The average Labrador Retriever lifespan is 12 to 12.5 years. Although a recent study suggests chocolate Labs live shorter lives averaging 10.7 years, significantly less than black and yellow Labradors. Factors influencing lifespan in Labs include diet, healthcare, management and inherited diseases. Changing these factors can enable you to help your dog live longer.
Contents
- Factors influencing Labrador lifespan
- Genetics, diseases and body shape
- Do pedigree Labs live longer?
- The coat color conundrum
Your Stories
There are over five hundred comments under this article, some are sad, some happy, all about much loved Labradors. Check them out at the bottom of this article, and have a tissue ready.
What Controls Labrador Retriever Lifespan?
Obviously ten isn’t a guaranteed Labrador lifespan for every dog. Some Labradors live a good deal longer than twelve. But some don’t make it to ten.
There are two key categories of factors that influence your Labrador’s life expectancy. And the lifespan of any dog.
- One is the genetic information your dog inherited from his parents.
- The other is the events that happen to your dog during the course of his life. Through puppyhood to old age. Things like accidents, injury and disease.
How Long Can A Labrador Live?
Life span statistics for dogs are often wildly inaccurate, based on outdated information. Luckily, we don’t need to guess. Accurate Labrador life span information comes from data from scientific studies.
Labrador Lifespan Surveys
Two surveys were carried out in 2004 and 2013. The earlier study showed the median age of death in over 500 Labradors was 12.25. The later study gave a median age at death in a group of over 400 dogs as 12.5 years.
A bigger and more recent study published in 2018 looked at over 30,000 Labradors. This one found a median longevity of 12 years in Labradors overall. So the average Labrador lifespan seems to work out at around 12 years.
Is Labrador Lifespan Getting Longer?
The good news is there is evidence that Labrador lifespan might be increasing. One recent study, although it only looked at 39 dogs, suggested the average could be getting closer to 14 years. So our original question “how long do Labradors live” is changing!
The longest confirmed lifespan for a Labrador was 19 years. There are plenty of reports in the comments section below of readers’ Labradors living over 15 years.
You can help your dog to reach these high numbers, but nothing is guaranteed. Let’s look at the genes controlling how your dog looks and behaves. These set broad limits to the lifespan of your Labrador.
Genes & Labrador Retriever Lifespan
Your purebred Labrador inherits a number of Labrador characteristics shared with all other pedigree Labradors.
These genes don’t just control his coat color, the shape of his ears, and the length of his tail. They control aspects of his temperament and susceptibility to disease.
Labrador Body Shape
To some extent Labradors are lucky. They inherit a basically sound conformation or body shape. They don’t have very long spines or short legs that can cause back problems. Their bodies are nicely proportioned and designed for athletic ability, running and jumping.
Labradors have not been bred with shortened faces that can cause breathing problems, or small skulls that can damage their brains. Nor do they have excessive skin or a massive amount of fur. This is great because a good body structure makes a dog naturally healthier than a dog with poor conformation.
Temperament and Labrador Lifespan
Genes control some aspects of your dog’s behavior. And his ability to carry out tasks like running and hunting, or fetching things. However, temperament, including tendency to fearfulness, is influenced by genes and the environment.
One study showed that fear and anxiety has a negative effect on lifespan in pet dogs. Some dogs are euthanized for aggression or behavior problems. So temperament is a factor in life span.
Some dogs inherit a number of genes that improve their chances of good health. Reduced risk of cancer for example. These genes are passed onto their puppies.
How Inherited Diseases Affect Labrador Retriever Life Span
Labradors are relatively healthy, but there are diseases in the breed that can influence how long your Labrador will live and how healthy your dog will be during their lifetime. Some of these diseases, hip dysplasia and CNM for example, we have tests that should be carried out before breeding adult dogs.
There are however no tests for diseases like cancer. A 2004 study showed 31% of Labradors die of cancer, slightly more than the average rate of cancer in dogs overall.
How Size Affects Longevity
Little dogs live longer than big dogs. A quirk of nature we don’t entirely understand. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. But in general the longevity of dogs is strongly linked to body size.
This is the reverse of what we find when comparing species of mammals, like the long lived elephant and the short lived mouse.
Looking at individuals in the same species, in this case the domestic dog, being large is a disadvantage.
