Labrador Retriever
Sporting Group (AKC) / Gundog Group (KC) · Canada — developed in Newfoundland and later refined in Great Britain in the 19th century. · Large
Also known as: Lab, Greater St. John's Dog
Breed Group
Sporting Group (AKC) / Gundog Group (KC)
Size
Large
Height
Males: 22-24 inches, Females: 21-23 inches at the shoulder
Weight
Males: 65-80 lbs, Females: 55-70 lbs
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Origin
Canada — developed in Newfoundland and later refined in Great Britain in the 19th century.
Energy Level
High — requires regular physical and mental exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Trainability
Highly Trainable — responds exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and consistency.
Description
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular and versatile dog breeds in the world. Renowned for their friendly demeanor, high intelligence, and strong work ethic, they excel as family companions, guide dogs, search-and-rescue workers, and hunting partners. They possess a sturdy, athletic build and a famously joyous personality.
Key Features
Broad head, powerful jaws, friendly intelligent expression, medium-length drop ears, 'otter tail' that is thick at the base and tapers toward the tip, and a dense water-resistant coat.
Coat Type
Short, dense, straight double coat with a weather-resistant undercoat that sheds moderately to heavily year-round.
Coat Colors
Solid black, yellow, or chocolate. The dog in the image shows a standard solid black coat.
Temperament
Friendly, outgoing, agile, highly intelligent, and eager to please with an even-tempered disposition.
Good with Children
Excellent — known for their patience, gentleness, and playful nature with kids of all ages.
Good with Other Dogs
Excellent — generally sociable and friendly toward other dogs and household pets.
Grooming Needs
Low to moderate — weekly brushing is usually sufficient, with increased frequency during seasonal shedding periods.
Exercise Requirements
High — needs at least 60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise, including fetch, swimming, and long walks.
Health Considerations
Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and exercise-induced collapse. Regular veterinary screenings recommended.
Living Conditions
Adaptable to most living situations, though they thrive best in homes with a securely fenced yard due to their high energy levels. They prefer being close to their human family indoors.
History & Origin
Descended from the St. John's water dog in Newfoundland, these dogs were originally used by fishermen to haul nets and retrieve fish. Brought to England in the 1800s, British nobles refined the breed for hunting waterfowl, officially establishing the Labrador Retriever recognized today.
Interesting Facts
Labs have webbed toes which make them exceptional swimmers. They have consistently been the most popular dog breed in the United States for over three decades.
Similar Breeds
Flat-Coated Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Golden Retriever. Labs can be distinguished from Goldens by their shorter, smoother coat and from Chessies by their less wavy coat and distinct head shape.