Labrador Retriever
Also known as Retriever du Labrador
Great Britain, Retrievers
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 54–62 cm
- Weight
- 25–36 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Friendly
- Eager to please
- Outgoing
- Active
- Good with family
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a medium-to-large retriever from Great Britain, with roots in Newfoundland, developed to retrieve game and help fishermen. It has a sturdy, athletic body, a short dense water-resistant coat in black, yellow or chocolate, and an otter-like tail. It is widely used as a family dog, assistance dog and working gundog.
Temperament
Friendly, outgoing and eager to please, usually good with children and other animals. It can be exuberant in youth and is often very food-motivated, which helps training.
Exercise
Needs at least an hour of daily exercise, such as walking, swimming and retrieving, plus mental work. It tends to stay playful for years.
Grooming
Short, dense double coat that sheds throughout the year, heavily in spring and autumn. Brush weekly or more often.
Care & wellbeing
Prone to gaining weight, so measure food and avoid overfeeding. Check ears, particularly after swimming, and look after joints.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 30.5 kg adult- Water
- 1.2 L–1.8 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,450 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Labrador Retriever
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed in Britain from water dogs imported from Newfoundland, to retrieve for shooting parties and work on land and water. It is friendly, trainable and adaptable, and today is widely used as a family pet and assistance dog.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Obesity
- Exercise-induced collapse
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- DNA tests for EIC and PRA
- Eye tests
Not every Labrador Retriever is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–13 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Labrador Retriever right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Labrador Retriever get?
Adult Labrador Retrievers typically stand about 54–62 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–36 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Labrador Retrievers live?
Typically 10–13 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Labrador Retriever need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Labrador Retriever need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Labrador Retrievers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Labrador Retrievers shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Labrador Retrievers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Labrador Retriever live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Labrador Retrievers have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, exercise-induced collapse. Not every Labrador Retriever is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Retrievers
- Internationally recognised
- 1954