Labrador Retriever insurance

Labrador Retriever breed overview

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK. They are friendly, easy to train, and enjoy being active. Labradors are great for families and people who like to spend time outdoors. A healthy diet helps them stay at a good weight and look after their joints.

Keep reading to learn more about the Labrador Retriever breed and how Co-op Pet Insurance can help you care for your dog’s health and wellbeing.

Labrador Retriever key facts

Lifespan

Labrador Retrievers typically live for 10 years or more.

Size and weight

They are large dogs, usually weighing between 25 and 34 kilograms.

Coat and colour

They have short coats that come in black, chocolate, and yellow.

Exercise needs

They need high levels of exercise, ideally 1 to 2 hours each day.

Shedding and grooming

Moderate to heavy shedding. Benefits from regular grooming.

Temperament

Gentle, outgoing and eager to please.

Learn more about Labradors

They love to eat

Labradors need a balanced diet suited to their age, weight, and activity. Puppies should eat 3-4 times a day, while adults usually need two meals. Since Labradors are prone to obesity, portion control is important to keeping their weight healthy.

They are great for first time dog owners

Labradors are known as the perfect pet for families. They are a gentle, patient and affectionate breed that loves to spend time with people and other dogs, if socialised well and from an early age. They're also great for first-time dog owners because they're easy to train.

They have lots of energy

Labradors are active dogs. They need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They were first bred to retrieve game, so they love swimming and games like fetch. Training early helps avoid destructive behaviours. They are intelligent and keen to please, making it easy for them to learn quickly.

Common health issues in Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers can live long and happy lives, but they are prone to several health conditions. Here are six to be aware of:

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to a loose or unstable fit. This can cause discomfort, reduced mobility, and difficulty with activities like walking or running.

Elbow dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a painful joint condition in dogs that affects the front legs. It happens when the bones in the elbow don’t fit together properly, leading to limping, stiffness, or avoiding one leg.

Progressive retinal atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy is a genetic eye condition that gradually leads to vision loss. It typically begins with night blindness and can progress to complete blindness over time.

Obesity

Some dogs are more prone to weight gain, especially if they have a strong appetite or low activity levels. Excess weight can strain the joints and increase the risk of other health problems. A healthy diet and regular exercise are important to keep dogs at a good weight.

Arthritis

Older dogs, especially those with joint issues, can get arthritis. It makes their joints stiff and sore, so they may move more slowly or avoid playing.

Ear infections

Some dogs have ear shapes that make it harder for air to circulate, which can trap wax and moisture. This can lead to infections. Look out for head shaking, scratching, or a strong smell. Gentle cleaning and regular checks can help keep ears healthy.

Care tips for owners

Watch their weight

Labradors love food. Keep portions controlled to avoid joint strain.
Exercise daily

Long walks, swimming, or fetch help burn energy and keep them fit.
Train with patience

They’re eager to please but can be excitable. Gentle, consistent training works best.
Clean their ears

Their floppy ears can trap moisture. Check and clean regularly.
Brush weekly

A weekly brush helps manage shedding and keeps their coat shiny.
Visit the vet regularly

Labradors are prone to hip and elbow issues. Regular checkups are important.

Why do you need dog insurance?

Dog insurance is there to cover your dog if they have an accident or illness and will cover the costs of the treatment needed, minus any excesses.

Some of the key reasons to buy dog insurance are:

Cost of vet fees

Vet fees can cost thousands of pounds depending on the type of treatment and the size and breed of your pet.

Peace of mind

Knowing that you are covered for what can be a large unexpected bill.

Lifetime cover

If you choose a lifetime policy, any illnesses or accidents insured will continue to be covered for the whole of your pet's life.

Compare our cover types

Compare the difference between the two types of Co-op Dog Insurance.

Cover	Lifetime	Time limited
Vet fee cover	up to £16,000	up to £5,000
Lifetime cover for recurring illness for example if your pet is insured and you keep renewing, cancer treatment is covered for life	Lifetime cover for recurring illness included	Lifetime cover for recurring illness excluded
Dental treatment	Dental treatment included	Dental treatment included
Third-party liability cover dogs only	Third-party liability cover included	Third-party liability cover included
Pay monthly at no extra cost	Pay monthly at no extra cost included	Pay monthly at no extra cost included
Advertising and reward if your pet goes missing	up to £2,500	up to £1,000
Loss of pet due to theft or if they are lost	up to £3,000	up to £1,000

Lifetime

Vet fee cover

up to £16,000

Lifetime cover for recurring illness
for example if your pet is insured and you keep renewing, cancer treatment is covered for life

Lifetime cover for recurring illness included

Dental treatment

Dental treatment included

Third-party liability cover
dogs only

Third-party liability cover included

Pay monthly at no extra cost

Pay monthly at no extra cost included

Advertising and reward
if your pet goes missing

up to £2,500

Loss of pet
due to theft or if they are lost

up to £3,000

Time limited