Friendly and Outgoing:

Labradors are known for their friendly, social nature and are great with children, adults, and other animals.

Highly Trainable:

With their intelligence and eagerness to please, Labradors are quick learners and excel in obedience, service work, and dog sports.

Versatile:

Labradors can adapt to a variety of roles, including being family pets, service dogs, hunting dogs, and therapy animals.

Active and Playful:

They are energetic and playful dogs that love outdoor activities, making them great companions for active individuals or families.

High Energy Levels:

Labradors have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Without enough physical activity, they can become bored and destructive.

Prone to Health Issues:

Labradors are prone to certain health problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, and joint issues.

Heavy Shedders:

Labradors have a dense double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes, requiring regular grooming.

Can Be Boisterous:

Their playful nature, combined with their size, can make them a bit overwhelming for very small children or people who prefer a calmer dog.

Exercise Needs:

Labradors are energetic dogs that require regular exercise to prevent boredom and maintain their physical health. They enjoy activities such as running, swimming, and playing fetch. Without enough physical activity, they can become bored and exhibit destructive behaviour.

Walks:

A minimum of two long walks per day, along with playtime and other physical activities, is recommended to meet their energy needs.

Training:

Labradors are highly trainable and excel in obedience training, service work, and dog sports. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods and enjoy learning new commands and tricks. Early training is important to ensure good behaviour and to manage their exuberance.

Note: Adoption and Fostering from any registered shelter would greatly reduce any purchase price

Purchase Price:

$2,000 - $4,500 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup:

Around $500 - $700 AUD (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food:

Approximately $1,000 - $1,500 AUD per year, given their size and dietary needs.

Grooming:

Regular grooming costs are typically around $200 - $400 AUD per year, with frequent brushing required to manage shedding.

Vet Bills:

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups, preventive care, and treatment for potential health issues could cost $500 - $1,000 AUD per year.

Total Lifetime Cost:

Over a 10-14 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $25,000 - $40,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight:

Labrador Retrievers typically stand 54-62 cm (21-24 inches) tall and weigh between 25-36 kg (55-80 lbs), with males generally being larger than females.

Coat:

Labradors have a short, dense, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round. Regular brushing is required to manage shedding, particularly during the change of seasons.

Colour Options:

Labradors come in three standard colours: black, yellow, and chocolate. These colours are recognised by major kennel clubs around the world.

Temperament:

Labradors are friendly, affectionate, and outgoing dogs that are known for their love of people and other animals. They are eager to please, making them great companions and easy to train.

Good with Children:

Labradors are excellent with children due to their gentle, patient nature. They are known for being tolerant and playful, making them a favourite for families with kids of all ages.

Socialisation:

Labradors are naturally friendly, but early socialisation is important to help them become well-rounded dogs. They are typically good with strangers and other pets, but exposure to different environments is key to preventing behavioural issues.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Labradors are best suited to indoor living with their families, but they enjoy outdoor activities. They should have regular access to outdoor space for exercise but should not be left outside for long periods, as they thrive on human companionship.

Apartment Living:

While they can adapt to apartment living, Labradors are better suited for homes with yards where they can burn off energy. If living in an apartment, they require ample outdoor exercise to prevent boredom.

Time Alone:

Labradors are social dogs that prefer not to be left alone for long periods. They may develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently, making them better suited for homes where someone is often present.

Common Health Issues

Labradors are prone to several health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and joint problems. They can also suffer from bloat (gastric torsion), a potentially life-threatening condition. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and regular exercise are essential for maintaining their health.

Guarding Ability:

While Labradors are not typically aggressive, they may bark to alert their owners of strangers. However, they are generally too friendly to be effective guard dogs.

Affectionate Nature:

Labradors are highly affectionate and enjoy being close to their families. They love attention and will often seek out cuddles or playtime.

Suitability for Dog Parks:

Labradors are social and generally do well in dog parks. They enjoy interacting with other dogs and thrive in social settings.

Climate Adaptability:

Labradors can adapt to various climates, but their dense coat makes them more comfortable in cooler temperatures. In hot weather, it's important to provide them with plenty of water and shade to prevent overheating.

Ethical Breeding Considerations:

It’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings to minimise the risk of hereditary health issues, such as hip dysplasia and PRA. Ethical breeding practices help ensure the health and well-being of the puppies.