The distinction between American and English type labs is not an official one, but the types are now almost universally recognized by all and there are distinct differences between them. The terms are commonly used and widely known and accepted nicknames for Labradors with ancestry from the respective countries, but also that have been bred for different purposes.

The English and American types of Labrador are distinguish according to bred for show (conformation dogs) and for hunt (field dogs) respectively. In general, these types of dogs are friendly, dependable good nature, playful, and love of human companionship. They are popular as companion and as service dogs. Moreover, the Labrador is first and foremost a retriever.

Labradors bred for show and conformation have become commonly known as English type Labradors as they’re way more common in the UK. Labradors bred for field trials and hunting have become commonly known as American type Labradors as they’re way more common in the USA. But perhaps confusingly, there are American Labs that enter dog shows and there are English Labs competing in field trials and used for hunting.

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The terms ‘American Labs’ and ‘English Labs’ aren’t absolute and strict terms, but more a useful guide of the probable type of Lab being described. There are many exceptions. According to the UKC and AKC ,there is one Labrador breed standard, and that is that. All Labs should meet the same standard, there is only one Labrador Retriever. There is no ‘American Labrador Retriever’ and there is no ‘English Labrador Retriever’, there is simply ‘The Labrador Retriever.’ With this said though, there is one slight difference in allowable height between the American and English breed standards with the American being longer in leg than that of the English. 

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So why do people say their are two types? Because seeing them side by side really highlights their differences in body conditioning. See example below.

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