About Labrador Retrievers

As a family companion dog Labs can participate with their owners in a wide variety of activities: obedience, agility, fly-ball, tracking and hunting. A well trained and socialized Labrador Retriever will be gentle with children and the elderly. The ideal Labrador Retriever is even-tempered, outgoing, affectionate and friendly. The Labrador Retriever personality and activity levels vary from dog to dog. Genetics, POSITIVE training, socializing, and the care they receive are a large part of what determines each dog's personality.  What you put into your Labrador, you will get back! Training and consistency with your adopted Lab will help your Lab to achieve the ideal characteristics that the breed is known for.  Here are a few details about the breed and dog ownership in general. 

Average Weight

Male weights range from 65-85 pounds.
Female weights range from 55-70 pounds.

Average Height

Male height ranges from 22 1/2 to 24 1/2 inches high at the shoulder.
Female height ranges from 21 1/2 to 23 1/2 inches at the shoulder.

Average Life Span

12-14 years

Annual Vet Costs*

• Annual Veterinary Exam (for healthy dogs) $25.00-40.00
• Yearly Heartworm Testing (clinic) $20.00-40.00
• Yearly Heartworm Preventive (based on Interceptor prices) $90.00
• Yearly Flea Preventive $160.00
• Yearly Adult Boosters for distemper and bordatella $30.00
• Rabies Booster (every 1, 3 yrs depending on vaccine used) $15.00-30.00

* Includes the average veterinarian examination fee and indicates the minimum requirements for preventive immunization.
Vetting costs for unexpected illness/injury can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Miscellaneous Costs

• Yearly food cost $300.00
• Supplies (treats, toys, leashes, dishes, shampoo, etc.) $150.00+
• Boarding average $30 per day
• Grooming $125 (baths, nail trims, ears cleaned, etc.)
• Crate $90.00-150.00