Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is Canada's most popular dog breed. Affectionate, active and highly trainable, it is unfortunately predisposed to several hereditary conditions common in large breeds, including hip dysplasia and obesity.
Weight
25–36 kg
Lifespan
10–12 yrs
Energy
●●●●○
With kids
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AdoptScore™
Bon choix
Composite score: health (72/100) · trainability (5/5) · budget · family suitability
CaniScore™
The Labrador Retriever is Canada's most popular dog breed. Affectionate, active and highly trainable, it is unfortunately predisposed to several hereditary conditions common in large breeds, including hip dysplasia and obesity.
Main health risks
Estimated cost in Canada
$800 – $5,000
For the Labrador Retriever, this is the hereditary condition most often associated with the breed. Early screening and regular visits help limit its impact on quality of life and reduce long-term costs.
Estimated cost in Canada
$800 – $5,000
For the Labrador Retriever, this is one of the hereditary risks to watch for in this breed. Early screening and regular visits help limit its impact on quality of life and reduce long-term costs.
Estimated cost in Canada
$800 – $5,000
For the Labrador Retriever, this is one of the hereditary risks to watch for in this breed. Early screening and regular visits help limit its impact on quality of life and reduce long-term costs.
Estimated 10-year cost without insurance
40,000
This amount represents the average estimated veterinary care for this breed in Canada.
Breed Traits
Health Risks & Estimated Costs
| Condition | Est. Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Hip dysplasia | 2 000 – 6 000 $ |
| Elbow dysplasia | 1 500 – 5 000 $ |
| Obésité (gestion long terme) | 500 – 2 000 $ |
| Progressive retinopathy | 800 – 3 000 $ |
* Estimates based on Canadian veterinary rates. Actual costs vary by clinic, severity, and whether pet insurance covers the condition.
Total cost of ownership
Vet, food, grooming, insurance — all included.
Total estimate per year
6 190 $
Range : 4 640 $ – 7 740 $
Cost breakdown
Food
Estimated for a large breed
1 700 $
Grooming
Level 2/5, minimal upkeep
200 $
Veterinary care
Routine visits + unexpected care estimated for the breed
2 750 $
max 4 000 $
Health insurance
$45–95/month (estimate)
840 $
max 1 140 $
Accessories & extras
Toys, leash, collar, bedding, carrier
700 $
⚠️ Indicative estimates. Actual costs vary by region in Canada, veterinary clinic and care habits. Exceptional expenses (surgeries, emergencies) are not included.
How much does it cost to insure your dog?
Adjust the age and coverage level, and the range recalculates instantly.
Annual deductible
recommended balanceReimbursement
standard coverageEstimated range for Canada
NaN–NaN $/mo
Deductible $250 · Reimbursement 80% · 2 yrs, Young adult
Get your exact price
⚠️ Estimate for guidance only. Actual premiums vary based on your postal code, your dog's health history and the exact options of the chosen plan. Some links are affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Where do these numbers come from?
The CaniScore and cost estimates for the Labrador Retriever are based on recognized data, not guesswork:
- OFA & CHIC: hereditary disease prevalence by breed
- CKC & veterinary journals: longevity and prevalence studies
- AMVQ 2026: Canadian veterinary fee benchmark
- Trupanion: real per-breed claim costs (millions of claims)
🍁 Canadian Pet Owner Info
- 🏥 Microchip: Increasingly required across Canada (mandatory in Quebec since 2024); check your municipality's rules
- 🦟 Seasonal health: Heartworm prevention required May–November; ticks active from +4°C
- ❄️ Winter care: Paw protection (Musher's Secret or Pawz boots) against road salt and -30°C temperatures
- 📋 BSL check: Some breeds are restricted in certain Canadian provinces and municipalities, check BSL regulations
🛒 Recommended products for Labrador Retriever
Large breed kibble
Joint & digestive formula · Amazon
Mental stimulation toys
Active & smart breeds · Amazon
Health supplements
Glucosamine, omega-3, probiotics · Amazon
Embark DNA Test
Detects 350+ breeds & 200+ diseases · ~$170
Compare with another breed
Side-by-side comparison · CaniScore™
* Amazon affiliate links. CaniScore™ may earn a commission on purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
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Similar Breeds (Large)
🇫🇷 Also available in French, with more detail: View the Labrador Retriever profile in French →