champions) and CD (companion dog).. The
most common in American/Field labs are FC, NFC, AFC, JH,( Field champ, National field Champ, Amateur field champ and Junior
Hunter). So what if there's no champs of any kind in the pedigrees? Then your guess is as good as mine.
ENGLISH (show/confirmation)..
Labs are usually very close to the Lab Breed Standard
per AKC. These are usually the type Labs you see in the Show ring. They are basically the heavier bone frame, with a
much squarer head. Therefore the term being referred to as "Blocky & Stocky" build,. the thick "otter"
tail; wonderful temperament, and are low-key, (less hyper), just overall, very calm natured. They are a wonderful
to live with, eager to please, ready to play. This is the type we have...
Field OR American (for hunting/field trials)...
Field Labs tend to be taller, finer boned, a very high energy level referred to as "drive" .
Their head / skull is more streamlined/ Longer than square. Tail is usually
medium to skinny and longer in appearance. They can go ALL day. They tend to chew more. They are great if
you are into hunting, field trials, or you are super active. As a "house" dog, I personally think they
are way to active for that lifestyle.