Labrador Retriever
Also known as: Lab
Canada, 
United Kingdom
- Lifespan
- 11-13 y
- Weight
- 25-36 kg
- Exercise
- High
Breed profile
- Size
- Large
- Breed type
- Purebred
- Trainability
- High
- Grooming
- Moderate
- Allergy friendly
- No
- Home
- Needs space
- Water
- Loves
- Best for
- Some experience
- Male weight
- 29-36 kg
- Female weight
- 25-32 kg
- Temperament
- Active, Friendly, People-pleasing
Description
A Lab is sunshine in dog form, an eternally optimistic, tail-wagging ambassador of joy. They greet the world with boundless enthusiasm, convinced every human, animal, and squeaky toy is their new best friend. Bred as retrieving companions for fishermen, their natural desire to carry things and please their people is deeply ingrained. This means a Lab loves a good game of fetch, a swim, or carrying their leash to the door. While their good nature is legendary, that famous energy needs an outlet, a bored Lab can be a surprisingly creative (and destructive) interior decorator of household items. Their deep loyalty and goofy charm make them truly exceptional family members, always ready to snuggle on the couch after a vigorous romp.
Health considerations
Common issues
- Allergies
- Hip dysplasia
- Exercise‑induced collapse (EIC)
- Elbow dysplasia
Recommended screenings
- Hips/elbows (OFA/FCI)
- Hips (OFA/FCI)
- Skin/coat checks
- Ear care plan
- EIC DNA test
- Elbows (OFA/FCI)
Consult your trusted vet for advice specific to your dog.
