There is only one breed of dog known as the Labrador Retriever, described by the Official Standard for the Labrador Retriever. Within Labrador Retriever breed type there are variations in body style, which have evolved to suit the use of the dog, as well as the preferences of individual breeders and owners. In the United States the general public has begun to label these variations as “English or “American” style. Perhaps a better description for variations in style is “show/conformation” or “working/field” styles.

The working/field or “American” style of dog is the label often attached to a Labrador possessing lighter bone structure and exhibiting more length of leg, a less dense coat and a narrower head with more length of muzzle.

The conformation/show or “English” style Labrador is generally thought of as a stockier dog, heavier of bone, denser in coat and having a head often incorrectly described as “square or blocky.” However, working/field variations occur in England as well, so this description is not necessarily suitable.

These general images portray the extremes of both styles and do not help to identify the temperament, trainability or health of the dog. In fact, the vast majority of Labrador Retrievers, whether of conformation/show breeding or working/field breeding, possess moderate body styles much closer to the written Standard of the breed. It is possible that within a single litter, whether that litter has been bred for show/conformation or working/field, individual pups can mature to be representatives of the range, though rarely producing the extremes, of the two styles. We recommend that you discuss the issue of size and style, as well as temperament, trainability and health, with any breeder you contact. However, please remember that there is only one Labrador Retriever breed, one that meets the requirements as set forth in the Official Standard for the Labrador Retriever.”