⚡ At a glance
- Adult weight: Male 29–36 kg (65–80 lb) · Female 25–32 kg (55–70 lb)
- Life expectancy: 11–13 years
- Activity: High · 1–2 hours a day
- Best suited to: Families, active owners, first-time dog owners
Key facts
| Origin | Canada (Newfoundland), England |
|---|---|
| Height | Male 57–62 cm (22.5–24.5 in) · Female 55–60 cm (21.5–23.5 in) |
| Adult weight | Male 29–36 kg (65–80 lb) · Female 25–32 kg (55–70 lb) |
| Life expectancy | 11–13 years |
| Activity needs | High · 1–2 hours a day |
| Coat | Short, dense double coat; seasonal shedding |
| Best suited to | Families, active owners, first-time dog owners |
Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.
Temperament
Labradors are social, energetic and get on with people of all ages. Their love of food makes training easy but weight control hard. They love fetch and water.
Daily exercise
1–2 hours of activity a day: brisk walks, fetch, swimming. Mental work like scent games matters as much as exercise.
Feeding
Some Labradors carry a POMC gene change that increases appetite, making the breed very prone to obesity. Count treats in daily calories.
Example: a neutered adult Labrador Retriever at an ideal weight of 30 kg (66 lb) needs roughly 1440 kcal a day (RER × 1.6). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.
Common health problems
- Obesity
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Exercise-induced collapse (EIC): hind-leg weakness after intense exercise; genetic test available
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Ear infections
Care tips
- Brush 1–2 times a week, more when shedding
- Dry ears after swimming
- Check nails monthly
- Weigh every 2–4 weeks
Frequently asked questions
Labrador or Golden Retriever?
Both are gentle family dogs. Labradors have a shorter, easier coat; Goldens have a longer one. Both are high-energy.
Why is my Labrador always hungry?
Some Labradors have a POMC gene change that increases appetite, so portion control is very important.
How much should a Labrador weigh?
Usually 29–36 kg (65–80 lb) for males and 25–32 kg (55–70 lb) for females. Ribs should be easy to feel.