LABRADOR

Breed Group: Gun Dog

For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club

Average height: 53 - 64 cms (21 - 25 in)

Average Weight: 25 - 36 kgs (55 - 80 lbs)

Coat Length: Short

Life Span: 12 - 14 years

Colours: black, yellow, liver/chocolate

HISTORY

Labradors are originally from Newfoundland, which was renowned for the fishing industry starting towards the end of the 16th century. During the fishing season, labs were used to facilitate the retrieval of nets, lost lines, and carts loaded with fish that were being pulled by boats. Today, the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States for their friendly, spirited, and gregarious nature.

L.E.G.S.

Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.

Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.

Shedding

minimal <> considerable

Grooming

minimal <> likely to need professional grooming

Barking

relatively quiet <> very vocal

Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock

low<>high

Response to strangers

happy to greet everyone <> very wary

Affectionate with family

not at all<>very cuddly

Playful

serious<>very playful

Focus on handler (bond)

independent thinker<>very biddable

Excitable/Impulsive

very calm<>easily aroused

Motivated

laid back<>obsessive

Easy to care for

suitable for inexperienced<>challenging

Exercise needs

minimal<>hours daily

Off-lead exercise needs

happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom

Enrichment needs

basic<>needs challenges

WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR LABRADOR

They love to work alongside you and seek your partnership which makes them keen to train
They love a good cuddle on the couch.

WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH

They tend to be extreme shedders
The working lines need mental stimulation in the form of training, nosework, search and rescue, as well as physical exercise with either walks, hikes or at home physical exercise
They can become obsessive with certain toys
There is a high incidence of arthritis in this breed

YOUR LABRADOR PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS

Labs can be easily excitable and impulsive as adolescents but will calm down and learn to think on their own with training. They are a resilient and easy to train breed. Countersurfing can start when they are puppies if they don't receive enough stimulation or supervision. They need a great deal of mental stimulation, especially in the working lines.

YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:

Loose leash walking
Ignoring distractions
Enthusiastic greetings

YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY

Regular exercise sessions are non-negotiable; a tired Lab is a happy Lab
Engage in interactive play and training sessions to strengthen your bond.
Set clear boundaries early on to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults.
Provide them with chew toys to cater to their natural instinct to retrieve and mouth.

UPBRINGING

Raising a Labrador is a rewarding experience. Their intelligence, combined with their eagerness to please, makes training a relatively smooth process. However, consistency is key. Positive reinforcement techniques, like treats and praise, work best. Socialization, both with humans and other animals, is crucial to ensure they grow up to be sociable and well-adjusted.

LIFESTYLE

They are happy to be at home with their owners or enjoying the outdoors with their family. Labs are active dogs that require regular exercise. Whether it's a game of fetch, a long walk, or a swim, they're always up for some physical activity. They thrive in families where they're involved in daily activities and get ample playtime.

INTERESTS & HOBBIES

They are natural retrievers, so games of fetch are almost always a hit. They enjoy walking, hiking, scentwork, and search and rescue.

EDUCATION

Training should be consistent, positive, and engaging. Labs are quick learners, but early training is crucial to ensure they understand boundaries. Puppy classes can provide them with essential socialization and give owners the tools to handle their energetic nature.