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Labrador Retriever: temperament, health and care
Labrador Retriever: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium-large, about 25–36 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 10–12 years |
| Exercise | High: 1–2 hours a day plus play |
| Grooming | Short double coat that sheds heavily; brush weekly |
Temperament and who it suits
Friendly, eager to please and food-motivated. Usually good with children and other dogs when well trained.
Often suits: active families who enjoy walks and training.
Labradors love food and easily gain weight, so measure meals and keep them lean.
Health problems to know about
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Obesity
- Ear infections
- Some inherited eye conditions
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Labrador Retriever
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Labrador Retriever live?
A Labrador Retriever typically lives 10–12 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Labrador Retriever need?
High: 1–2 hours a day plus play.
What health problems are common in a Labrador Retriever?
Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, ear infections and some inherited eye conditions. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Labrador Retriever need?
Short double coat that sheds heavily; brush weekly.
Who does a Labrador Retriever suit?
It often suits active families who enjoy walks and training. Labradors love food and easily gain weight, so measure meals and keep them lean.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.