Are Labs good family dogs?

Yes, they are one of the classic family breeds: the AKC rates them 5 of 5 with young children, other dogs and strangers. Their size and energy mean young puppies need training and supervision around small kids.

How much exercise does a Labrador need?

Lots, every day. The AKC warns that a Lab without enough exercise is likely to become hyperactive or destructive. Retrieving, swimming, long walks and dog sports work well.

Exercise-induced collapse is a genetic condition in which some young adult Labs collapse after intense exercise. The AKC notes a DNA test lets breeders identify carriers. If your Lab wobbles or collapses during hard exercise, stop, cool them down and see your vet.

How long do Labs live?

The AKC lists a life expectancy of 11–13 years. Keeping a Lab lean and active is one of the best things you can do for its health.

Breed guide

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is a large, friendly, high-energy sporting dog. The AKC rates Labs 5 of 5 for energy, trainability, and with children, other dogs and strangers, lists males at 22.5–24.5 inches and 65–80 pounds, and gives a life expectancy of 11–13 years. Labs are devoted, outgoing family dogs that need lots of daily exercise and training.

At a glance

Height: 22.5–24.5 in (male), 21.5–23.5 in (female)
Weight: 65–80 lb (male), 55–70 lb (female)
Life expectancy: 11–13 years
AKC group: Sporting Group

AKC trait ratings (1 to 5)

Energy
Trainability
Need for mental work
Good with young children
Good with other dogs
Openness to strangers
Shedding
Coat grooming
Barking

Personality

Labs are devoted, intelligent and enthusiastic, the AKC says, and need to be included in family activities. They are famously friendly with everyone, which makes them excellent family, therapy and assistance dogs.

Exercise

The AKC calls the Lab an exuberant, very energetic breed that needs lots of exercise every day; a Lab without enough exercise tends to become hyperactive or destructive. Retrieving and swimming are favorites, and dog sports such as agility, obedience, tracking and dock diving are great outlets.

Grooming

The thick, water-repellent double coat sheds (AKC shedding: 4 of 5), so regular brushing helps, with occasional baths. Trim the nails regularly and brush the teeth often.

Health: what to know

Hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disorders, eye conditions. The AKC lists these, including progressive retinal atrophy, among the conditions responsible breeders screen for.
Exercise-induced collapse (EIC). Some young adult Labs can collapse after intense exercise; a DNA test lets breeders identify carriers, per the AKC.
Hereditary myopathy. A muscle-weakness condition breeders screen for.
Bloat. Like other large, deep-chested dogs, Labs can develop this life-threatening stomach condition. Retching without bringing anything up and a swollen belly mean go to an emergency vet now.

Training

With a Lab’s strength and energy, the AKC calls early socialization and puppy classes vital. Gentle exposure to many people, places and situations between about 7 weeks and 4 months, plus early obedience training, helps a Lab grow into a well-mannered adult. They are highly food-motivated, which makes reward-based training easy.

Is this breed right for you?

Usually a good fit for

Active families with children or other pets
Owners who enjoy daily walks, swimming and fetch
First-time owners ready for training and lots of exercise

Can be a tough fit for

Homes that can’t provide daily vigorous exercise
Owners who can’t tolerate shedding
People wanting a guard dog

Frequently asked questions

Are Labs good family dogs?: Yes, they are one of the classic family breeds: the AKC rates them 5 of 5 with young children, other dogs and strangers. Their size and energy mean young puppies need training and supervision around small kids.
How much exercise does a Labrador need?: Lots, every day. The AKC warns that a Lab without enough exercise is likely to become hyperactive or destructive. Retrieving, swimming, long walks and dog sports work well.
What is EIC in Labs?: Exercise-induced collapse is a genetic condition in which some young adult Labs collapse after intense exercise. The AKC notes a DNA test lets breeders identify carriers. If your Lab wobbles or collapses during hard exercise, stop, cool them down and see your vet.
How long do Labs live?: The AKC lists a life expectancy of 11–13 years. Keeping a Lab lean and active is one of the best things you can do for its health.

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