Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever has been Britain's most popular dog for decades — friendly, biddable and endlessly food-motivated. Originally a gundog, it needs real exercise and thrives on having a job to do.
Key facts
Lifespan
10–12 years
Height
55–57 cm
Weight
25–36 kg
Exercise
~90 mins/day
Grooming
Low
Shedding
High
Training
Easy to train
First-time owners
Suitable
About the Labrador Retriever
Bred in Newfoundland and refined in Britain as a retrieving gundog, the Labrador combines a soft mouth with a genuinely sociable temperament. They mature slowly, staying boisterous well into their second year, and their appetite is legendary — obesity is one of the breed's biggest welfare problems. Labradors suit active families who will train consistently and enjoy the outdoors in all weathers.
Living with a Labrador Retriever
House with a garden suits best; they cope with less space if genuinely exercised.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hereditary cataract
- Exercise-induced collapse (EIC)
- Strong tendency to obesity
Ask the breeder for
- BVA/KC hip and elbow scores for both parents
- Annual BVA/KC/ISDS eye testing
- DNA tests for PRA (prcd), EIC and CNM
Buying a Labrador Retriever
Ask to see the parents' hip and elbow scores in writing and compare them against the breed median — a low score matters more than the colour of the coat. Be wary of anyone marketing 'rare' silver Labradors at a premium.
Read the full safe-buying guideLabrador Retrievers for sale
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All dogs for saleLabrador Retriever FAQs
How long do Labrador Retrievers live?
A Labrador Retriever typically lives 10–12 years.
How much exercise does a Labrador Retriever need?
Around 90 minutes of daily exercise for a healthy adult, plus mental stimulation. Puppies need considerably less until their joints have matured.
Are Labrador Retrievers good for first-time owners?
Yes — Labrador Retrievers are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a Labrador Retriever breeder have done?
BVA/KC hip and elbow scores for both parents. Annual BVA/KC/ISDS eye testing. DNA tests for PRA (prcd), EIC and CNM.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.