We can only make generalizations from our experience. Each dog is unique and each one has their own personality. Although no two labradors are identical, there are certain generalizations that can be made about their breed.
The English Labrador refers to conformation Labradors and is more commonly used for show dogs. The American Labrador is a term that refers to working Labradors. These labels are the result of years of specialized breeding depending on what purpose your Labrador was meant to serve.
Their looks are different. The English Labrador is generally shorter and more stocky. American Labradors are taller and more athletic. The English temperament is calmer while the American Labrador is more energetic. They are generally similar in all other ways.
Comparison of American and English Labs
English Labrador
- Height 21-25 inches
- Weight 55-85 Pounds
- Temperament Intelligent, Friendly, Loving
- High Energy Energy
- Health Average
- Grooming Average
American Labrador
- Height 21-25 inches
- Weight 55-80 Pounds
- Temperament Energetic, Intelligent, Friendly
- Energy Intense
- Health Average
- Grooming Average
English Labrador vs. American Labrador History
The original Labrador Retriever, which was not English or American, was also not from Labrador. Although he was initially called the Saint John’s Labrador Retriever, his journey started in the 19 th century in Newfoundland.
St John’s dog was originally developed as a working dog. He is used to collecting small aquatic creatures and ducks. He is most well-known as the friend of a fisherman with a natural affinity to water.
St John’s dog gained popularity after visiting English nobles took him back to Great Britain. They standardized, refined, and renamed their breed in England. He is not a Newfoundland Retriever, but it is still unclear why he is called Labrador Retriever. They have been a family favorite all over the globe since that time.
He continued to be bred by a Canadian fisherman for his work skills. However, the English gentleman was particularly impressed with his attractive looks. The sub-species of the perfect show Labradors were born here. American Labradors can also be found here.
In 1917, the American Kennel Club (AKC), first recognized the Labrador. Since then, he has been one of the most loved dogs around the globe. He is currently the most popular American dog out of 193 breeds, according to the AKC. For 26 years, the Lab has been the reigning champion!
Differential Appearance
There are slight differences in the appearance of American Labrador and English Labrador. The distinction is not recognized by the official kennel clubs, but there is an obvious difference. For competition purposes, both the English and American versions of the lab will typically avoid red-coated puppies or Silver coated dogs.
The AKC breed standard is 21.5 to 24 inches in height and 55 to 80 pounds. The lower end is for females, while the higher end is for males.
The English Labrador is not bred for any other purpose than to show off. They are therefore bred to conform as closely as possible to Labrador standards. Their stockier frame is larger than their American counterpart, with deeper barrel chests and shorter legs. Surprisingly, they have thicker fur than working Americans and thicker otter tails. English Labradors are usually at the lower end to middle of the height spectrum. They also tend to be at the top of the weight scale.
The American Labrador will usually conform to the above guidelines. They are not designed for beauty and may occasionally not conform to these standards. The American is slightly shorter and slimmer than the European. American Labs are at the higher height and lower weight ends of the scale. He is muscular but less bulky. His working ability is enhanced by his thinner coat and longer muzzle.
Temperament differences
Although the temperaments of the American Labrador and the English Labrador might differ, it is the most important factor when choosing which Labrador type to get.
The temperament of the English Labrador is calmer than that of the American. The American Labrador was developed for his work ability and higher energy level. The American Lab can be more adventurous than the English, and he loves a challenge. English labs, on the other hand, can be more active and can be easier to train depending on your level of experience. . The American has more endurance, so it is easier to tire.
Both American and English labs love to cuddle and make great pets. They are also affectionate with their families. They are both easy-going and love to please their master.
Activity levels
Because the American Labradors are more active, it seems harder to train them. The site’s managing editor was the owner of an American lab for thirteen years. She was a puppy from age four. She was always looking for a new challenge and would swim in the pool for hours.
It is important to consider your energy needs when choosing the lab type you would like. Make sure you provide plenty of exercise opportunities for your dog, regardless of whether it is in English or American.
All that said, it is important to remember that every dog is unique. Both English and American labs can be wonderful family pets. Labradors are, in general, the most popular family pet in America.
Exercise Comparison
Labradors are high-energy dogs, whether they be the American Labrador or English Labrador. Both are working breeds. Each will require at least 60 hours of exercise per day. This is in addition to playing in the garden and having a tug-of-war match with their master. Do not let their beautiful faces fool you. You must make sure they get enough exercise. If they don’t, they will destroy your home and damage your belongings. The Labrador is an energetic Labrador and a bored dog is a destructive dog.
Due to his personality, the English Labrador may be slightly more demanding than American Labrador. English Labs will likely be calmer and less demanding when it comes to exercise requirements. The American Lab will need to expel energy. This exercise should be sufficient if you are using him as a Labrador. If you do not, you will need to spend more time with him than with an English Labrador.
Both have worked in water and love to retrieve balls and sticks from the water. If you live near one or have one in your backyard, this is a great way to stimulate their minds and bodies.
Different Training Methodologies
The Labrador is the most popular breed chosen as an assistance dog for the blind, and search and rescue dog among many other canine professions. They are extremely intelligent and reliable. Labs have the same intelligence as Golden Retrievers. You should consider Harnesses for Labs if you intend to train them while walking. These tend to be safer.
It is reported that the American Labrador is more difficult to train than its English counterpart. Because he is more independent and disoriented when it comes to learning commands, and prefers to be fishing, a firmer master is needed. They are both smart pooches and will learn commands quickly if they get consistent training.
