FAQs

The Labrador retriever is one of several kinds of retriever, a type of gun dog. A breed characteristic is webbed paws for swimming, useful for the breed’s original purpose of retrieving fishing nets. This and their subsequent use as hunting companions, gave them the name retriever. It is also the most popular breed of assistance dogs.

The dogs of this breed are very loving, kind and compassionate to their masters. The Labrador is the most popular breed of dog (by registered ownership) in the world.

Labradors are a well-balanced, friendly and versatile breed, adaptable to a wide range of functions as well as making very good pets. They have a reputation as a very even-tempered breed and an excellent family dog (including a good reputation with children of all ages and other animals).

Typically, Labradors are athletic, and love to swim, play catch and retrieve games, and are good with young children. They often enjoy retrieving a ball endlessly and other forms of activity (such as agility, frisbee, or flyball).

Labradors have a well-known reputation for appetite, and some individuals may be highly indiscriminate, eating digestible and non-food objects alike.

Labrador Retrievers are registered in three colours: black (a solid black colour), yellow (anything from light cream to “fox-red”), and chocolate (medium to dark brown). Some Labrador retrievers can have markings such as white patches on their chest and other areas, but most commonly they are one solid colour.

Labs are a medium-large but compact breed. Males should stand 22.5–24.5 inches (57–62 cm) tall at the withers and weigh 65–80 lb (29–36 kg). Females should stand 21.5–23.5 inches (55–60 cm) and weigh 55–70 lb (25–32 kg).

The average age of Labrador retrievers is 10–12 years.