As a medium dog size is a limiting factor for your Labrador. The average Labrador won’t live as long as the toy poodle.
Labrador Lifespan and Inbreeding
Genetic diseases establish in pedigree dog breeds like that Labrador breed due to inbreeding dogs that are closely related. The average coefficient of inbreeding for Labradors is 6.5 %. We see adverse effects of inbreeding in dogs at over the 5% level.
Do Purebred Labs Live Longer?
Purebred Labradors outer limits on lifespan are set partially by their pedigree. Mongrels live on average 1.2 years longer than purebred dogs according to a study published in The Veterinary Journey in 2013. This doesn’t mean your Boxador will outlive your neighbors pedigree Lab however, it’s all about averages.
Comparing Pedigree Dogs
When we consider pedigree dogs as a whole, there are differences in longevity between the breeds. Not just in terms of size, though this is important.
There are also differences between different breeds of a similar size. Sometime shorter life spans are linked to poor conformation. Many very tiny dogs have hormone problems, brain problems through skull compression, and a range of other health issues. In comparison, Labrador conformation is pretty healthy.
Let’s take a look now at that topic we mentioned at the beginning of the article. The recent discovery that Chocolate Labs live shorter lives than their cousins.
Color vs Lifespan
For a long time it was believed that coat color had no influence on Labrador life expectancy. With the exception of color dilution alopecia in silver Labradors, it was thought that inherited diseases were not linked to any particular color or type of Labrador.
A recent study of over thirty three thousand dogs has thrown that assumption into doubt. It shows us that black Lab life expectancy and yellow Lab life expectancy is around 12.1 years. While chocolate Lab life expectancy is quite a bit shorter at 10.7 years.
The Chocolates in that study were more prone to ear and skin problems. This included self-inflicted “hot-spots” as a reaction to irritants like fleas. And we don’t know if the two main Labrador ‘types’ differ. So we can’t tell you if English Lab life expectancy differs from American Labs.
The study was a very big sample of dogs. So it is likely that the results represent the wider Lab population as a whole.
How Long Will My Lab Live?
Apart from your ability to be selective over the parents of your puppy, genetic factors are largely outside your control. But as your Labrador grows and matures, there will be life events that happen to him which may influence his life expectancy. Some of these are events that you can control. Let’s take a look at those now.
Accidents & Roaming Impact Labrador Lifespan
Hundreds of dogs die each year in avoidable accidents when unsupervised outdoors. Secure fencing around your backyard and a good recall training command will help you keep your dog from becoming a part of that statistic.
Neutering
It was believed neutering increased life expectancy. Older studies showed a higher death rate for unneutered dogs because they were uncontrolled. They had the urge to roam, the ability to leave the backyard, and therefore got into accidents.
Recents studies link neutering to health issues including joint disease and cancer, both leading causes of illness and death in Labs.
The neutering issue isn’t clear cut, but the principles of training and control will help keep your dog safe.
Vaccination
In parts of the world there are serious diseases that kill unvaccinated dogs and puppies. Vaccination enables your pet to avoid the infections that have the potential to kill them
Overfeeding Decreases Labrador Lifespan?
The biggest influence you can control regarding your dog’s longevity and enjoyment of life is his bodyweight. Obesity is increasingly common in dogs, and Labradors in particular. The direct result of over feeding.
Labradors are greedy dogs good at persuading people to hand over treats and refill the food bowl. Some Labrador parents struggle to judge quantities of food fairly in the face of puppy dog eyes.
Don’t slavishly follow feeding guidelines on packets, but feed according to how your dog looks and feels.
What Do Studies Say?
Studies show reducing calories intake in dogs increases life expectancy a significant amount due to the health impact of obesity. Labradors are all capable of maintaining a consistent lean body mass through their lives, according to a 2003 study. Dog owners just need to be vigilant.
Hungry Labrador Eyes!
Your Labrador does not have a tendency to get fat from their breed. Only to eat a lot and be good at persuading their family to provide food. You have the keys to the larder, and you can resist your dog’s charms.
Slim dogs live a longer, more comfortable life. They defer the onset and impact of conditions like arthritis in older dogs, when they retain a youthful waistline. Be firm about the amount of food your dog eats to ensure the benefits of his company for longer.
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Is Longevity In Dogs Inherited?
