AUGUSTA — It’s unlikely that the Labrador retriever will be named the official Maine state dog.

The State and Local Government Committee voted 9-2 on Monday in favor of rejecting the bill sponsored by Democratic Sen. David Dutremble of Biddeford.

Additional Photos

Supporters of the bill argue that the Labrador retriever is the perfect symbol for Maine because it's friendly, hard-working and loves the outdoors. Shutterstock image

Supporters argued that the Labrador retriever is the perfect symbol for Maine because it’s friendly, hard-working and loves the outdoors.

But several members of the committee expressed concern over the Legislature picking favorites.

Democratic Rep. Catherine Nadeau of Winslow suggested that the German shepherd should be named the state dog because that breed is used often for law enforcement purposes.

Meanwhile, Republican Rep. William Tuell of East Machias called the bill “a waste of time.”

The measure now heads to the full House and Senate.