Labrador Retriever — breed guide
The classic family all-rounder: a biddable, water-loving retriever that thrives on exercise, food and company.
At a glance
- Group
- sporting
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 25–36 kg (55–79 lb)
- Life span
- 11–13 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, water-resistant double coat
Living with a Labrador Retriever
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Light grooming — a brush now and then.
- Heavy shedding, especially in season.
- Exceptionally trainable — among the easiest to teach.
- Quiet.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Friendly · Outgoing · High-spirited · Eager to please
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Obesity
- Exercise-induced collapse
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Did you know
Labs held the top spot as America’s most popular breed for 31 straight years — the longest reign of any breed.
Questions people ask
Is a Labrador Retriever good with kids?
Generally yes. Labrador Retrievers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Labrador Retriever good with cats?
Usually yes. Labrador Retrievers typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Labrador Retriever need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Labrador Retriever handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Labrador Retriever's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.