Why do retrieving dogs retrieve?

In a certain way every dog retrieves. As an example, we could talk about when one throws a ball and the dog rushes to pick it up and bring it back to you or just carry it around or as a means to measure their strength against you when trying to take away from its mouth. All this is referred to as retrieving.

It's the same with wolves, only that these carry authentic preys.

The most common retrievers are the Goldens and Labradors. Humans have taught –through an unconscious training program- dogs not to kill or destroy their quarry they have clamped in their jaws. Dogs have been retrieving since centuries ago being the Labrador one of the most ancient retriever known to man.

Now, after centuries of breeding races that have this basic instinct well developed we have brought up the retriever breeds we know today.