The GGLRC was established in 1968 by a group of Labrador owners primarily interested in hunting, but also anxious to encourage an interest in exhibiting Labradors in conformation and obedience competition. Labrador entries at shows in California at that time were rather small and dominated by a few handlers with very little competition from local dogs.

The "driving force" behind the Club's early beginnings were two people . . . William Farley and Julie Meyer (Brudstud Labradors). While Julie is no longer active in the breed, she had unlimited enthusiasm and provided the determination to establish the original Club, named the "Golden State Labrador Retriever Club." This was replaced (1973) by the new name "Golden Gate Labrador Retriever Club" to fit the AKC request for an identification that established the regional nature of the organization.

Among its membership, the club includes several individuals who have supported the club for over 25 years. The owners of Winroc, Braemar, Briarcreek, and Campbellcroft kennels are among the longtime GGLRC members.

The GGLRC held its first licensed independent Specialty Show in the Spring of 1976. Ed Squires (Tudor Labradors) was invited to judge. This first show drew an entry of 116. Today, GGLRC's Specialty Show draws entries in excess of 400 dogs.