When talking about dog breeds, there’s one that’s sure to be at the top of the list: the Labrador. Apart from being adorable, he is also a very friendly dog that is loved by many households. So, how much do Labrador Retrievers cost?
While you may get a Labrador for free from someone you know, that choice is not always available. Getting a Labrador Retriever from an animal shelter will cost you anywhere from $50 to $350. On the other hand, getting one from a breeder will cost you anywhere from $700 to $1,500.
For a comprehensive cost breakdown, check out this guide.
Before you this guide, “How Much Do Labrador Retrievers Cost,” check out: 8 Best Labrador Breeders in the United States! (2023) and 6 Best Labrador Retriever Rescues! (2023).
Buying a Labrador: What You Need to Know
The American Labrador is a breed that does well in active households. Families who like to go swimming, running, and hiking together are ideal. They are well suited for households that have children of a somewhat older age who are able to interact with and play with them to a greater extent.
Because of their activity needs, American Labs are best kept by someone who can devote time on a daily basis. People with flexible schedules or who work from home are preferable.
On the other hand, English Labradors have a more laid-back temperament than their American counterparts. They would make wonderful companions for families who prefer a more peaceful environment.
English Labs are calmer and would make a good addition to a household with young kids. Since they require less activity than more energetic dogs, they are a good choice for families with hectic schedules.
Because of their calm demeanor, they are perfect candidates for service dogs and would make wonderful companions.
One-Time Expenses
Getting a Labrador Retriever spayed or neutered and the price of a puppy are the two major one-time expenses. You may also need to invest in a metal kennel to house your dog at night or while you’re gone, as well as a food bowl and a water fountain or dish.
Getting a Labrador for Free
Because the Labrador Retriever is among the most commonly owned breeds in the United States, there is a strong chance that you will discover someone who is trying to find a new home for their pet for a variety of reasons, such as relocating to an apartment that does not allow dogs.
It’s also possible to find a family with a new litter of pups who would offer you one. II also possible you can save money this holiday season if you request pet supplies as presents.
Getting a Labrador From a Shelter
$50–$350
Since Labrador retrievers are the most popular breed of dog in the United States, you may be able to get one at a shelter close to you for a fraction of the price of a puppy from a breeder.
Because most shelters are overcrowded, you may get a dog from one for free or near it. The Lab will likely have been vaccinated and spayed or neutered, saving you hundreds of dollars.
Adopting a dog from the pound not only saves the dog’s life but also makes room in the shelter.
Buying a Labrador From a Breeder
$700–$1,500
There are a few benefits to buying from a breeder rather than a shelter, despite the higher initial cost. In this case, $700–$1,500 for a purebred Labrador Retriever. You can obtain a decent indication of the puppy’s appearance and, more importantly, temperament by seeing the breeder’s other dogs.
In addition to this, you will find out whether or not the parents have any existing medical conditions. Some breeders will even let you pick whether you want a dog in the athletic class or the pet class, and all of them will provide you with paperwork verifying your pet’s pedigree.
Buying a Service Labrador
In general, the cost of purchasing a Labrador Retriever puppy that has been trained to be a service dog is significantly higher than the cost of purchasing a standard Lab puppy. The extensive training required by a service dog increases the overall cost of caring for the animal.
There is a possibility that the cost of a Labrador Retriever will change depending not only on the breeder’s location but also on the gender of the puppies they sell. Ask the breeder precise questions about what is and is not included in the price to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Initial Equipment and Supplies
$50–$200
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most low-maintenance dogs available. You won’t have to buy an aquarium, a litter box, any special lighting, or worry about the humidity or temperature of the room. Your dog won’t need much beyond a bowl for food and water and a place to sleep with you or another member of the family.
Using a drinking fountain is preferable since the constant flow of water discourages the proliferation of bacteria. During the day or while the owner is at work, some individuals prefer to secure their canine companion in a kennel. A dog bed is something you can get if you like, but it’s not required, and your dog might not even use it.
Monthly Costs
$100–$200 monthly
The monthly cost of owning a Labrador Retriever can be anywhere from $100 to $200. The initial expenses are going to be higher while you get your dog the vaccines that it needs and pay for the frequent trips to the veterinarian that you will need to make.
Unless you intend to make a living from breeding animals, you should have your dog spayed or neutered. In some cases, this will be a contractual requirement.
The average monthly cost of caring for your dog will decrease significantly after it reaches adulthood. It will no longer need as many trips to the vet and will only need booster shots on a periodic basis.
Healthcare
$10–$50 per month
Puppies need rabies, distemper, parvo, and other vaccinations to ensure their health, while adult dogs need booster shots every couple of years. While rabies vaccination is mandated by law, it is strongly recommended that your dog receive all available vaccinations.
Food
$30-$60
The average Labrador Retriever needs 30 pounds of food per month or more as they mature into their adult sizes. The primary component should be meat, so look for a premium brand that uses chicken, turkey, or salmon.
