I think there are some really nice moderate (good bone and substance but still athletic) typey Labradors out there, what some old time breeders call "honest dogs", but they are not showy and are therefore overlooked. They are often called generic but in reality are the hallmark of this breed.
Well said, on this, mine are not showy, they are laid back easy to live with dogs, most of the "showy" ones I would not like to live with, they have too much energy. NOTE: I said most not all
A generic dog while not having glaring faults does not have outstanding breed characteristics. While it meets the standard is not exceptional in any way. There are tons of champions in the breed that are generic which is a shame. In my opinion a Labrador should not be a hyperactive dog that wags it's tail madly. A Labrador should be sensible and though happy still calm. They should have a melting expression in their eyes. The ones bouncing around do get your attention when judging but the quiet ones are not overlooked in my ring. Can you picture one of these showing machines sitting in the blind with you? Generic dogs have nothing to do with weight, they are all about being mediocre. JMO
A generic dog has no obvious faults but also does not have any particular strengths. That said, a lab is supposed to be a balanced and moderate breed. Sometimes in an attempt to reward the dog that stands out, we overlook more correct and therefore better quality dogs. Competition to stand-out has resulted in many extremes.
To an untrained eye, it is easier to see extreme qualities than more subtle structural correctness. You can hear people refer to dogs all the time as being "typey" when in fact those dogs do not have proper type (balance and moderation). Exaggerated type is not proper type.
A generic dog has no obvious faults but also does not have any particular strengths. That said, a lab is supposed to be a balanced and moderate breed. Sometimes in an attempt to reward the dog that stands out, we overlook more correct and therefore better quality dogs. Competition to stand-out has resulted in many extremes.
To an untrained eye, it is easier to see extreme qualities than more subtle structural correctness. You can hear people refer to dogs all the time as being "typey" when in fact those dogs do not have proper type (balance and moderation). Exaggerated type is not proper type.
