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Protecting customers with insurance since 2001

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is a firm family favourite, mainly due to their calm demeanour and temperament. This lovable and well-known breed is adaptable, smart and aims to please.

Black labrador dog sitting on the grass.Black Labrador sitting down in a field.Black labrador dog sitting on the grass.

At a glance

1 to 2 hours of exercise a day

Life expectancy of 10 to 12 years

Large, between 25kg and 36kg

Easy-going, loyal, affectionate

Silhouette showing a Labrador can be between 55 and 58cm tall

1 to 2 hours of exercise a day

Life expectancy of 10 to 12 years

Large, between 25kg and 36kg

Easy-going, loyal, affectionate

Silhouette showing a Labrador can be between 55 and 58cm tall

Labrador Retrievers are the UK's most popular breed, and here’s why...

With many positive characteristics, Labradors have been well known throughout the years for their good temper, agility and stamina, intelligence and strong will to please. Known for being one of the most kind-natured breeds, they are often a favourite with families and those who live an active lifestyle.

Buying or rehoming a Labrador

Getting a new dog, whether you buy or adopt, is a huge commitment and there’s lots of preparation you need to do to be ready. Some things to consider are:

  • Prepping your home
  • Figuring out what to feed them, and buying the food
  • Buying the essentials, such as leads and collars
  • Prepping your family, especially any young children
  • Securing your garden
  • Understanding grooming routines and techniques
  • Knowing how much exercise they’ll need
  • Considering pet insurance

Fun fact

Labradors have a double coat to protect them from icy water. A bit like otters, they are almost waterproof.

What's it like to own a Labrador Retriever

Video duration: 0:35

Top 5 health conditions in Labrador Retrievers

We’ve put together the most common claimed for conditions for Labrador Retrievers, based on MORE THAN pet insurance customer claims

Condition
Number of claims
Average paid out
816
£1,137
463
£564
455
£1,346
452
£116
378
£1,181
Condition
Number of claims
816
Average paid out
£1,137
Condition
463
Average paid out
£564
Condition
455
Average paid out
£1,346
Condition
452
Average paid out
£116
Condition
378
Average paid out
£1,181
Based on MORE THAN data 1 January 2021 to 1 March 2023. Average cost paid out includes excess.

Common health issues and problems in Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers are overall considered a healthy breed, with a usual lifespan of over 10 years.

Some health conditions in Labradors can be down to their genetic history, and commonalities within the breed.

Click on the hotspots to find out more about the most common health issues affecting Labradors, as provided by our in-house vet team (October 2022).

Labrador illustration.
Elbow dysplasia
Ear infection
Cranial cruciate ligament disease
Obesity
Luke Mallion, our in house vet, seated.
A green Quote, speech mark.
"Labradors are a high-energy breed who require lots of exercise, however it’s important to build this up while they’re young puppies. Follow a 5-minute rule for every month old they are, up until they’re a year old. This will help to protect their joints as they grow."
Luke Mangion, MORE THAN Vet

Are you looking for insurance for your Labrador?

Labrador temperament and family friendliness

Labradors are typically the most family-friendly breed, due to their calm temperament and kind nature. They have a soft mouth, and are devoted companions, meaning they usually have great relationships with all members of the family, young to old.

If you have a busy household with young children, every member of the family can get involved in training and making kids aware of how to safely interact with the dog. With these basic skills and knowledge, relationships with a Labrador can thrive and lifetime bonds can form.

Family friendly

  • Intelligent
  • Faithful
  • Great with children
  • Easily trained
Young girl petting golden Labrador on sofa
Black Labrador Retriever running in an open field.
Happy family with Labrador
Young girl petting golden Labrador on sofa
Black Labrador Retriever running in an open field.
Young girl petting golden Labrador on sofa
Black Labrador Retriever running in an open field.
Happy family with Labrador

Grooming your Labrador Retriever

Overall Labradors don’t require a lot of grooming due to their low maintenance coat. However, it’s wise to introduce your Labrador to grooming from a young age so that they’re used to the different tools and techniques when you need to use them in the future.

Ready to insure your Labrador Retriever?