Canadian Government Recognizes Newfoundland Dog For Cultural Significance

Executive Council (May 25, 2023)

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes the Newfoundland dog and the Labrador Retriever as originating in Newfoundland and Labrador, and as an essential part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s historical and cultural heritage.

Both the Newfoundland dog and Labrador Retriever have existed in this province for many years. The Maritime Archaic had dogs as discovered in graves at Port au Choix by Professor James Tuck and carbon dated around four thousand years ago. The first mention of dogs to the province in historical documents is known as early as 1620. Newfoundland dogs are considered the best for their water rescuing abilities and are used around the world. The dog is a symbol of our province and the subject of many stories and legends based on the breed’s bravery and loyalty. Originally, Newfoundland dogs and Labrador Retrievers hauled fishing nets to shore and then pulled the day’s catch to market by cart.

The Labrador Retriever is among the top breeds that work as service, rescue and therapy dogs. The breed is also successful in scent detection work, including the ability to detect health issues in humans. Known for being even tempered and gentle, they have long been the number one in breed registrations in Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

Quotes “There are four breeds currently recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club as uniquely Canadian: the Newfoundland dog, the Labrador Retriever, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, and the Canadian Inuit Dog. Today, our government recognizes not only the cultural significance of the Newfoundland dog and the Labrador Retriever, but we also recognize them as originating in Newfoundland and Labrador.” Honourable Siobhan Coady Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance

“Recognition of these breeds is important, not only for those who value the broader social and cultural history of Newfoundland and Labrador, but for those, in particular, who cherish the two dog breeds so integral to the settlement and development of our province. Over the many years I have researched the history of the Labrador Retriever and Newfoundland dog, I have been struck not only by how important a part these dogs played in helping our ancestors survive, but by how our breeds reflect the virtues which we as a culture value: hard work, devotion to family, generosity of spirit. Like our people, our dogs are ‘salt of the earth’, always ready for a bit of fun, strong in defense of the people and places they love. There is nothing false or superficial about either our people or our dogs. What you see is what you get! Little wonder these dogs are so popular and beloved throughout the world. They are our gift to the world, but they are ours!” (Michael J Woods, PhD)