Labrador dog breed

Insurance for your Labrador

Labrador retrievers can be prone to developing certain health conditions, such as:

• Hip dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Cruciate ligament rupture
• Epilepsy

It’s advisable to choose a reputable breeder and make sure that your Labrador puppy has had all the necessary vet checks before bringing them home. Regular check-ups with your vet help to keep your lab fit and healthy.

Pet insurance gives you peace of mind when caring for your dog. You can relax knowing that your dog is covered for any unexpected illness or injury. Labrador insurance could help you to cover the cost of vet bills, including treatment, medication and even surgery.

Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance for Labradors

We offer a range of dog insurance options, from time limited insurance to lifetime and maximum benefit. Each dog insurance option could help to protect you financially if your Labrador needs vet treatment. Plus, we have a range of cover levels to suit your needs and budget.

Sainsbury’s Bank can provide new dog insurance cover for your Labrador from eight weeks and up to eight years of age. Once you have cover in place with us, you can insure your Labrador up to any age as long as you keep renewing the policy without a break. As with all insurances, policy limits, excesses and exclusions will apply.

How to care for a Labrador

Food and nutrition, grooming, exercise and health care are all important parts of looking after your Labrador. It’s important to make sure you know about the needs of this breed, before buying your new pet.

Temperament and behaviour

Labradors are affectionate and love human interaction. Their patience makes them perfect family pets, an ideal furry friend for your children.

Because they’re energetic and intelligent, they’ll need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Playing with them and teaching them tricks will help keep them entertained. Make sure there are plenty of toys for your dog to play with. It will give them something to do, make them happy and keep them out of mischief.

Common health problems

There are a few common health problems linked to Labradors, which are listed below. Making sure you have Labrador insurance can help cover the cost of vet bills for these conditions.

So, is a Labrador right for you?

Labradors are one of the most popular breeds of dogs. With their fun personality and gentle temperament, they make great pets for any home. Just make sure you have the time to keep them well exercised and don’t forget plenty of dog toys to keep them entertained.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Lab a good house dog?

Labradors can make excellent companions around the house thanks to their intelligence and keenness to please. They can be trained not to jump on furniture, to stay in certain parts of the house, and to go to the toilet outside. However, they do require a lot of exercise to burn off excess energy, and if they don’t get enough they may become destructive out of frustration.

Is a Labrador a low-maintenance dog?

In terms of grooming, Labradors are relatively low maintenance. Weekly brushing and monthly baths are enough to keep their coats healthy, but they will shed around the house so you might find more regular vacuuming is required.

How much walking do Labradors need?

Labradors are high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercise. At least an hour of walking is needed every day, as well as training and games to keep their brains occupied. A Labrador that hasn’t has sufficient exercise may be prone to weight gain and destructive behaviour.

Is a Labrador a beginner dog?

Labradors are often referred to as beginner dogs as they are easy to train compared to a lot of other breeds. Their intelligence, willingness to please, gentle loving natures and high food-motivation means they learn quickly. However, any dog is a big commitment and Labradors need regular exercise, committed training and lots of love and attention to keep them content and well-behaved family members.