The Average Lifespan for a Labrador

The quintessential working and hunting dog, Labradors are known for their stocky build, genial personality and deep loyalty to their owners. The breed stems from Newfoundland where settlers allowed their working breeds to intermingle, producing a dog that is perfectly suited for hard work and companionship. A popular breed throughout the world, most Labradors live longer than 10 years, but less than 15.

  1. Black Labradors

    • The most common of the Labradors, black labs are recognizable by their white, shiny and sleek coat. They are often thought to be the most territorial and protective lab and are the most likely of the family to get itchy skin conditions. Consequently, black labs have a slightly lower than average life expectancy at 10 to 11 years.

    Chocolate Labradors

    • Recognized as a distinct bloodline within the Labrador family, chocolate labs are recognizable by their deep brown, chocolate-colored coat that is slightly shaggier than that of a black lab. Chocolate labs' life expectancy is average for the lab family at 12 to 13 years.

    Yellow Labradors

    • Ranging in color from a bright yellow to a deep butterscotch brown and yellow blend, yellow labs were the second formally recognized Labrador distinction in the family. Yellow labs' life expectancy is average for the lab family at 12 to 13 years.

    English Labradors

    • English labs differ from American labs (black, chocolate and yellow) in their overall size and shape. English labs tend to be smaller, with stockier frames and shorter muzzles. They are considered the "show" dogs of the lab family, as they are more likely to be entered into dog competitions than their working-class American relatives. Because of their smaller sizes, English labs are less susceptible to common old-age lab conditions such as hip dysplasia. English labs tend to live slightly longer than American labs at 13 to 14 years.