Labrador retriever breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Labrador retrievers
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Labrador retriever breed
Labrador Retrievers originate from the Newfoundland region of Canada, where they were initially bred by fishermen to retrieve ducks and other game from water. Their journey to becoming one of the world's most beloved breeds began when they were taken back to England and further developed into the loyal and versatile dogs we know today.
Labradors are not only popular family pets but also excel as working dogs, thriving in roles such as guide dogs, gun dogs, and even search and rescue. They are renowned for their happy and intelligent nature, exceptional sense of smell, and a love of food, which makes them highly trainable.
This breed has captured hearts worldwide, appearing as iconic fictional characters like Marley from "Marley and Me" and the Andrex puppy. Labradors have also achieved real-world fame, such as Endal, the most decorated dog in history, who earned numerous awards for his gallantry and service, including the PDSA's Gold Medal for Animal Gallantry.
Labradors are also central to BorrowMyDoggy’s story, as the inspiration for the platform came from Aston, a chocolate Labrador borrowed by our founder, Rikke.
Weight, height & life expectancy
Physically, Labradors range in height from 54 to 57 cm and weigh between 25 and 36 kg, with working/American types being lighter and more agile compared to the stockier show/English types. Their lifespan typically spans 11 to 13 years, but some, like Adjutant, the oldest Labrador on record, have lived to the remarkable age of 27 years and 3 months!
With their versatility, loving nature, and rich history, Labrador Retrievers continue to be one of the most cherished and admired breeds around the world.
What is the temperament of Labradors like?
Labradors are renowned for their friendly, intelligent, and good-natured temperament, making them one of the most popular and beloved dog breeds worldwide. Their loyal and affectionate nature ensures they form strong bonds with their families, thriving as both family pets and working dogs.
Labradors are generally patient and gentle, making them an excellent choice for households with children. They have a reputation for adoring children and their famously kind and loving disposition. Their social nature also extends to other animals, as they typically get along well with other pets when properly introduced.
Playful and full of energy, Labradors excel in activities that allow them to retrieve and explore, such as fetching games. Their love for water is undeniable, so they’ll enthusiastically enjoy a swim—just ensure they stay in safe areas and don’t venture too far.
Labradors’ combination of intelligence and eagerness to please makes them highly trainable and adaptable to various lifestyles. Whether they’re playing with children, swimming, or simply lounging with their family, Labradors bring a sense of joy, companionship, and warmth to every moment.
Our Labrador retriever community
"Annie loves cuddles and attention. She loves snuggling on the sofa and walks. She is really happy when she has the chance to swim. She likes being around people and being amongst others. She’s great around other dogs and loves to play. We have a young child and she is really friendly with them."
Annie's owner, Lucia from Penrith.
"Max loves to give licks and cuddles and look adoringly into your eyes, which will make your heart just melt! His favourite hobbies are walking, swimming, playing fetch and playing with his other doggy friends, although he's equally content snuggled up on the sofa next to you."
Max's owner, Diana from Henley-on-Thames.
What kind of exercise do Labradors need?
Labradors are an energetic and active breed that thrives on regular physical and mental stimulation. A healthy adult Labrador typically requires around 2 hours of exercise daily, although this can vary depending on their individual needs, age, and fitness level. Their exercise routine should include a mix of walking, running, swimming, and opportunities to engage their senses through sniffing and investigating their surroundings.
Exercise for Puppies:
While Labrador puppies are full of energy, their exercise needs are different to avoid overexertion and protect their developing joints. A general guideline is 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, split across multiple short sessions throughout the day. Puppies should not transition to full adult exercise levels until they are at least 18 months old and fully grown.
Activities Labradors Enjoy:
- Retrieving Games: Labradors excel at retrieving, making activities like fetch or flyball ideal. These not only provide physical exercise but also engage their natural instincts.
- Swimming: Labradors are natural water lovers. If you have access to a safe, controlled area, swimming is a great low-impact activity they’ll adore. Throwing a floatable toy for them to retrieve adds extra fun.
- Mental Stimulation: Incorporate activities that engage their brains, such as treat-hiding games or puzzle toys. These help combat boredom and reduce the likelihood of undesirable behaviours.
Importance of Balance:
Without adequate exercise and stimulation, Labradors can become bored, which may lead to mischief or destructive behaviours. Regular mental and physical activities keep them well-behaved, easier to train, and content in their daily lives.
By tailoring their exercise to their age and providing a variety of activities, you can ensure your Labrador stays fit, happy, and healthy.
Do Labradors Need a Lot of Grooming?
