Labrador Dog Breed Information

Group

Gundogs, Sporting

Weight

25-31 kg

Height

55-62 cm

Lifespan

10-12 years

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About the Labrador

Reviewed by:

Dr. Julia Brassel

Veterinarian

In the 21st century, Labrador Retrievers play many important roles. They are guide dogs to the blind, rescue dogs for law enforcement, and loving companions to millions of families.

If you’re looking for a calm-natured and intelligent family dog to join your home, a Labrador is likely to tick all of your boxes.

It’s important to conduct thorough research before committing to buying or adopting a pup. To find out all there is to know about Labrador Retrievers, you’re in the right place.

We’ve compiled a complete breed guide, including feeding habits, grooming info and character traits. By the end of this article, we promise that you’ll be a Labrador expert!

What is the history & origin of the Labrador?

Labrador Retrievers were originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, in the 18th century. They worked as fisherman’s helpers, retrieving fish that had escaped the nets and keeping fisherman company.

Once news got out about these loyal companions, they were exported across the world- including to Britain and the USA- and gained massive popularity by the 1950s.

These purebred dogs were recognized by the American Kennel Club as a distinct breed in 1903. In 1991, they won the title of ‘America’s Most Popular Dog’- and they’ve held the title ever since!

Labradors today work in a range of fields- detecting explosives, participating in animal therapy, retrieving for hunters and assisting those with disabilities. While their intelligence makes them perfect for professional work, their gentle nature has secured them a reputation as one of the sweetest dog breeds around.

What is a Labrador breed?

Labrador Retriever is a medium-to-large dog breed characterized by its short coat and athletic physique. As a member of the sporting group, Labradors love to exercise, from swimming to games of fetch.

There are three main colours of Labrador: black, yellow and chocolate. A Labrador Retriever’s coat is typically hard and dense.

Due to their intelligence and friendly nature, Labradors have been bred to create many different hybrid breeds. These include Labradoodles (Labrador/Poodle cross), Boston labs (Labrador/ Boston Terrier cross), Boxadors (Labrador/Boxer cross) and Golden Labradors (Labrador/Golden Retriever cross).

While the characteristics of these Lab crosses depends on the genetics of both parents, pure-breed Labradors are recognizable by their short hair, well-balanced physique and friendly facial features.

Learn more about: Labrador Colours

Who is a Labrador best for?

Because Labradors are independent and adaptable, they can fit nicely into many different types of households. Here are some of the best fits for this breed:

Families

Due to its calm nature, a Labrador Retriever makes a fantastic family dog. Labs generally love children and babies.

Labradors are also known to get along well with other animals, so having other pets already shouldn’t pose an issue.

Adventurers

Unlike some other breeds, a Labrador will relish the chance to join you on a jog, hike or wild swim. Labrador Retrievers are the perfect companion for athletic and outdoorsy types.

Labs also have a curious nature, making them well suited to joining you on exciting adventures. From beaches to forests, your Lab will be happy to join you wherever your wanderlust takes you!

Anyone in Need of a Service Dog

Labradors are good at almost every type of service work, from fetching items to leading the way while out and about. Their soft mouths allow them to pick things up gently, while their calm temperament means they aren’t easily distracted.

Labrador Grooming & Shedding

When it comes to grooming, it couldn’t be easier than with a Labrador. A Lab’s short coat doesn’t require haircuts- you’ll just need to ensure that your pup’s nails are clipped regularly.

One thing to be wary of before buying or adopting a Lab is the fact that their coats shed a lot. You’ll need to vacuum your home regularly, though brushing daily can help get rid of the loosest hair.

Learn more about: Labrador Grooming Tips & Styles

Do Labradors bark a lot?

Because they were bred to be calm and easy to socialize, Labrador Retrievers aren’t considered an overly vocal breed.

If your Lab’s barking is posing an issue, consistent training with reinforcement should be enough to tackle the problem.

What is the average weight & height of a Labrador dog?

Male adult Labrador Retrievers typically weigh between 29.5 kg and 36 kg (65 and 80 pounds), while females weigh between 25 and 31 kg (55 and 70 pounds).

This large breed can stand up to 55 to 62 cm (24.5 inches) tall, with females being generally smaller than males.

Learn more about: Labrador Size & Weight Chart

Are Labradors easy to train?

These high energy dogs are some of the easiest to train. A happy Labrador is one that’s kept engaged and occupied, so when it comes to mental stimulation, it’s the more, the better.