Protein will aid in muscle development and supply your dog with the nutrition and stamina he needs to stay fit. Your dog will be less hungry between meals if it eats a high-protein diet, and it will stay full for longer.
Corn-based pet foods are high in carbohydrates and sugars, which aren’t healthy and can lead to obesity because your pet will constantly be yearning for more food.
Grooming
$15–$25 monthly
The Labrador Retriever’s grooming needs are minimal, consisting mostly of weekly or biweekly brushing. Increase the frequency of brushing to multiple times per week in the spring and fall, when your dog is most likely to shed.
Additionally, having the teeth brushed and the nails trimmed might be beneficial when you get a professional grooming service.
Medical Expenses
$10–$50 monthly
Your Labrador Retriever will primarily need flea and tick medicine, such as Frontline. It can be applied with relative ease and will effectively eliminate all fleas and ticks on your dog and prevent the infestation from happening again.
It’s the most effective method for keeping your home flea-free and protecting your pet from contracting Lyme disease. This can also be used as a preventative measure against heartworm.
Health Insurance
$10–$30 monthly
Pet insurance is something to think about if you’re planning on buying a new pet. Some pet insurance programs provide flexible policies that may be tailored to meet the requirements of different breeds.
Pet insurance is often overlooked, despite its potential benefits in protecting against unexpected expenses and providing the best care for your Labrador Retriever.
Getting insurance for your dog while they are still a puppy is highly recommended because accidents and major illnesses can happen at any time and numerous procedures can cost thousands of dollars.
Environment
$0–$20 monthly
We’ve already established that your Labrador Retriever won’t require any particular living facilities and will happily remain by your side wherever you go. If you are feeling hot, it is likely that the dog is also feeling hot, and the same is true if you are feeling chilly, particularly when the dog is resting.
Entertainment
$5–$50 monthly
You can’t go wrong with giving your Labrador retriever any variety of toys, but tennis balls are his absolute favorite. Chew toys may get pricey fast when owned by a dog like the Labrador Retriever because of how quickly he destroys them.
Swimming is a great way to offer your dog the exercise it needs at a low cost and in a short amount of time, and it’s one of this dog’s favorite hobbies. You can also subscribe to a monthly service that will always be sending your dog new toys and activities, such as the BarkBox.
Other Potential Costs to Consider
In addition to the money you’ve already invested in your Labrador’s basic needs, you may be considering buying him or her some extra luxuries.
Even though these things are not particularly high on the list of priorities, you should nonetheless think of them as nice-to-haves should the budget allow it. And most of us would do it only because we care about the welfare of our pets, who are like members of our own families.
Here’s a rundown of some of the extra costs associated with keeping a Labrador Retriever:
Training Courses
The Labrador Retriever is a smart dog that usually doesn’t need to be professionally trained. Having said that, if this is your first dog, it’s probably a good idea to seek some assistance with basic training like potty training and obedience training. The average cost of a single lesson is between $30 and $50.
Dog Boarding
If you need to go away for several days or weeks and can’t bring your dog, this service will be a godsend. During your absence, your Lab can be looked after at a boarding kennel for a fee that ranges between $20 and $30, and you will have peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.
Pet Sitting
Hiring a pet sitter is a more affordable option than boarding your pet in a kennel. It’s possible to find a sitter to walk your dog while you’re gone for an additional cost. The average cost of a pet sitter is between $10 and $20 per session.
Professional Grooming
Since Labrador Retrievers are notorious shedders, taking him to the groomer once a month will do wonders for his appearance. Typically, you should expect to pay anything from $40 to $60 for this.
Emergency Fund
Putting money aside in case of illness or injury may sound gloomy, but it’s actually a very good idea. You should save up between $1,000 and $5,000 in case your dog requires unexpected medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular purebred dogs, so that demand has a big impact on the cost.
Labrador Retrievers do well in most households, especially active homes that can channel their energy.
Labrador Retrievers are among the most affectionate and friendly purebred dog breeds around.
Conclusion for “How Much Do Labrador Retrievers Cost”
If you’re interested in Labrador Retrievers, you should be prepared for the cost associated with your pet beforehand. But rest assured, once you do bring your dog home, all of these expenses will prove to be worth it.
Now that you have a better understanding of the cost behind Labrador Retrievers, check out:
- How much does a Goldendoodle Cost? (2023)
- The 8 Best Labrador Breeders in the UK! (2023)
- Best E-Collar for a Labrador! (2023)
Learn more by watching “LABRADOR RETRIEVER – ALL About This Popular Breed” down below:
Garrett loves animals and is a huge advocate for all Doodle dog breeds. He owns his own Goldendoodle named Kona. In addition, he volunteers at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, where he fosters dogs and helps animals. Garrett enjoys writing about Doodles and believes that dogs can teach humans more about how to live than humans can teach a dog.
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