Labrador Retriever

America's favorite fetch-obsessed family dog.
Lovable, loyal, and endlessly eager to please, the Labrador Retriever is the ultimate all-around companion.

New Owner

Labradors are famously beginner-friendly. Their even temperament, desire to bond, and food-motivated nature make training approachable, even for first-time owners. They don’t need a strict routine—just consistency, patience, and affection.

Tail Of The Tape

Trait
Low
High
Height
21.5
in
24.5
in
Weight
55
lbs
80
lbs
Lifespan
10
yrs
12
yrs
Activity Needs
Average
Average
Average
Average
Labs love to stay active but don’t require intense workouts to stay happy. A few brisk walks, some backyard playtime, or a good game of fetch will satisfy their energy needs. They're down for adventure but also content to chill after a bit of fun.
Trainability
Willing
Willing
Willing
Labradors are famously cooperative and intelligent. They thrive on positive reinforcement and truly enjoy learning, especially when treats are involved. Training can be as much fun for you as it is for them.
kid compatability
Kids
Kids
Few breeds are as family-ready as the Labrador Retriever. They’re famously gentle with kids, sociable with guests, and usually happy to cohabitate with other pets—making them a top choice for busy, bustling households.
grooming needs
Low
Low
Low
With their short, water-resistant coats, Labs are refreshingly low-maintenance. Weekly brushing keeps shedding under control, and they only need occasional baths—usually after rolling in something questionable.
noise level
Quiet
Quiet
Quiet
Labradors are generally quiet and even-tempered. They're more likely to wag their tail than bark, but they will alert you if something seems off.
Good for Allergies
No
No
Labradors are not hypoallergenic and tend to shed year-round. If allergies are a concern, this is an important consideration.

What It's Like To Own One

Living with a Labrador Retriever is like having a perpetual optimist in dog form. They're always up for whatever you're doing—hiking, cuddling, road tripping, or playing fetch until your arm gives out. There's a joyful simplicity to their companionship that feels grounding.They’re intuitive, emotionally in tune, and deeply loyal.

Labs don’t just want to be near you—they want to be involved. Whether they’re nudging your hand for more pets or gently resting their head on your lap, they’re the definition of a constant companion.

Personality Snapshot

• Friendly

• Dependable

• Eager to please

• Always ready for a snack or a swim.

Breed Embodiment

Chris Pratt
Lovable, charming, athletic, and effortlessly relatable—Labs and Chris Pratt are equally adored by all ages.

Fictional Owners

Leslie Knope
Endlessly optimistic, obsessed with doing a good job, and a total team player.
Samwise Gamgee
Loyal, humble, hardworking, and ready to carry the emotional load (and the ring).
Paddington Bear
Innocent, sweet, and always getting into something a little messy—but you love them for it.

Where They Want To Live

Labrador Retrievers thrive in homes full of love, laughter, and people to bond with. They do well in houses with yards, but they’re also content in apartments as long as their exercise needs are met. These dogs are all about togetherness—if your household enjoys shared activities and daily routines, a Lab will fit right in.They're happiest when they're near their humans, preferably in the middle of the action. If you work from home or have a flexible lifestyle, you’ll find them happily curled at your feet—or following you from room to room with tail-wagging enthusiasm.

Dating Profile

Hi, I’m a Labrador Retriever. I’ll be your most loyal cheerleader, best backyard athlete, and most dedicated dinner-time companion. I like long walks, short swims, and pretending I haven’t been fed yet. If you’ve got a tennis ball, we’re already best friends.

Things To Know

• Great with kids, dogs, and strangers

• Needs moderate daily exercise

• Tends to chew when bored—offer plenty of toys

• Food-driven, which helps with training (and counter-surfing!)

• Not ideal for allergy-sensitive homes

Gear Guide

• Tough chew toys for those powerful jaws

• Puzzle feeders to keep their minds sharp

• Durable leashes and harnesses for daily walks

• A dog bed near wherever you hang out most

• A stash of tennis balls—seriously, stock up

Bottom Line

There’s a reason the Labrador Retriever is always near the top of the popularity charts. They’re reliable, joyful, and a near-perfect blend of energy and calm. Labs don’t just fit into families—they enhance them. Their loyalty, intelligence, and heart make them an easy breed to love for life.Whether you're new to dog ownership or just want a low-drama best friend who lives to make you smile, the Lab is your go-to. Just be warned: once you’ve had a Labrador, no other dog will ever quite compare.