Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
57–62 cm (male)
55–60 cm (female)
WEIGHT
29–36 kg (male)
25–32 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
10–12 years
Labrador Retriever: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Labrador Retriever isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Labrador Retriever's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly, outgoing, and gentle nature. They typically get along well with children, adults, and other animals, making them popular family companions.
Key Personality Traits
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Strengths
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
Challenges
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
Protect your Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Labrador Retrievers are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Highly trainable
Overall rating
Labradors are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them responsive and quick learners during training. They perform well in obedience, service work, and various canine sports.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy levels and requires regular physical exercise, such as walks, runs, and play. Mental stimulation through interactive games or training is also important to prevent boredom.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Labrador Retrievers are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Labrador Retriever would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Apartment Living
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Active Lifestyle
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Kids
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Multiple Pets
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Being Left Alone
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Labrador Retrievers compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Labrador Retriever
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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