The Labrador Retriever, Labrador or just Lab, is a medium-large breed of retriever-gun dog. The Labrador is the most popular breed of dog in many nations. The breed tends to shed hair twice annually or regularly throughout the year in temperate climates. Some Labradors shed considerably; however, individual Labradors vary. Labrador hair is usually short and straight, and the tail is quite broad and strong. The webbed toes of the Labrador Retriever make them excellent swimmers. The webbing between their toes can also serve as a 'snowshoe' in colder climates and keep snow from balling up between their toes—a condition that can be painful to other breeds with hair between the toes. Their interwoven coat is also relatively waterproof, providing more assistance for swimming. The Labrador Rescue Trust Limited. Summer 2006. Retrieved on September 17, 2007.