Sporting Group
Labrador Retriever
Champion Pedigree
Friendly
Versatile
Retriever
Originally bred by fishermen in Newfoundland to retrieve nets and fish from icy water, the Labrador Retriever has become the most popular dog breed in much of the English-speaking world. Friendly, biddable, and endlessly food-motivated, it excels equally as a family pet, gun dog, and service animal.
Lifespan
10–12 years.
Did You Know?
Labradors have been the single most registered breed in the United States for over three decades running.
Breed Traits
Size
Males 22.5–24.5 in. tall, 65–80 lbs; females 21.5–23.5 in. tall, 55–70 lbs.
Energy Level
High — needs substantial daily exercise, especially in its first few years.
Coat & Grooming
Short, dense, water-resistant double coat; heavy shedder.
Good With Families
Exceptionally friendly and patient with children; a favorite first family dog.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Lab
Origin
Newfoundland, Canada, refined in England in the 19th century.
Typical Litter Size
5 to 10 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Friendly, eager to please, and food-motivated to a fault; generally easy to train but prone to overeating without portion discipline.
Coat Colors
Black, yellow, and chocolate.
Working Roles
Waterfowl retrieving, guide and service dog work, search and rescue, and detection.
Health & Wellness
Prone to obesity and hip/elbow dysplasia — both manageable with attentive weight control and breeder screening.
Notable Labrador Retrievers
Guide Dogs
One of the most common breeds trained as guide dogs for the blind worldwide.
Registry Champions
The most registered dog breed in the U.S. for over 30 consecutive years.
Endal
A celebrated service Labrador honored for extraordinary acts of assistance to his disabled owner.
Labrador Retriever Gifts
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