Labrador Retrievers are known for their gentleness, intelligence, and kindness. This makes them very good with people, children, and other animals. Their easy-going nature makes them one of the most popular dog breeds in the world! However, though they’re famously laid-back and make fantastic family pets, Labs were also made to run, swim, and work.

Even in earlier times, Labrador Retrievers were one of the most popular dog breeds for hunting because, as is evidenced by their name, they were bred and chosen for their amazing retrieving abilities, as well as their intelligence, great physical skills, and keen smell. Also, it should never be forgotten that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and even labrador puppies show a strong desire to swim and play around in the water. Because of that, they would also work with duck hunters and fishermen. 

Today, however, Labradors are more commonly kept as house pets but they still excel at many jobs. 

For example, Labs can be seen working as service, therapy, or guide dogs for people with visible or invisible special needs or disabilities. As previously mentioned, Labradors are very gentle and kind dogs so, with the right training from a professional, it makes them perfect for people who require special aid.

In addition, Labs are great for scavenging out people after natural disasters or war situations for example. Since they are smaller than people, it is easier for them to search under debris and ruins for possible survivors and alert authorities if anyone is found.

Labs can also be of use at borders between countries as customs dogs. Labrador Retrievers have a very good sense of smell so it is quite easy for them to sniff out drugs or firearms of people looking to cause chaos.

Labradors are very capable dogs, so there are many other jobs they may have like being performance dogs, police dogs, guard dogs, and more! Interestingly enough, labradors can still be found carrying out the same role as they did decades ago: hunting with their humans in the wild. 

But, no matter the job, the most important thing for a Labrador is to make their family happy, whether that’d be by bringing their human a squeaky toy, a bird they helped their human catch, or even their humans’ medicine.