Labradors are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but regular care is essential to keep their thick, water-resistant coat healthy. They come in a variety of colours, including yellow (ranging from light yellow to fox red), black, chocolate, and liver.
Coat Care:
Labradors have a double coat, consisting of a dense, waterproof undercoat and a sleek outer coat. To maintain their coat:
- Weekly Brushing: Brush your Labrador about once a week to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. During their shedding seasons in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing (2-3 times per week) can help manage their increased moulting.
- Bathing: Bath them every 4-6 weeks, or as needed if they get dirty. Over washing can strip the coat of its natural oils, so only bathe them more frequently if necessary.
Shedding:
Labradors typically shed twice a year, during the spring and autumn, when they "blow" their undercoat. During these periods, using a de-shedding tool or a slicker brush can help keep their shedding under control.
Dental Care:
Like any breed, regular tooth brushing is essential for their overall health. Aim for twice daily with a dog-specific toothpaste, but even a few times a week can significantly reduce the risk of dental issues.
With consistent brushing, occasional baths, and routine dental care, Labradors will not only look their best but also stay healthy and comfortable.
Are Labradors Easy to Train?
Labradors are widely regarded as one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Their combination of intelligence, energy, and eagerness to please makes them highly responsive to training. Many Labradors are particularly food-motivated, meaning they'll happily work hard for a treat, which can be a huge advantage during training sessions.
Training Tips for Labradors:
- Consistency is Key: Labradors thrive on consistent training methods. Setting clear rules and sticking to them helps prevent confusion and ensures they understand what is expected of them.
- Keep it Engaging: Their intelligence means Labradors can get bored with repetitive tasks. Use fun and varied training sessions to hold their attention and make learning enjoyable.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward-based training using treats, praise, and play works best for this breed. Labradors respond especially well to encouragement and rewards for good behaviour.
Their ability to learn quickly and adapt to various tasks is why Labradors are often chosen as working and assistance dogs, excelling in roles such as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs.
With their friendly temperament and willingness to work alongside humans, Labradors are not only great family pets but also reliable partners in a variety of professional roles.
What Do Labradors Eat?
Labradors are known for their hearty appetites—many owners joke that it's easier to list what they won’t eat! To keep them healthy, a balanced and nutritious diet is essential.
Adult Labradors:
Feed your Labrador a complete, high-quality dog food twice daily. While they can enjoy occasional treats, be mindful of the extra calories, as Labradors are prone to weight gain, especially the English/show type.
Puppies:
- Start with four meals a day, then reduce to three meals at around 4 months old, and finally to two meals by 6 months of age.
- Transition them to adult food gradually between 12 and 18 months. Your vet or pet food supplier can recommend the best food and schedule based on your puppy’s needs.
Weight Management:
Labradors often don’t have an "off-switch" when it comes to eating, so portion control is critical. Regular exercise and monitoring their body condition are key to preventing obesity. You should be able to:
- Feel their ribs: They should be easy to feel but not count.
- See their waist: From above, they should have a visible, neat waist.
- Check their tuck: When viewed from the side, their chest should slope up to their abdomen.
If you’re concerned about your Labrador being overweight or underweight, consult your vet for tailored advice. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake to keep them fit and healthy.
Are Labradors Healthy?
Labradors are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain health conditions. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and consistent exercise can help reduce risks.
Common Health Concerns in Labradors:
Airways:
- Laryngeal Paralysis: Often seen in older dogs, this condition causes the windpipe’s opening to collapse, making breathing difficult.
Bones and Joints:
- Elbow Dysplasia: Improper alignment of bones in the elbow joint, leading to discomfort and arthritis.
- Hip Dysplasia: Misalignment between the thigh bone and pelvis, often causing pain and mobility issues.
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint condition, often secondary to dysplasia, causing stiffness and pain.
Eyes:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic condition causing retinal deterioration and eventual blindness.
Hormonal:
- Hypothyroidism: A disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and coat changes.
Neurological:
- Epilepsy: A brain condition that can cause recurring seizures.
This list isn’t comprehensive, so if you have any concerns about your Labrador’s health, or want to discuss whether this breed is right for you, consult your veterinarian.
Vet top tip
Labradors are prone to weight gain, so portion control is crucial. Always measure their food accurately and use their body condition as a guide. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Avoid overfeeding treats—stick to a maximum of 10% of their daily calorie intake—and choose low-calorie options for training rewards. Regular exercise combined with a balanced diet will help keep your Labrador fit, healthy, and happy!
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.
