The Labrador Retriever was bred to be both a friendly companion and a useful worker. Historically, he earned his living as a fisherman's helper, hauling nets, fetching ropes, and pulling fish out of the chilly North Atlantic. Today, the Labrador Retriever is just as good-natured and hard-working as his ancestors, and he is America's most popular breed. Today, the Lab works as a service dog for the disabled, a show competitor, and a search and rescue dog, among other roles.