To avoid your Lab from exhibiting territorial or food aggression in adulthood, it’s essential to train him well. Consistent training with plenty of positive reinforcement should do the trick!

Learn more about: Labrador Training Guide – Crate, Toilet & More Tips!

How do Labradors behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Labradors tend to be easygoing and calm. Though they’re known for their loyalty, they will sometimes need their own space.

Labs are also highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train. They are capable of performing all kinds of tasks, from search and rescue to complex puzzles.

This breed is also sociable. So when you bring the Labrador Retriever breed into your home, you can expect it to get on well with your other pets, as well members of your household.

As their name indicates, Labs were bred to be retrievers. There’s nothing a Lab loves more than a game of fetch, though be warned; you might have trouble getting the ball back once your Labrador has found it!

Learn more about: Labrador Temperament & Personality Traits

Does the Labrador have any common health issues?

Although the Labrador Retriever is an overall healthy breed, like with any breed, they are predisposed to certain conditions. Some health issues that commonly affect Labs are:

Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: These joint problems can lead to discomfort and arthritis.
Hip Joint Laxity: This condition can result in arthritis over time.
Ear Infections: Labs are more susceptible to ear issues due to their floppy ears.
Obesity: Labradors love to eat, so it’s important to manage their diet to prevent weight gain.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This eye condition can lead to vision loss.

To ensure that your Labrador gets the best treatment if faced with an unexpected illness, it’s important to purchase pet insurance, just like with other dogs. Though plans vary, insurance can cover up to 90% of your vet’s bills.

Learn more about: Common Labrador Health Issues

What is the lifespan of a Labrador?

Provided they maintain a healthy weight and get the right amount of exercise, a Labrador Retriever can live to the age of 10 or 12 years.

Generally, large breed dogs have shorter lifespans than small breeds. This is because larger dogs age more quickly than their smaller counterparts, and this makes fatal health conditions more likely.

How much does a Labrador need to be fed?

When it comes to feeding a Labrador Retriever, there are a few different dog food options to choose from.

You can feed your dog wet food, kibble (dry dog food), cooked food or raw food. These options vary in price but should all provide your Labrador with the nutrients they need.

To keep mealtimes interesting, most owners opt for a combination of different foods, for example, a bowl with half kibble and half wet food twice a day.

We recommend choosing high-quality puppy food for young pups because the early stages are crucially important in your Lab’s development.

Learn more about: What to Feed a Labrador? Diet & Feeding Chart

How much can you expect to pay for a Labrador in Australia?

Because they’re so high in demand, Labs aren’t a cheap choice of pet. Given how much it costs to look after a dog, it’s essential to consider your financial stability before buying or adopting a Labrador Retriever.

When shopping for a Labrador pup, avoid breeders that offer suspiciously low prices. Though the bargain may be tempting, puppy farms breed in unethical conditions. Your pup may have even inherited health conditions that you’re unaware of.

In Australia, a Labrador puppy costs between $2,000 and $5,000. The exact amount you pay will vary depending on factors like bloodlines, sex and location.

Learn more about: Labrador Prices In Australia

Labrador FAQs

Is a Labrador Retriever puppy hard to train?

Due to their high intelligence, Labrador Retriever puppies are easy to train. If disobedience is an issue, ensuring your pup gets plenty of exercise should help to keep it calm during training sessions.

Do Labrador Retrievers need two walks a day?

If your Lab’s only type of exertion is walking, he will require two walks per day. This should total a minimum of 80 minutes of high-intensity exercise, though this can vary slightly between dogs.

To ensure your pet gets adequate exercise, we recommend engaging them in energetic play and canine sports in addition to walks.

Is it fine to adopt an adult dog?

Because adopted Lab puppies are more sought after, shelters are often full of adult dogs in need of a loving and stable home.

Although an adult may prove harder to train than young Labrador puppies, most dogs will have received some training in their previous home or shelter. Furthermore, because the rescue dog is already fully grown, you know what to expect in terms of size and personality.

Adopting a fully grown dog can be a great option for pet lovers.

Are Labrador dog breeds friendly?

Though they’re calmer than other dog breeds (like Border Collies and Cockapoos), Labrador Retrievers generally have a lovable nature. This makes them an excellent family pet.

Though they often have an independent streak, Labrador dogs are loyal and certainly friendly.