Labrador Retriever

Thanks to its sociable nature, eagerness to learn and strong bond with people, the Labrador Retriever is widely chosen both as a family dog and as a guide, search-and-rescue and assistance dog.

Character and temperament

A cheerful, people-focused dog that is usually friendly with strangers too. It was bred for companionship at work rather than guarding. Labradors are highly food-motivated, which makes training easier but also makes portion control important.

Exercise and mental needs

Young Labradors in particular are very energetic. Alongside daily walks, retrieving games, swimming and sniffing games suit the breed's nature perfectly. A Labrador without enough to do may turn to chewing and digging.

Coat care

It has a short, dense, water-resistant double coat. Weekly brushing is usually enough; during seasonal shedding, brush more often.

Who is it suited to?

Ideal for active families and individuals who enjoy spending time with their dog and working on training. Not suited to a lifestyle where it would be alone for most of the day.

A short history

Its ancestors were water dogs that helped fishermen in the Newfoundland region of Canada. The breed was developed in England in the 19th century as a gun dog.