It is important to start socialization early so that they can grow into a well-behaved family member and are comfortable with different people and animals. It is important to expose them to sounds such as cars moving on the street or hoovers in the house early so that they become comfortable with all things. This journey will be much more enjoyable and faster for everyone if positive reinforcement is used.
Comparison of Health
The Labrador Retriever is generally healthy. Because the English Labrador and American Labrador are identical breeds, they have the same health issues. Labradors can develop Hip or Elbow Dysplasia. This is an abnormal formation of the elbow and hip joints that can lead to painful arthritis. This is a very common issue in canine health, especially in large dogs.
Also, he is susceptible to vision problems such as Cataracts and Progressive retina Atrophy. This is the progressive degeneration of the retina which can lead to vision loss over time.
Some breeds, such as the Labrador, can experience Exercise Induced Collapsing, which is caused by sudden loss in muscular control after a prolonged period of intense exercise. The pup may die instantly in rare cases, but an average episode can last between 25 and 30 minutes. The symptoms can include being unable to move or dragging their legs behind them while they run.
Research the breed thoroughly and be aware of any unusual symptoms. Talk to your Veterinarian if you have any questions. It is important to ensure your pet’s health by keeping current with all vaccinations and attending yearly check-ups.
Nutrition Comparison
On average, the Labrador will consume 3 cups of food per day. An English Labrador may need to eat slightly more, but an American Labrador will need to eat slightly less depending on how energetic he is. It all depends on the dog’s activity level and whether it is an English lab or an American lab. Both the English Lab Lab and the English Lab must eat dog food suitable for Labradors.
Good quality food is a great way to ensure your dog’s health and provide them with the best nutrition. Food should be appropriate for their age to avoid excess calories. You’ll likely want to feed your dog food rich in Glucosamine and Chondroitin as they get older.
Labradors are also known to be food-oriented and borderline-obsessed. You need to make sure they don’t eat too much otherwise they could become a picky pup. You can reward good behavior with treats or in puzzle toys to keep your Labrador stimulated mentally, but only give them moderately.
Grooming Comparison
A bath will be required by the Labrador at least once every six weeks, which is about the same amount as for an average puppy. The English Labrador and American Labrador will both need to be bathed every six weeks. You should not bathe him more often than once every six weeks. This could cause damage to their natural oils and can lead to a variety of skin problems. To keep your dog’s skin clean, you can purchase doggy wipes or doggy perfume at your local pet shop.
A double coat is the Labrador’s natural defense from the Canadian cold. They shed their coats in the same way that a wetsuit works. Brushing is a must for both the American and the English. To keep them warm in winter, their undercoats become thicker and denser. Then when spring and summer arrive, the undercoats shed. Labradors who live in colder climates will naturally have thicker coats. To keep their fur healthy, both Labradors will need to be brushed at least once a day during shedding season.
Price differences
An average price for the American Labrador and English Labrador is $1,200 from a respected breeder. If you purchase a English lab for show purposes, expect to pay more. Show dogs are selected for certain traits and their lineage. They are therefore more expensive.
You can expect to pay upwards of $2,000 for a pup that is from a winning breeding line, whether it’s a working or English bloodline. The price difference between the English Labrador and the American Labrador is generally not significant. It all depends on the breeding lines.
No matter if you are looking to purchase a lab, an English lab or an American lab, it is important to ensure that you buy from an experienced breeder. This will ensure you get a healthy Lab, not a puppy mill dog. Do not be tempted to save money on the initial costs. You will be paying thousands, if not even more in future Veterinarian bills.
You always have the option of Rescue. For 13 years, our managing editor was an American lab. As a rescue puppy, she was adopted at six months old. It can be much more affordable to rescue a dog than to adopt it. However, your dog may have some baggage that you need to fix.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
What breed is best for duck hunting?
American Labradors are more suitable for hunting. Although English Labradors are great hunting companions, American Labradors were specifically bred for this purpose. They are slightly smaller and have more energy out in the American lab.
Which breed is the easiest to train?
Both are equally easy to train. Due to their exuberant nature, American labs may require more energy and time to train than puppies. Both breeds are very easy to train, and they pick up new commands quickly.
Which is heavier, American or English?
English Labradors do end up weighing more. Their bodies are slightly thicker and they will often weigh a little more than their American counterparts. The parents of each type of dog will have an impact on how much they weigh. It is best to look at their parents to get a better idea about what you can expect.
Is there any difference in their tails?
Their tails are the same. They have the same lengths and girths. English Labs have a slightly thicker tip, but this is due to their thicker overall build.
Do they have any differences in their sizes?
There are very few differences in the sizes. English Labs can be slightly heavier and thicker than other labs. Their heads may be larger or thicker. Both variants, however, are roughly the same in size.
In conclusion
They are almost identical when you compare the English Lab to the American Lab. The breeds are very similar, but there are some differences. They have slight differences in appearance and temperament because one is a show dog and the other is a hunter. The English Labrador is still a capable hunter, but this does not mean that they are incompatible. We also wouldn’t say that the American Labrador looks less attractive. Both Labradors are great family pets and wonderful companions.
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking at an English or American lab, it’s all the same breed. Each type of lab is different in terms of energy levels. Although they may look slightly different, they are still the same dog. Dog personalities and sizes can vary. You can’t go wrong either way if you are looking for a family friend. You will be a household star no matter where your pooch is from.