Labrador Retrievers were originally from Newfoundland, came in several different sizes and were known as Newfoundlands. They originally helped the fisherman by pulling boats through the water and retrieving game and fish. They performed well at any task involving swimming. These dogs eventually died out in Newfoundland because of a "heavy dog tax"; but, fortunately, some specimens had been taken to England and it is from one of these - the "St. John’s Newfoundland" - that the dog that we know as the Labrador Retriever is descended.
These short-coated retrievers can have brown, black or "yellow" coats. They weigh between 55-80 pounds and stand 22-25 inches tall. Today they are involved in agility, obedience, confirmation, drug detection, hunting and guide dogs. Their easily maintained coats need only weekly brushing for maintenance. While they can live in a well-protected outdoors kennel, they are more likely to thrive and become an all-round companion if allowed to share the family home!
Most of these intelligent animals excel at obedience, hunt and agility. They were bred to return "water game" to their masters, so they are strong and willing. It is necessary for the owner of these animals to be aware of the dog's limits, because their enthusiasm will lead them to overdo it and hurt themselves.
Studies have shown that mixed breed dogs tend to be average in size. "Mother Nature" tends to breed for sturdiness, intelligence, playfulness, ability to co-exist with other pets and people and longevity, so we can expect Shelby to be healthy and sturdy. Her short haired coat indicates that she won't need a great deal of grooming or special care; and her loving family intends for her to live indoors, so that shouldn't be any concern.
