A Guide to UK Labrador and Retriever Working Dog/Gun Dog Associations and Charities

Labradors and retrievers are some of the most iconic and highly regarded working dogs in the world. Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, these breeds are commonly used in a variety of fields, including hunting, search and rescue, service work, and even therapy.

In the UK, numerous associations and charities support these hardworking dogs, offering everything from training to rescue services, and working tirelessly to ensure their well-being. In this blog, we will explore some of the key UK-based organisations and charities dedicated to Labrador and retriever working dogs and gun dogs, what they do, and where they are located.

The Kennel Club (KC)

What They Do:
The Kennel Club is the UK’s largest and most influential dog welfare and registration body, and it plays a central role in maintaining the breed standards for Labradors, retrievers, and other dogs. The KC runs a variety of activities, from promoting the responsible breeding of dogs to running various events, including working dog competitions. The KC is also dedicated to the training and development of working dogs, including gun dogs, and advocates for their welfare through its initiatives.

Location:
The Kennel Club is based in London and operates nationwide across the UK.

Key Services:

• Organises field trials and competitions for working dogs.
• Promotes responsible breeding and dog ownership.
• Provides resources and information about training working dogs, including Labradors and retrievers.

The Gun Dog Association (GDA)

What They Do:
The Gun Dog Association is dedicated to the promotion, training, and welfare of all working gundogs, including Labradors, retrievers, and spaniels. They offer training courses for owners who wish to train their dogs for gun work, which includes retrieving game and other working tasks. The GDA also runs events such as field trials and competitions, aiming to foster excellence in gun dog work.

Location:
The GDA operates nationwide with a central hub in Hampshire.

Key Services:

• Organises events like field trials, working tests, and competitions.
• Offers training courses specifically for working gun dogs.
• Promotes responsible breeding of working dogs.

The Labrador Retriever Club (LRC)

What They Do:
The Labrador Retriever Club is dedicated to promoting the Labrador breed, specifically working Labradors, which are trained for tasks like gun work, detection, and assistance. The club organises events, field trials, and competitions, allowing Labrador owners and trainers to hone their dogs’ skills in retrieving and other activities. The LRC also places a strong emphasis on the health and welfare of Labradors and supports responsible breeding practices.

Location:
The Labrador Retriever Club is based in the UK, with a strong community of members across the country.

Key Services:

• Organises field trials and working tests for Labradors.
• Promotes the health and welfare of the breed.
• Supports the training and development of working Labradors.

The Working Gundog Group (WGG)

What They Do:
The Working Gundog Group is a collective of working dog enthusiasts and trainers focused on preserving the working ability of the Gundog breeds, including Labradors and retrievers. The group is primarily involved in promoting the skills required for fieldwork, with a strong focus on the training needed for retrieving tasks. They offer training sessions for owners and provide guidance for competitions such as field trials.

Location:
The Working Gundog Group has members across the UK, with some specific training centres in East Anglia and the Midlands.

Key Services:

• Offers training courses and support for gun dog owners.
• Organises events such as field trials and demonstrations.
• Provides resources for owners interested in working their dogs in the field.

The Dogs Trust

What They Do:
While not exclusively focused on working dogs, The Dogs Trust is the largest dog welfare charity in the UK and provides vital support to dogs of all breeds, including Labradors and retrievers. The charity rescues dogs in need, provides rehabilitation, and promotes responsible dog ownership. For working dogs, particularly retired or injured ones, the Dogs Trust offers a place to receive care and find new homes.

Location:
The Dogs Trust has 21 rehoming centres across the UK, including locations in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

Key Services:

• Rescues and rehabilitates dogs, including working and retired gundogs.
• Provides education on responsible pet ownership.
• Offers rehoming services for all types of dogs, including Labradors and retrievers.

The Retrieving and Field Trials Association (RFTA)

What They Do:
The Retrieving and Field Trials Association is dedicated to the training, assessment, and testing of working retrievers. The RFTA conducts field trials that assess a dog’s ability to retrieve under different conditions. They support the ongoing education of dog owners, ensuring that retrievers, such as Labradors and retrievers, are trained to the highest standards for gundog work.

Location:
The RFTA operates across the UK, with training events and field trials taking place in various locations.

Key Services:

• Organises field trials to test working retrievers.
• Offers training courses for handlers and their retrievers.
• Provides resources on how to train a retriever to excel in gundog work.

The Labrador Rescue Trust (LRT)

What They Do:
The Labrador Rescue Trust focuses on rescuing and rehoming Labradors that need new homes due to a variety of circumstances. Many of the Labradors they rehome were previously working dogs, including retrievers and gundogs. This charity works to find the perfect home for each dog while providing support for their physical and emotional needs. They also provide information on the ongoing care required for a Labrador, especially those transitioning from working roles to family life.

Location:
The Labrador Rescue Trust operates throughout the UK with foster homes and adoption services across the country.

Key Services:

• Rescues and rehomes Labradors, including retired or injured working dogs.
• Provides guidance and advice on the care and rehabilitation of Labradors.
• Advocates for responsible dog ownership and provides information on the unique needs of working Labradors.

The Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK)

What They Do:
Assistance Dogs UK is an umbrella charity that includes several member organisations focused on training assistance dogs for people with disabilities, including Labradors and retrievers. These dogs are trained to provide a wide range of services, such as guiding people with visual impairments, providing assistance to individuals with physical disabilities, or offering emotional support. The charity works with a number of local organisations to train and place these highly skilled dogs.

Location:
Assistance Dogs UK operates nationwide, working with local member charities across the UK.

Key Services:

• Trains and places assistance dogs, including Labradors and retrievers.
• Provides support for disabled individuals who need assistance dogs.
• Promotes the welfare and rights of working dogs.

Labradors and retrievers are among the most versatile working dogs, excelling in tasks such as gun work, service dog duties, and therapy roles. The UK is home to many dedicated associations and charities that ensure these dogs are well-trained, well-cared for, and well-supported throughout their working lives. From training and competitions to rescue and rehabilitation, these organisations work hard to maintain the standards of working dog excellence while prioritising the welfare of these remarkable animals. Whether you are looking to train a working dog, adopt a retired gundog, or support a charity, these organisations offer a wealth of knowledge and resources to help you along the way.