
Dog breed guide
Labrador Retriever
Short dense coat, blocky head, ready for anything
A strong, short-coated retriever with a wide head, thick otter-like tail and an easygoing nature.
Lifespan
10–12 years
Size
Medium–large
Coat
Short, water resistant
Origin
Newfoundland, Canada
Shedding
Moderate
What to look for in a photo
Care at a glance
Suits
- Active families
- Owners who enjoy training
- Homes near water or open space
Keep in mind
- Gains weight easily without exercise
- Chews as a young dog
- Strong and bouncy when excited
Looks like
Breeds that often appear next to Labrador Retriever in a photo match.

Golden Retriever
Soft gold coat, gentle face, endlessly friendly

German Shepherd
Upright ears, black mask, watchful and capable
Quick answers
What colours do Labradors come in?
Solid black, yellow (cream to fox red) and chocolate. Patches and spots usually point to a mix.
Is grooming easy?
Yes. A weekly brush keeps the short coat tidy, with heavier shedding a few times a year.
Why does my photo show both Labrador and Golden Retriever?
They share head shape and body build. Coat length is what usually separates them, so a medium coat can score for both.