Labrador Retriever
Sporting GroupLarge

Labrador Retriever

Bred to haul fishermen's nets from icy seas, now the world's most steadfast companion.

Origin
Newfoundland, Canada
Lifespan
10–12 years
Height
55–62 cm
Weight
25–36 kg

Temperament

OutgoingGentleEager to pleaseEven-tempered

The Study

The Labrador descends from the St John's water dogs of Newfoundland, refined in Britain into the quintessential gundog. Its otter tail, weatherproof double coat and webbed feet speak to a life spent in cold water. Labs are gregarious, trainable and famously food-motivated — a trait that makes them superb assistance and detection dogs, and occasionally inventive kitchen thieves. They mature slowly, often remaining boisterous until three years of age.

Care & Keeping

Needs vigorous daily exercise, ideally including swimming. A robust appetite demands measured feeding. Short coat needs only weekly brushing, though shedding is constant.

Attributes

Energy Level4/5
Intelligence4/5
Trainability5/5
Grooming Needs2/5
Exercise Needs4/5
Affection5/5

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