British? English? American? What does it all mean?

In different breeds of dogs there are different genetic lineages that are very different from each other. Different genetic traits are specifically bred for what the breeder is looking to use the dog for. In Labradors there are English (bench/show) lines, British (UK/Ireland) lines, and American field lines. Research to find what works best for you, your lifestyle, and what you plan on using the dog for. No breed is "perfect" and while breeders strive to produce the best of the best, quirks and faults can produce themselves. 

What  traits are critical to a true British Labrador?

Cooperation
They are bred to want to work with you and for you. The willingness to please is crucial.
Sound Mind
Its important for the dog to handle pressure from training and while out hunting. Whether being corrected in training or being steady in the blind, the mental quality is very important. 
Quiet Demeanor 
​It is a trademark of the British for their ability to be quiet in the field, on the line, in the kennel, and in the crate. In England, it is a written rule that during a field trial all dogs must remain silent or will be disqualified. 
Athletic Ability 
These dogs are bred to bust through thick cover, jump fences and stone walls, and be strong swimmers even though water work isn't big in England. Physical soundness is paramount. 
You don't see many ACL's blown in the British. 
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Obsession To Carry 
They have a strong retrieve drive that is second to none. This is important part of retriever training and a trait that is never overlooked when breeding. 
Lower Tolerance Level
In England, they don't use electronic collars and its actually frowned upon.  Therefore, the dogs must be very trainable. They generally don't take more than a voice change to scold or a correction with a lead to get the point across which makes training easier.  

Colors, Conformation, Pigment, & Weight 

British Labradors come in black and various shades of yellow. Chocolate is a possibility but is rather rare. Up till recently, chocolates were frowned upon in the field work but are now being allowed to compete with success. Pigment is important in any breed. Black  or dark pigment around the eyes, muzzle, and nose are important. Females generally range from 45-65 depending on structure. Males range from 55-75 pounds. 

Gamefinding Ability and Soft Mouth

The British are trademarked by their very animated behavior in the field which makes for a fun show when out hunting. They have a strong scenting ability with athletic strength.  They have been bred to have a soft mouth as not to puncture or tear game upon retrieval. 

Downsides to a British....

No matter where you go, what you do, or who you talk to there is a downside or negative trait to everything. Nothing is perfect no matter how hard we try to make them be. British Labradors can be: 
  • Slower maturing mentally and physically
  • Can be more on the softer side
  • Are not bred for high pressure training
  • Are not bred for American style field trials (Doesn't mean they can't do them)
  • They can produce pups with poor off switches, pacers, whiners..... every breed will have outliers.