The Labrador Retriever came from Newfoundland, where it was used to help fishermen haul their nets ashore. Today, they are popular companions as well as gun dogs. Because of its excellent swimming skills, the Lab is often used as a waterfowl retriever. "Watch!" is the command given to the dog to sit still and wait for incoming waterfowl. After the ducks are down, the dog will given the command to swim out and retrieve them. Under the "watch!" command, the Lab must be patient and still. Even so, the excitement and eagerness is easy to see in the dog's eyes.