Loveable Labrador Retrievers: Cost of care and other expenses

The lovable Lab! In the US, these pups have reined supreme as one of the most popular dog breeds in the US for over 30s, and in the top 3 for just as long in the UK. It’s easy to think of Labrador Retrievers as the all-around family dog and good boy/girl companion. But, what is the total cost of a Labrador Retriever? Do these bark babies break the bank, or are they relatively frugal furballs?

Let’s leap paws first into the facts and fiction of having a family Lab and how much these beautiful beasts are likely to cost you each month and throughout their lifetime. What is the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever? 

Joining the family: How much does a Labrador Retriever cost?

Adopting a Labrador Retriever puppy

Average cost: $500-700, £400-500, €400-500

Because of their popularity, there’s a high chance of adopting a Labrador Retriever puppy from a shelter. Puppies that are taken in or born in animal shelters will often be dewormed, vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed or neutered if they’re old enough. Many charities and shelters will be able to provide free tips on training and care before you adopt, and the fee remains the same for all breeds of pups. Adoption costs will vary depending on the shelter, but an extra fee is always added on for pooches under 6 months.

Adopting an adult or senior Labrador

Average cost: $200-300, £200-100, €200-300

Labs can be welcomed into a loving home at any age. There are plenty of pups who are in their adult or golden years that need to find a new forever family. Before searching for reputable breeders, consider contacting your local animal shelter first. Older doggos are often overlooked, particularly if there are puppies to choose from. But many will already be trained, socialized, and up to date with their vaccines, something that will save money in the long run.

Purchasing a puppy from a breeder

Average cost: $1000-2000, £600-2000, €900-2000

As the quintessential homely hound, Labs are in high demand as one of the world’s most popular dog breeds. Be sure to do your research to find reputable breeders who can provide credentials and the medical history of the pup’s parents. If you’re purchasing a puppy under the age of 12 weeks, they won’t have had their first round of vaccines or microchipping, so this will need to be added to the cost too.

How expensive are Labrador Retrievers for the first few months at home?

Essentials and entertainment

Average cost: $600-1000, £400-800, €500-1000

These prices will vary depending on how much you want to pay for dog bowls, poop bags, toys, treats, food, grooming supplies, and anything else you think they might need to settle in. The average costs are the total of the average cost of basic items your doggo will need. Labs are intelligent dogs with high energy levels, so toys and puzzles are counted as essentials.

Microchipping and first vaccines

Average cost: $300-355, £240-260, €250-270

These could well be the first of your new pup’s vet bills, hurrah! In all seriousness, microchipping and vaccines must always be included in Labrador Retriever costs. The sooner they can receive their injects, the sooner they can safely be taken out for walks and play dates. A lot of incurable diseases are preventable through vaccinations, they will improve the life quality of your Lab and protect other pups they want to play with.

Microchipping is also a really important part of Lab puppy care. Should the worst happen and they become lost or wander off, their microchip will tell them exactly where they live and how to contact you, their parents.

Spay or neutering

Average cost: $120-145, £130-300, €140-280

Pet parents, it’s completely up to you to decide whether or not you want your doggo to have the snip. It’s an ongoing debate amongst pets, and there’s no right or wrong answer. But, if you do decide to pay for this simple operation, remember it will save you on possible puppy costs in the future.

Labrador Retriever monthly expenses

Food and treats

Average cost: $20-100, £15-80, €20-80

Each doggos diet is different, although experienced Lab parents will probably argue that Labs aren’t fussy eaters. Seeing as most are known for having the unstoppable appetite of a furry whale, you may decide there’s no reason to folk out for the fancy food. However, always talk to your vet about what they recommend, particularly if they have allergies or they’re an older pup with diabetes.

Grooming

Average cost: $40-80, £30-70, €30-70

Again, this might be something you chose to do at home, and that’s okay. Despite having easy-to-maintain fur, grooming supplies for Labs will need to include the cost of nail trimmers, doggy shampoo and conditioner, brushes, coconut oil for dry noses and paws, and hypoallergenic wipes for their faces. In the end, whether you decide to do professional grooming or have home bathtimes, it’s what’s best for your pup - if they’re nervous and are easily scared, a DIY dog spa might be best, while other doggos delight in the attention of having their fur done at the salon.

Pet insurance

Average cost: $30-80, £15-60, €20-80

While not mandatory for any pet parent, most vets will strongly advise you to purchase pet insurance, especially for Labs. Labrador Retrievers are known for developing hip dysplasia and other joint-related health conditions in their older years.

Another issue with Labs comes from their voracious appetite which can lead to obesity and other related illnesses. Similarly, Labs have a habit of biting off more than they can chew. Regardless of age, most Labs have no ‘full tummy’ mode and can end up eating things that aren’t, well, edible. Stomach pups are common amongst Labs, so pet insurance can help protect your pup and your wallet if these are ever needed.

Vet checks and medical bills

Average cost: $50-100, £60-120, €50-100

If you have pet insurance, your monthly vet bills or vet check-ups won’t be a dog's dinner. Adult Labs will only need a vet visit every 6 months or so, depending on how healthy your doggo is. Puppies and seniors will need more regular check-ups and possibly extra medication - aging Labs may need meds for health conditions like arthritis or diabetes.

What’s the total monthly cost of a Labrador Retriever?

So, what’s the damage (hopefully, not literally)? Well, on a month-to-month basis, take in the possibility of your pup needing at least one essential replacement, their food, pet insurance, a new toy, grooming, and possible cough environmental repairs (we know you know what we mean!), you’ll be looking at a monthly bill of about $600-800, £400-600, or €500-900.

Additional costs of owning a Labrador Retriever

Doggy daycare and boarding

Average cost (per day): $20-50, £20-40, €30-60

While there are amazing, pet-loving services available that offer free pet sitting in exchange for a place to stay… Some pet parents will want their pooch looked after during the day while they're at work, or prefer to use a dog boarding service instead. The cost of doggy daycare and boarding will vary depending on where you live and how often you need to use them. Professional boarding costs include 24/7 care, feeding, cleaning, walking, and entertainment time, as well as immediate access to vet care should they need it.

Professional training

Average cost: $70-200, £20-90, €30-90

As we mentioned, Labs are smart pups and are often considered one of the easiest breeds to train. However, there’s always a pup out there who wants to prove us all wrong! Similarly, if you’ve decided to adopt an older Lab, they may have some tricky behavioral issues or quirks that may require some professional help. While pricey, training from a pro can protect your pup from future accidents or incidents. But, as always, pup parents know their doggo best, so the ball is in your court.

Which is more expensive, Labrador or Golden Retriever?

The cost of having a Golden Retriever will be in the same ballpark as caring for a Labrador Retriever. While Goldies have their own set of health issues as a breed, they are not too dissimilar to Labs. 

Of course, every dog is unique and every living situation is different. Their environment, upbringing, and genetics will all contribute to how much dough you need for them each month.

Do you love Labradors? Or are you lucky enough to have one as part of your family? Connect with other canine carers or animal admirers on our Community Forum to discuss all things doggo. For pet parents looking for a trusted sitter, check out all the dog sitters currently near you who can offer loving, in-home pet care.