Updated January 8, 2008
I encourage you to do your own research on the diluted shades of the Labrador Retriever. You will find there is quite the controversy over these shades, in particular the Silver Labrador. We did research of our own before we purchased our first Silver. There are only two sides of the coin to this controversy, you either love them or you hate them.
Q: Is the Silver a purebred Labrador Retriever?
A: E-mail the A.K.C. directly and ask them if the Silver Labrador is purebred. You will not find this on the website.
Q: I've e-mailed the American Kennel Club directly and they did respond by telling me that the Silver Labrador is indeed a purebred after doing a kennel investigation with the Labrador Retriever Club of America (L.R.C.). After this investigation was conducted, they both agreed that the colour should no longer be registered as "Silver" but changed to Chocolate. They do not mention this on the A.K.C. site, only IN RESPONCE BY E-MAIL. However, I've read on the L.R.C. website that they do not recognize these dogs as silver nor do they condone the reproduction, the sale or registration of these dogs as chocolate. LRC I thought the board members for both Clubs would vote on this and agree?
A: You've done your homework. You are absolutely correct on all counts. If the L.R.C. did this investigation with the A.K.C. and approved the Silver Lab to be purebred. Why do they have a conflicting opinions?
Q: Just how is it that the Silver can be registered at all, chocolate or otherwise? Can you tell me how these decisions are made?
A: The big players have some issues to sort out. Here's how it works: If there is a change in the breed standard, a vote is held within the L.R.C. and if the vote is passed, it must also pass the Board of Directors. After a majority vote, this proposal is then presented to the A.K.C. At this stage another vote is taken for the final word on whether or not this amendment would be accepted or denied by the board members of the A.K.C. A proposal for change can be presented on either side and MUST be approved by a majority on the Board of Directors on BOTH sides before the new standard becomes effective. A final decision would be as one by both parties and is policy on all decision making.
We don't understand how both parties can conflict on this issue. Clearly, in the end some decisions need to be made by the L.R.C. and the A.K.C. as a unit to bring order and put a stop to this "controversy" between breeders.
We just love these beautiful shades and in the end when we purchased our first silver......we were aware of this information and took a chance not to ruffle too many feathers. On the other hand there are some wonderful sites on the Silver Labrador.
We are not here to dispute or debate any of these claims or get involved in the "big controversy" with other breeders. The bottom line here is this, the silvers or whatever diluted shade you enjoy have all the remarkable qualities that of the Labrador Retriever. They are loyal, eager to learn, a lovable family companion as well as all the obedient ingredients for field trial or hunting. Diluted shades, including Silvers are registered with the A.K.C. and disqualied for show until recently. We are now aware of the very first dilute or "Silver" from Arizona with mulit-tiltles awarded by the A.K.C. and C.K.C. The Silver Labrador is beginning to excell in it's recognition, which in turn it's just a matter of time before they are registered as Silver once again. If you purchase a standard or diluted shade of the Labrador Retriever from us, you will own an A.K.C. registered Labrador Retriever. We are one of the first in Canada to introduce the "Silver" or diluted chocolate to Canada, and more than happy to do so.
We are sure you will do your homework before puchasing any pet and feel free to e-mail us if you have any questions or concerns. We are more than happy to help.
