Speaker, 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.

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 The first mention of dogs to the province in historical documents is known as early as 1620.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.

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

Thank you.