The term, Labrador Retriever, refers to a specific breed of dog. Retrievers are dogs that are easily trained to locate and bring back dead, or wounded, game. Generally, these dogs are used in the hunting of waterfowl such as the duck. They are also used in the hunting of land poultry, such as the pheasant. Retrievers hunt by using smells that they pick up on the air, whereas hounds use smells picked up via land and clothing, or other stimuli.
Retrievers are generally all first-rate swimmers.
Retrievers all usually have water-resistant coats. Retrievers also all generally enjoy swimming and show no fear around water. Labrador Retrievers originated in Newfoundland, Canada. The breed was imported into England early in the 19th century. The Labrador Retriever was identified as a type of Newfoundland dog until about 1887.