Labrador Retriever (Dog)
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Labrador Retriever

Dog · large size
Lifespan10–13 yrs
Adult weight25–36 kg
Energy4 out of 5
Grooming2 out of 5
Trainability5 out of 5

Temperament

FriendlyOutgoingEven-temperedGentleEager to please

Good with

Kids Apartments First-time owners
LargeTypically a large dog — most adults weigh over roughly 25 kg. Individual dogs vary, so treat this as a starting point, not a guarantee.
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Energy & exercise

As a large dog, a Labrador Retriever does best with daily walks plus time to sniff, explore, and stretch their legs. Dogs are working animals at heart — a mix of physical exercise and light mental work (training games, food puzzles, new routes) keeps them settled at home. Match the intensity to the individual dog and your vet's guidance.

Temperament & playdates

Dogs are social by nature and most enjoy meeting other dogs when introductions are calm and on neutral ground. Good play tends to be loose, bouncy, and mutual, with plenty of breaks. A Labrador Retriever's manners come far more from socialization and training than from breed alone, so early, positive exposure to other pets and people pays off for life.

Everyday care

Plan for fresh water, a complete diet portioned to keep a healthy weight, routine grooming, and regular veterinary checkups including core vaccinations. Coat care varies with the individual coat rather than a single rule. This is general orientation, not medical advice — your vet knows your Labrador Retriever best.

Health — what owners watch for

Well-documented conditions the Labrador Retriever can be predisposed to. Responsible breeders screen for many of these, and plenty of Labrador Retrievers never develop them — but they are worth knowing before you commit.

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity (strong food drive)
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Exercise-induced collapse

General information, not veterinary advice — always talk to your vet.

Did you know? The most registered dog breed in the US for three decades running, and a mainstay of assistance and detection work.

General, species-level orientation — not veterinary advice. Every animal is an individual; your vet knows yours best.

Labrador Retriever FAQ

How long do Labrador Retrievers live?

A Labrador Retriever typically lives 10–13 years. Lifespan varies with genetics, weight, dental care, and routine veterinary checkups — good day-to-day care genuinely moves the number.

How big does a Labrador Retriever get?

Most adult Labrador Retrievers weigh around 25–36 kg. Individuals vary with sex, build, and diet, so treat this as a typical range rather than a guarantee.

Is a Labrador Retriever easy to train?

Labrador Retrievers are generally quick to learn and eager to please. As with any dog, reward-based training and early, positive socialization matter far more than breed reputation alone.

What health issues affect Labrador Retrievers?

Labrador Retrievers can be predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity (strong food drive), progressive retinal atrophy, and exercise-induced collapse. General information, not veterinary advice — always talk to your vet.

Is a Labrador Retriever good for playdates?

Dogs are social by nature and most enjoy meeting other dogs when introductions are calm and on neutral ground. Good play tends to be loose, bouncy, and mutual, with plenty of breaks. A Labrador Retriever's manners come far more from socialization and training than from breed alone, so early, positive exposure to other pets and people pays off for life.

How much space and activity does a Labrador Retriever need?

As a large dog, a Labrador Retriever does best with daily walks plus time to sniff, explore, and stretch their legs. Dogs are working animals at heart — a mix of physical exercise and light mental work (training games, food puzzles, new routes) keeps them settled at home. Match the intensity to the individual dog and your vet's guidance.

What does everyday Labrador Retriever care look like?

Plan for fresh water, a complete diet portioned to keep a healthy weight, routine grooming, and regular veterinary checkups including core vaccinations. Coat care varies with the individual coat rather than a single rule. This is general orientation, not medical advice — your vet knows your Labrador Retriever best.

Can I meet Labrador Retrievers near me on Petpair?

Yes — Petpair matches dogs for playdates and pedigree matches, and discovery is location-aware from the first swipe. Build a free profile for your large dog and start meeting Labrador Retrievers and other dogs in your area.

Breeds similar to the Labrador Retriever

Same species, matched on size, energy, and temperament — a natural next read if the Labrador Retriever caught your eye.

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