 Jack Vanderwyk traces the origins of all Chocolate Labradors listed on the LabradorNet database ( some 34 @,@ 000 Labrador dogs of all shades ) to eight original bloodlines . However , the shade was not seen as a distinct colour until the 20th century ; before then according to Vanderwyk , such dogs can be traced but were not registered . A degree of crossbreeding with Flatcoat or Chesapeake Bay retrievers was also documented in the early 20th century , prior to recognition . Chocolate Labradors were also well established in the early 20th century at the kennels of the Earl of Feversham , and Lady Ward of Chiltonfoliat . 
