Labrador Retriever Growth & Weight Chart: Everything You Need To Know

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Labradors have held the title of the most popular dog breed for over 30 consecutive years. This is because of their loyalty, intelligence, and affection. Labrador Retrievers are among the top 10 smartest dog breeds in the world and can learn new commands in under 5 repetitions.

If you are a proud parent of this incredible dog breed or plan to be one, you should understand the growth stages and expected weight during each stage to ensure your fur baby grows well. Also, to ensure your Labrador Retriever stays strong throughout its life, explore pet insurance policies from Bajaj General Insurance.

Understanding the Labrador Retriever Growth Stages

The Labrador Retriever is a playful and large breed dog. Many physical and psychological changes happen during this stage. As a pet parent, you will love to see your dog grow and transform into an adult.

1. Puppy Stage (0–6 Months)

From the time it is born as a puppy till the time it is six months old, the Labrador Retriever undergoes rapid physical changes. You will notice that a silent, sleepy newborn turns into an active, playful dog within the first six months.

• Birth to 2 Weeks:

At birth, a Labrador puppy weighs between 0.5 and 1.5 pounds (around 0.2 to 0.7 kg). When a puppy is born, it is blind and deaf. It feeds on its mother’s milk and spends most of the time sleeping, feeding, and getting warmth by staying close to the mother.

• 2 to 6 Weeks:

By 6 weeks, a Labrador puppy’s weight is around 5 to 8 pounds (2.2 to 3.6 kg). Slowly, by two weeks, their eyes and ears open and they can now look around and start to explore their surroundings. From their mother’s milk, they will now transition to solid puppy food. As a pet parent, provide them nutritious food as recommended by your vet.

At this stage, the puppy also starts interacting with their other puppies and with you and your family members.

• 6 Months:

By 6 months, the weight of your Labrador puppy is between 35 and 40 pounds (15.9 to 18.1 kg). This age is full of energy and they are curious to explore the world around them. You can start training them at this age so that the habits they develop now will remain with them in adulthood.

2. Adolescence Stage (6–12 Months)

This is the teenage phase for your Labrador Retriever. The puppy now turns into a teen and it is high on energy. Physically the teen dog looks like an adult but behaviour-wise, it can be stubborn and too playful.

• 6 to 9 Months:

Between 6 and 9 months, the weight increases to 40 to 55 pounds (18.1 to 24.9 kg). At this stage, your dog will become stronger and more coordinated. Give regular physical training to your dog to channelise its energy but ensure the physical activity does not stretch beyond 2 hours, as its joints and bones are still developing.

• 9 to 12 Months:

By the time your Labrador reaches 1 year, it will weigh 55 to 65 pounds (24.9 to 29.5 kg). The muscles start building and they become leaner. In terms of personality, you will be clearly able to tell if your dog is calm and obedient, or playful and mischievous.

3. Young Adult Stage (12–24 Months)

The young adulthood stage is marked between the ages of 1 and 2 years. By this time, your dog has grown stronger and more muscular. This is also when its behaviour and temperament begin to settle.

• 12 to 18 Months:

Your dog will attain a weight of around 60 to 70 pounds (27.2 to 31.8 kg). As their body become stronger, you can take them for more structured training and outdoor activities. Also, their skin or coat becomes glossier and thicker, and it marks the beginning of the adulthood stage.

• 18 to 24 Months:

By the time a Labrador reaches 2 years, its weight is 65 to 80 pounds (29.5 to 36.2 kg). Males are heavier and more muscular than females. Your dog will fully develop into an adult by the age of 2 years, but some dogs may grow till 2.5 years as well.

Labrador Retriever Weight Chart: Age-Wise Breakdown

Male Labrador Retrievers are heavier and more muscular than female ones. This is their weight chart from birth till they turn into adults.

The weight and growth of your Labrador Retriever will depend on genetics and nutrition. A puppy of bigger parents will turn into a large adult. Also, protein-rich food will help in making your dog more muscular. But do not overfeed your dog, as it will cause obesity. As a pet parent, ensure your dog is trained to exercise regularly and if you find any unusual conditions or symptoms in your dog, consult your vet and inform them about it immediately.

Conclusion

It can be a joyful as well as an emotional journey to watch your Labrador Retriever grow from a puppy to an adult. But remember, pet insurance for dogs is necessary to cover expenses like vet bills and surgeries. Insurance policies like Bajaj General Insurance’s pet insurance in India provide coverage for accidents, illnesses, and sometimes even routine vet visits.

FAQs

1. How fast do Labrador puppies grow?

Labrador puppies experience rapid growth during the first six months. They can grow from a tiny 1-pound newborn to a 35-40-pound puppy by six months of age.

2. Is my Labrador overweight for its age?

To determine if your Labrador is overweight, compare their weight with the typical range for their age and size. If their weight exceeds the recommended range, consult your veterinarian for advice on diet and exercise.

3. At what age do Labradors stop growing?

Most Labradors stop growing in height around 12-18 months. However, they may continue to gain muscle mass and fill out until they are about 2 years old.

4. How much exercise does my Labrador need?

Labradors are an active breed, and they require at least 1 hour of exercise daily. This can include walks, playtime, and other activities that keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

5. Can I switch my Labrador to adult food at 1 year?

Yes, you can switch your Labrador to adult food around 12-18 months, depending on their growth rate and your vet's recommendations.

*Standard T&C apply

**Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.

***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.