The Retrieving Breeds
Used in shooting where a large amount of game is likely to be shot, or when wildfowling where duck and geese may fall across or into water, these dogs must be able to swim, carrying large game possibly across swollen rivers or in tidal areas, and be strong enough to recover a wounded goose.
Labradors, the classic retriever in the UK.
The typical shooting lab is lighter in weight than they tend to be in the show ring, where they are quite often too heavy for sporting use.
Typically more placid than the spaniels, labradors also make good family pets. With a tendency to be greedy, 'be careful not to leave your sandwiches around' is good advice.
Golden Retrievers
Without meaning to be offensive to people who work the breed, this is one of those dogs that has grown away from the working environment, in much the same way as cocker spaniels did until their newly refound popularity.
I would love to hear from anyone who currently works this breed - it would be great to include an article and pictures about you!