There are multiple reasons Labrador Retrievers are currently ranked the second most popular dog breed in the U.S. according to the American Kennel Club — their friendly, affable nature, the ease with which they fit into family life, their intelligence and eagerness to learn… All these qualities combine in a breed that appeals to a broad range of dog parents.

Labrador Retrievers are bred from the now-extinct St John’s Water dogs from the Canadian island of Newfoundland, where they were employed as gundogs, helping hunters retrieve fish and game. 

It was after British nobles took a liking to the breed in the early 1800s that their popularity really began to rocket — they started to be seen as the ultimate status symbol among wealthy Brits, who then began to breed and train them for hunting and retrieving, for which it became an expert. 

The dog’s short-haired double coat meant that its wet fur did not freeze once it was out of the water in winter, and its thick, tapered ‘otter tail’ provided it with a powerful propeller/rotor while swimming, powering them through the water while also helping them to turn. 

People love Labradors for their friendly, kindly, enthusiastic, unaggressive nature and their loving companionship, making them the ideal dog for families across the country. As a result, the breed was number 1 in the U.S. from 1991 until 2022, when it was finally ousted by the French Bulldog. 

General Characteristics of a Labrador:

• Origin: Britain.
• Size: Medium.
• Height: 22.5-24.5 inches to the shoulder (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female).
• Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female).
• Lifespan: 11-13 years.

Appearance:

• Coat: Double — with a short, coarse outer coat, and a soft, water-resistant undercoat.
• Colors: Black, chocolate, yellow.
• Build: Strong, athletic, muscular, sturdy.

Labrador Retriever Temperament:

• Gentle: Enthusiastic and outgoing, the breed is well-known for being a great family pet.
• Energetic: Labradors are full of life — regular exercise will ensure they do not turn pent-up energy into destructive behavior.
• Intelligent: The breed is highly intelligent, and Labradors are often employed as service dogs, working with the blind and disabled.

Training and Exercising:

• Training: Due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, Labradors are highly receptive to training.
• Exercise: Daily exercise is essential as they are a high-energy breed — swimming, retrieving, agility or hunting are some of the breed’s favorite pastimes.

Grooming:

• Shedding: Due to their short hair, shedding is not a major issue.

Interesting Facts About Labrador Retrievers:

• As well as their ‘otter tail’ which helps them in the water, Labradors also have webbed feet, making them truly happy in the wet stuff.
• In addition to making perfect service dogs, these clever dogs also work as drug and bomb detection dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue, and have even been trained to detect cancer in humans (their smell is 10,000 times more sensitive than humans’).
• Labradors are prone to obesity. As they are known as dogs that ‘never get full’, Labrador parents have to watch their dogs’ food intake carefully. Around 60% of Labradors are overweight, and this can lead to health problems including diabetes, cardiac issues and joint problems.

Labrador Retriever Price:

The average cost of a Labrador Retriever in the U.S. varies depending on the dog’s pedigree, the breeder’s reputation, location, and whether the dog is intended for show, breeding, or as a pet. Here’s a general guide:

Show Quality or Breeding Quality Labrador Retriever:

Price Range: $1,500-$2,000

If buying a Labrador Retriever puppy or specific breeds of Labrador Retriever, the price will be towards the more expensive end of the spectrum.

Rescue or Adoption:

Adoption Fee: Around $200

A Labrador Retriever adopted from a rescue organization or shelter generally costs less. This fee often includes initial veterinary care and spaying/neutering.

The Best Food for Labradors:

Wellness Core Large Breed Adult

This food is packed with high-quality protein, glucosamine, and chondroitin to support Labradors’ muscle maintenance and joint health, crucial for their active lifestyle. It also contains balanced nutrients, probiotics, and omega fatty acids to promote healthy digestion, a shiny coat, and overall well-being.

For more choices: See our Best Food for Labradors page.