Buyer question
Is a Labrador Retriever good for beginners?
Yes: our Animal Library rates the Labrador Retriever 5 out of 5 for beginners (forgiving and social).
Source: the Labrador Retriever page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Labrador Retriever in the Animal Library
The detail
A sporting dog bred to fetch shot waterfowl from cold water all day, so it arrives with stamina, a soft mouth and a strong urge to carry things. Friendly to almost everyone, easy to train, and happiest with a daily job and a family around it.
- Temperament
- Outgoing, eager, gentle
- Best fit
- Active families, first homes
- Trainability
- 5 out of 5 (Food-driven, eager)
- Energy
- 4 out of 5 (1 hr exercise daily)
- Grooming load
- 2 out of 5 (Weekly brush, heavy shed)
What to weigh
Young Labs are boisterous, mouthy and chew for two years or more, and the breed gains weight easily, which worsens its joint risks. Expect year-round shedding and a dog that needs real exercise, not just a yard.