Originally from Newfoundland—not Labrador—where they retrieved fishnets and lines for fishermen, labradors are perfectly bred for swimming in cold water. Their outer coat is short, straight, and very dense, but they also have a soft, weather-resistant undercoat that provides protection from icy water. And their webbed feet help them swim quickly! They can have black, yellow, and chocolate-colored coats. They’re friendly, outgoing, and easily trainable, which is why they’re such popular pets and why so many work as seeing-eye and rescue dogs, although they can get bored if they don’t have anything to do. Labradors love children and other pets and make a valuable asset to any family. They’ll even alert their owners if a stranger is around.