The world's favorite dog: friendly, able, and eager.
Origin
Canada (Newfoundland) / England
Height
21.5–24.5 in (55–62 cm)
Weight
55–80 lb (25–36 kg)
Lifespan
11–13 years
Coat
Short, dense, water-repellent — heavy shedder
Energy
High
Overview
The Labrador Retriever is consistently among the most popular breeds in the world, beloved for its friendly, outgoing nature and remarkable versatility. Bred to retrieve waterfowl, it excels as a gundog, service dog, and family companion.
Kind, eager to please, and endlessly enthusiastic, the Lab bonds closely with its family and gets along with nearly everyone. Its trainability and even temperament make it a top choice for assistance and detection work as well as home life.
History
Originating from the water dogs of Newfoundland and refined in England, the Labrador was bred to retrieve nets and game from cold water. Its skill, biddability, and gentle temperament propelled it to worldwide popularity.
Where it comes from
Canada (Newfoundland) / England
Highlighted in the Labrador Retriever's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Labrador is affectionate, outgoing, and reliable, generally excellent with children and other animals. It is highly trainable and food-motivated, needing daily exercise and companionship, and it can gain weight without activity.
Health to watch
Joint malformation is common in the breed; screening and lean weight help protect the joints over time.
Labs are prone to overeating and weight gain; measured meals and exercise protect joints and health.
An inherited collapse condition and eye disorders occur; DNA testing and exams help identify at-risk dogs.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
This active retriever needs vigorous daily activity, ideally including swimming and retrieving.
Guard against overfeeding; the food-driven Lab gains weight easily, stressing its joints.
The dense coat sheds heavily and needs regular brushing to manage loose hair.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.