A Bit of Background

Coat Color

Labrador Retrievers that express the dilution gene (dd) are recongized and registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) based on their foundation genetic colors, Black, Yellow, or Chocolate.

Labradors that are descriptively called "Silver" are registered as their base genetic color Chocolate

Labradors that are descriptively called "Charcoal" are registered as their base genetic color Black.

Labradors that are descriptively called "Champagne" are registered as their base genetic color Yellow.

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"In 1987 the AKC, in corporation with the Labrador Retriever Club of America, conducted an inquiry into the breeding of litters that contained members that were registered as silver. An AKC representative was sent to observe these dogs. The report and color photographs of these dogs were reviewed by AKC staff and representatives of the Labrador Retriever Club of America. Both Parties were satisified that there was no reason to doubt that the dogs were purebred Labrador Retrievers, however they felt that the dogs were incorrectly registered as silver. Since the breed standard at the time describe chcolate as ranging in shade from sedge to chocolate, it was felt that the dogs could more accurately be described as chocolate rather than silver." (Robert Young, AKC)

This remains the current policy of the American Kennel Club.

Jack Norton

Special Services Dept. AKC.