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Labrador Retriever

Sporting Group

Loyal, friendly and energetic

Labrador Retriever

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Breed Overview

The Labrador Retriever is an adaptable, friendly, and loving breed that makes an excellent companion for families and active individuals. Renowned for their intelligence and easy trainability, they are not only great family pets but also excel in various roles such as service dogs, therapy dogs, and working dogs in fields like search and rescue. Their energetic nature requires regular exercise, making them best suited for active families or those with access to outdoor spaces where they can explore and play.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Large
  • Height Males 22.5-24.5 inches, Females 21.5-23.5 inches
  • Weight Males 65-80 lbs, Females 55-70 lbs
  • Life Span Approximately 10-12 years
  • Coat Short, dense, and water-resistant
  • Color Black, yellow, chocolate
  • Grooming Moderate. Regular brushing is needed to manage shedding
  • Temperament Friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited. Known for their intelligence and eagerness to please
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise High. Labs are energetic and require regular exercise
  • Trainability Highly trainable and often used as service and therapy dogs due to their intelligence and good nature
  • Socialization Important for maintaining their friendly nature
  • Grooming Moderate. Regular brushing is needed to manage shedding
  • Health Issues Generally healthy, but prone to conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, and heart problems
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Excellent family pet; known for being good with children
  • Suitable Living Space Adapts well to both houses and apartments, provided they have enough exercise

About the Breed

Labradors are well-regarded for their versatility, serving as hunting companions, service dogs, and family pets. They are social, friendly, and highly trainable, which makes them excellent for various roles.

History of the Breed

Originally from Newfoundland, not Labrador, Canada, the breed was used by fishermen to help retrieve fishing nets and fish that had escaped hooks. They were later brought to England in the 1800s, where they were refined and standardized as a breed.

Newfoundland and Labrador Canada

Fun Facts About the Labrador Retriever

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Labradors are often used as guide dogs due to their intelligence and good temperament.

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They have webbed toes which makes them excellent swimmers.

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Labs are known for their "soft mouth," a trait where they can carry items gently without causing damage.

    What To Expect When Caring For a Labrador Retriever

    Health

    Generally healthy, but prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disorders, and obesity. Regular health checks are recommended.

    Grooming

    Their coat requires regular brushing to manage shedding, and they only need occasional baths. Ear cleaning and nail trimming are also important.

    Exercise

    Labs need daily exercise like walking, playing fetch, or swimming to maintain their physical and mental health.

    Training

    They are highly trainable and excel in obedience. Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended.

    Nutrition

    A balanced diet is crucial. Labs are prone to obesity, so it's important to monitor their food intake and avoid overfeeding.

    Labrador Retrievers make excellent companions for a wide range of individuals and families. Their adaptability, friendly nature, and eagerness to please, combined with their intelligence, make them an ideal choice for many. With proper care, exercise, and training, a Lab can be a joyful and loyal addition to any home.

    Labrador Retriever Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

    Labrador Retrievers are generally robust and healthy dogs, but they are predisposed to certain health conditions. Being aware of these and conducting recommended tests can help ensure a long, healthy life for your Lab.

    Description: A genetic condition where the joints develop improperly, leading to arthritis and lameness.

    Recommended Test: Hip and Elbow Evaluation: X-rays or other imaging tests to screen for dysplasia.

    Description: Labs have a propensity to gain weight, which can lead to other health problems.

    Recommended Test: Weight Monitoring and Management: Regular check-ups to monitor weight and advice on diet and exercise.

    Description: A degenerative eye disorder that can eventually lead to blindness.

    Recommended Test: Eye Examination: Regular check-ups by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to screen for PRA and other eye conditions.

    Description: Due to their floppy ears, Labs are prone to ear infections, which require regular monitoring.

    Recommended Test: Ear Examinations: Regular veterinary checks and cleaning to prevent and treat ear infections.

    Description: A genetic condition that causes muscular weakness, collapse, and disorientation after strenuous exercise.

    Recommended Test: Genetic Testing for EIC: A DNA test is available to identify dogs carrying the gene for EIC.

    Description: Including tricuspid valve dysplasia and myocardial diseases.

    Recommended Test: Cardiac Exam: Regular heart screenings, especially as the dog ages, to detect any potential heart issues.

    Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

    Description: A genetic condition where the joints develop improperly, leading to arthritis and lameness.

    Recommended Test: Hip and Elbow Evaluation: X-rays or other imaging tests to screen for dysplasia.

    Obesity

    Description: Labs have a propensity to gain weight, which can lead to other health problems.

    Recommended Test: Weight Monitoring and Management: Regular check-ups to monitor weight and advice on diet and exercise.

    Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

    Description: A degenerative eye disorder that can eventually lead to blindness.

    Recommended Test: Eye Examination: Regular check-ups by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to screen for PRA and other eye conditions.

    Ear Infections

    Description: Due to their floppy ears, Labs are prone to ear infections, which require regular monitoring.

    Recommended Test: Ear Examinations: Regular veterinary checks and cleaning to prevent and treat ear infections.

    Exercise-induced collapse (EIC)

    Description: A genetic condition that causes muscular weakness, collapse, and disorientation after strenuous exercise.

    Recommended Test: Genetic Testing for EIC: A DNA test is available to identify dogs carrying the gene for EIC.

    Heart Diseases

    Description: Including tricuspid valve dysplasia and myocardial diseases.

    Recommended Test: Cardiac Exam: Regular heart screenings, especially as the dog ages, to detect any potential heart issues.

    By proactively managing these health aspects and ensuring regular veterinary care, Labrador Retriever owners can help their pets maintain a high quality of life.

    Prescription Medication Assistance for Labrador Retrievers

    The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

    How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Labrador Retriever?

    Caring for a Labrador Retriever involves a variety of expenses that are essential for their health and well-being. The annual cost can vary depending on factors such as your geographical location, the dog’s age, health, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

    A purebred Labrador Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

    Initial Cost

    $1200 - 3000

    Potential Additional Costs:

    When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Labrador Retriever enthusiasts.

    Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

    Initial Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

    High-quality dog food is essential for Labs.

    Estimated Cost

    $250 - 700

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Learn more about the best quality dog food for Labrador Retrievers.

    Labs have relatively low grooming needs but do shed.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

    Labrador Retrievers require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

    Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Labrador Retriever's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

    Your Labrador Retriever will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

    Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

    Estimated Cost

    $500 - 1000

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

    Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

    If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

    A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

    Estimated Cost

    $50 - 100

    Total Estimated Annual Cost:

    $2700 - $6800

    It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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