Labrador

Sunday Times Bestseller

'Passionate and well-researched' Tatler

'A must-read' Independent

A social history of Labradors, and how they have become the world's most beloved dogs, by writer, presenter and long-time dog lover Ben Fogle.

Labradors are the most popular breed of dog in the world. Not only a great family companion, they also excel at hunting, tracking, retrieving, guiding and rescuing. But where did the breed originally come from? How did it develop? When did black, yellow and chocolate Labradors first appear? Did they really all come from Labrador in Canada and are they really all related to just one dog?

In this first history of the Labrador, Ben Fogle goes in search of what makes Labradors so special. Their extraordinary companionship, intelligence, work ethic and loyalty is captured by Ben as he weaves the story of the breed into his own story of his beloved Inca.

Ben visits Canada, discovers hair-raising stories of early Labrador exploits and uncovers stories of RNIB Labradors and Labradors at war, Labradors as working dogs and every other manifestation of the Labrador's character. Exploring their origin, early characteristics, their use as gun dogs, as therapy dogs, as police dogs, as search and rescue dogs and last - and absolutely not least - as family pets, Ben tells the story of a dog breed which has captured our imagination and love for hundreds of years.

This book by top author Ben Fogle is a comprehensive exploration of Labradors, the world's most beloved breed. As a Sunday Times bestselling author, Fogle's passion and knowledge shine through, making this book a must-read for all dog enthusiasts.

For fans of Levison Wood (The Art of Exploration), Daniel James Brown (The Boys In The Boat), Bear Grylls (Soul Fuel), Amanda Owen (Celebrating the Seasons with the Yorkshire Shepherdess), and Dermot O'Leary (The Soundtrack to My Life).