Ruffwood Labs
AKC registered British Labradors
AKC Compliant
We were last inspected by AKC on 11/5/2024 and were found to be in compliance with all Rules, Regulations and Policies
Black Labrador
If you are looking to adopt a Black Labrador Retriever then you are not alone. Black is the most common color when it comes to Labs making the Black Lab the most popular dog in the world. Like all other Labs these dogs are enthusiastic, friendly, loving and possess an even temperament that you will love and you will not be able to say no to them when you look into their eyes.
What makes black the most common color? Genetics is one reason. As long as the dog has a black hair gene it will be born with black hair. Sadly there is also a much more sinister reason as well. In the early years of breeding Labrador Retrievers black was the most desired color and puppies that were other colors were culled leaving only Black Labs in the gene pool. That does not preclude Labs of other colors being born and occasionally as well some white can be found on their coat as well, a reminder of their ancestor the St. John’s water dog.
Black Labs are in their element when used as hunting dogs helping to retrieve animals. American Black Labs in particular are bred for use as a hunting dog while their British cousins are bred for more for show, though both descend from working lines. Black Labs (and other colors as well) also work as search and rescue dogs and as sniffer dogs helping to catch narcotics or sniff out bombs.
While Black Labs were popular in the United Kingdom even before they were introduced in the 19th century as their reputation as a working dog preceded them. They were not introduced to the United States until the early 20th century. They were popular due to their dark color which allowed them to sneak up on unsuspecting prey which made them ideal hunting companions.
Since then millions of people have taken a Black Lab into their home. The Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed of dog in the US since 1992 and it is easy to see why. You can’t go wrong with a Black Lab.