Top Dog Breeds: The Labrador

Learn all about what makes the Labrador one of the most popular dog breeds.

The Labrador Retriever is an incredible dog. Their hardy physical attributes could not be more different than their gentle and affectionate nature. The Labrador has a need to please, which indicates why this dog breed can be regarded as the ultimate family dog. The face of a Labrador evokes the most adoration, perhaps more specifically his ability to express his love of life, understanding and affection through a gentle look or delicate movement.

Labrador Breed Story

Fishermen from England, Portugal and France were the original seasonal visitors, and then settlers, on Newfoundland. It was here in this fishing community that the breed’s combination of mental and physical attributes were forged. It is generally accepted that the dogs they brought with them, and then subsequently crossed, form the bloodline of the dogs that evolved into the Labradors today.
READ MORE > [links to the breed's ""Breed Story"" section in Breedopedia in appropriate country]

Labrador Temperament

The Labrador Retriever is intelligent, keen and biddable with a strong will to please. This breed is of a friendly nature and should have no trace of aggression or undue shyness.
LEARN MORE > [links to breed's Temperament section in Breedopedia in appropriate country]

For Official Standards:

Official Standards

Dog Photos

Labrador Standards

• Country of origin: Great Britain
• Height approximately (at withers/shoulder): Male 56-57cm / 22-22.5in; Female 54-56cm / 21.5-22in (standards may vary)
• Weight approximately: Male 28-36kg / 62-79lbs; Female 25-32kg / 55-70lbs (standards may vary)
• Coat: Short coat
• Color: Wholly black, yellow or liver/chocolate. Yellow ranges from light cream to red fox.
• Markings: Small white spot on chest permissible
• Lifespan: Average, 10-12 years

Good to Know - Labrador

+ Makes a wonderful family pet and is excellent with children
+ A good choice for novice owners
+ Acclimates well to most climates
- Must have daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Requires lots of exercise
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and eye defects