Labrador at a glance
| Adult weight | 25 to 36kg |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Typical lifespan | About 12 years |
| Grooming | Brushing at home; no regular groomer |
| Health | Some known breed problems |
What a Labrador costs
| First yearIncluding a £1,000 puppy, kit, vaccinations, spaying and training | £3,765 |
|---|---|
| Each year after | £1,912 |
| A month, after year one | £159 |
| Over about 12 years | £24,797 |
| With a dog sitter 3 days a weekAt £90 a week | +£4,680 a year |
These assume a girl puppy, about £59 a month of mid-range dry food for a 30.5kg adult, a week of kennels a year and no daycare. The calculator above shows every line.
Health problems to know about
Labradors are known to be prone to:
- Hip and elbow problems
- Weight gain
- Ear infections
Ask the breeder for health test results for both parents. Not every Labrador will have these problems, but they’re why insurance matters: a long-term condition can cost hundreds or thousands of pounds a year.
Insuring a Labrador?
Look for lifetime cover with at least £7,000 a year for vet fees, and check what it says about hip and elbow problems.
Compare dog insuranceWe may be paid if you use this link. It never changes our sums.
Next steps
- Check which insurance a Labrador needs
- See how big your Labrador puppy will get
- Work out how much to feed a Labrador puppy
- Check a Labrador breeder before you pay a deposit
Questions
How much does a Labrador cost a month?
About £159 a month after the first year, for insurance, food, flea treatment, grooming, boosters and small vet bills. Daycare or a dog sitter is extra.
How much does a Labrador cost in the first year?
About £3,765, including a £1,000 puppy price, kit, vaccinations, spaying, training, insurance and food. Breeders’ prices vary a lot, so put in yours.
How much is insurance for a Labrador?
Our starting figure is £50 a month for lifetime cover for a young Labrador, but quotes vary with where you live and the policy. Look for a vet fee limit of at least £7,000 a year.
How long do Labradors live?
About 12 years on average.
German shepherd £2,104 a year
Goldendoodle £2,322 a year
Boxer £1,996 a year
Dobermann £2,164 a year
Weimaraner £1,948 a year