The Labrador Retriever was bred to be both a friendly companion and a useful working . Historically, he earned his keep as a fisherman's helper: hauling nets, fetching ropes, and retrieving fish from the chilly North Atlantic. Today's Labrador Retriever is as good-natured and hard working as his ancestors, and he's America's most popular breed. These days the Lab works as a , assistance dog to the handicapped, show competitor, and search and rescue dog, among other canine jobs.