Labrador Retriever

Labradors are at increased risk of degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis), which can affect their mobility and quality of life.^[1]

Labradors are predisposed to skin conditions, including hot spots (pyotraumatic dermatitis), especially chocolate-coloured dogs.^[1]

Labradors have a higher risk of gastrointestinal disorders compared to crossbreed dogs.^[1]

Labradors are predisposed to dermatological (skin) disorders more broadly, compared to crossbreed dogs.^[1]

Labradors have an increased risk of tumours and cancers (neoplasia), which is also a leading cause of death in the breed.^[1]

Labradors are predisposed to musculoskeletal disorders, which are the most common recorded cause of death in the breed.^[1]

Chocolate Labradors appear to have a shorter lifespan and higher rates of ear and skin disease than black or yellow Labradors.^[1]

Labradors are prone to ear infections (otitis externa) - the most commonly recorded disorder in the breed.^[1]

Labradors have a strong tendency to become overweight or obese, partly linked to a known gene that affects appetite.^[1]

Labradors have an increased risk of tumours and cancers - neoplasia was one of the top two causes of death in the breed.^[1]

Labradors have a strong tendency to become overweight or obese, partly linked to a known gene affecting appetite.^[1]

Labradors are at increased risk of degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis), a common cause of pain and reduced mobility.^[1]

Labradors have a higher risk of gastrointestinal disorders compared to crossbred dogs.^[1]

Labradors are predisposed to dermatological (skin) disorders more broadly than crossbred dogs.^[1]

Labradors are prone to musculoskeletal disorders, which was the single most common cause of death recorded in the breed.^[1]

Labs are friendly, energetic and playful, so expect an enthusiastic greeting and a dog that wants to be actively engaged.^[1]

They need both physical and mental stimulation - a short walk alone won't be enough to keep them settled.^[1]

Bred as retrievers, they have a natural love of water, so be prepared for them to jump into any available puddle, pond or pool.^[1]

They have a soft mouth bred for carrying game gently, so mouthing during play is likely but should not be rough.^[1]

Labs are highly intelligent and trainable, responding well to clear, consistent cues from handlers and walkers.^[1]

They are sociable dogs suited to companion and assistance roles, so they generally cope well around people and other animals.^[1]

Their coat is short, dense and naturally oily with a water-resistant quality - expect it to feel slightly dry and to shed, requiring regular brushing.^[1]

They have a calm, adaptable demeanour noted even in demanding working roles, making them generally easy to handle in varied environments.^[1]

Their calm demeanour and adaptability make them generally easy to handle in varied environments and around new people.^[1]

The coat is short, dense and slightly oily with a water-resistant quality - expect it to shed and brush regularly to manage loose hair.^[1]

They are content as companion dogs and are sociable by nature, so they are unlikely to be aggressive or difficult around clients or other dogs.^[1]

Labs are friendly, energetic and playful, so expect an enthusiastic greeting and a dog that loves to engage with people.^[1]

They need both physical and mental stimulation - walks alone may not be enough; include activities that keep their mind busy.^[1]

Bred as a retriever gun dog, they have a natural love of water, so be prepared for them to jump into any available puddle or pond.^[1]

They have a soft mouth by breeding, meaning they are unlikely to bite hard, but they may carry or mouth objects during play.^[1]

Labs are highly intelligent and trainable, responding well to clear, consistent guidance from handlers.^[1]