Got a Labrador Retriever? Check your pet with Pawcode
Snap a few photos and let Pawcode's AI highlight breed traits, coat condition and things worth showing your vet — for cats and dogs alike.
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Dogs
Labrador Retriever
The world's most popular family dog.
The Labrador Retriever is a friendly, outgoing gundog originally bred to retrieve fish and waterfowl in Newfoundland. Consistently one of the most popular breeds worldwide, it is intelligent, trainable and endlessly enthusiastic — the archetypal family and working dog.
OriginCanada (Newfoundland)
SizeLarge
Life span10–12 years
Weight25–36 kg (55–80 lb)
CoatShort, dense, water-resistant double coat
Temperament & personality
- Friendly
- Outgoing
- Trainable
- Energetic
Labradors are social, patient and eager to please, which makes them superb family pets, guide dogs and search-and-rescue partners. They stay puppy-like for years, need plenty of exercise and love water and retrieving games. Under-exercised Labs can become bored and mouthy, so daily activity is essential.
At a glance
Activity level3 / 3
Affection3 / 3
Shedding3 / 3
Grooming needs1 / 3
Vocalness2 / 3
Scale: low to high (1–3)
Grooming & care
The short double coat is easy to brush but sheds heavily, especially twice a year — expect weekly brushing (daily during moults) and regular vacuuming. Labs are food-obsessed and gain weight easily, so strict portion control, measured treats and lots of exercise are vital.
Common colours
- Black
- Yellow
- Chocolate
Good with
- Families
- Children
- Other pets
- First-time owners
- Apartment living
Health tendencies to watch
Every breed has predispositions. These are things worth discussing with your vet — not diagnoses.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia — reputable breeders screen (score) hips and elbows
- Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) — DNA-testable
- Progressive retinal atrophy — DNA-testable
- Strong tendency toward obesity, which stresses joints
Informational only. Pawcode is not a veterinary service and does not replace professional advice.
Fun facts
1
Labs have been the most registered breed in the US for decades
2
Their otter-like tail acts as a rudder when swimming
3
They are the top choice for guide-dog and assistance programmes worldwide
Frequently asked questions
How much exercise does a Labrador need?
At least an hour or two of active exercise daily — walks, retrieving games and swimming — plus mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Do Labradors shed a lot?
Yes. Their double coat sheds year-round and heavily twice a year, so regular brushing and cleaning are part of Lab ownership.