Labrador Retriever
The world's favourite family dog.
The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large sporting dog and the most popular breed in much of the world. Friendly, smart and endlessly willing, it suits active families, first-time owners and working roles alike.
Great points
- Gentle and patient with children
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Loves water, fetch and the outdoors
- Sociable with people and other dogs
Things to consider
- Sheds heavily, especially twice a year
- Needs a lot of daily exercise
- Gains weight easily without portion control
- Stays mouthy and puppyish for years
The story
Bred to haul fishing nets and retrieve game from the icy waters of Newfoundland, the Labrador's soft mouth and tireless drive made it the most popular dog on the planet, and a top choice for guide, service and detection work.
Training
Labs are quick learners that thrive on reward-based training. Start early socialisation and basic obedience, and always give them a job to burn energy or they will invent their own.
Grooming
The short double coat is low effort, a weekly brush most of the year and more during seasonal sheds. Bathe occasionally and keep the floppy ears clean and dry.
Food & diet
About 2.5 to 3 cups of quality kibble a day, split into two meals. Labs live to eat and gain weight easily, so measure every portion and go easy on treats.
Exercise
High needs, at least 60 minutes of running, fetch or swimming daily, plus mental work to prevent boredom chewing.
Health to watch
Watch for hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, and ear infections. Keeping them lean protects the joints.
Fun fact. A Labrador's nose is so precise that the breed works in airports, search and rescue, and even medical detection.