To a certain extent longevity is inherited. Some dogs have an inherently higher potential for long life than others. But this isn’t the whole story.
Line breeding and size go against your dog in terms of life expectancy. But being fit, friendly and well proportioned go in their favor. So the average Labrador has a medium range life expectancy compared with other dog breeds.
You Can Help Your Labrador Live Longer
There are some dog breeds that are longer lived than our beloved Labs. And quite a few that are much shorter lived.
You can help to influence your dog’s longevity to a certain extent. If you are choosing a puppy, choose his parents wisely. Make sure that they are health tested and bred by a responsible breeder. Look for a co-efficient of inbreeding that is below 5%. Consider choosing a black or yellow Lab. And make sure the parents have great temperaments, and have been well cared for.
Socialize your puppy thoroughly when you get him home. So that he is confident and views the world as a happy, friendly place. Above all, keep your dog slim. Really slim. When you look into those pleading eyes, make sure you don’t give in to your dog’s request for second helpings.
The Labrador Site Founder
Pippa Mattinson is the best selling author of The Happy Puppy Handbook, the Labrador Handbook, Choosing The Perfect Puppy, and Total Recall.
She is also the founder of the Gundog Trust and the Dogsnet Online Training Program
Pippa's online training courses were launched in 2019 and you can find the latest course dates on the Dogsnet website
I had a yellow female lab named Gabbie for 13yrs4mos. She passed away on June 11, 2016. She was diagnosed with epilepsy around age 2 and was on siezure med the rest of her life. Ultimitely she was diagnosed with cancer in her liver and spleen. Thankfully she was only ill for about 8 days at the end of her life. I now have a new yellow female lab puppy named Ruby. She is 13 weeks and so much fun but I will always miss my sweet girl Gabbie♡
Hi my female labrador is only a couple of weeks away from her 14th birthday.
Born in Stody Norfolk and immigrated at 7years old to NZ.
Fortunately for her she has never been allowed to get excessively overweight and has always been walked twice a day.
Never been spade.
Suffered 2 types on cancerous growths 4 years ago which were removed along with some fatty lumps which have regenerated themselves. So they’re here to stay now. No more ops for this old lady.
She still runs, loves to swim in the Pacific and the Rivers.
A happy dog who is a great friend to all the family.
I have now currently got a black labradoor hes my best friend and always is gaurding are long lane.His name is Percy from thomas the tank engine my brother named him when we were little,hes now 8yrars old and will be 9 on Sep 12th.Hes a brilloant friend to play woth whether its hurling,soccor,gaelic or soccor ect.He loves going to the park and so we bring him there alot and let him go for a swim in the lake????
I want my best friend to live forever????
Hello everyone who posted about your beloved labs. For those who have your labs alive, give them all the love you can. They are wonderful gifts from nature. Be happy with them and let them turn your life into a better life. Labs are always happy and they have such lovely souls. For those who lost your labs, I’m so sorry for your loss. I think I understand your sadness. Every sadness is different, but I really think I understand yours. I was reading all your words I was heart broken… I also lost my lab, she was my family. She was the best thing that ever happened in my life. Just want you to know that there’s someone out there that knows your pain. I miss my lovely girl every single day. I just can’t believe she’s gone. It breaks my heart. I hope you find some peace in your heart. I’m trying to bring some peace to my heart. Rest in peace sweet Daisy, Mocha, Hershey, Cheyenne, Reggie, Duncan, Jake, Milly, Ghost, Lara, Annika, Scout, Alfie, Dexter, Sunny, Chester, Molly, Sandy, Serena, Wilson, Chaka, Oma, Harry, Dino, Jess, Jonah, Bruno, Bear, Lazer, Rolo, Sophie, and all the other sweethearts whose names will appear here, you’ll all be missed.
I’ll leave you one of my favorite quotes. I use to think of this quote when I miss my beautiful girl: “I carry your heart with me, I carry it in my heart. I’m never without it.” E. E. Cummings
I lost my best friend Mocha two days ago, on Saturday September 30th, 2016 . It was on her 15th birthday. My plan was to get her ice cream and cake in the morning. I have been alone, except for her, for the past 2 years. My wife of 28 years left me over a year ago. One son (23) has not talked to me since. My younger son (21) lives close by but is emotionally distant. I got Mocha from a breeder, who was recommended to me, just above the Maryland state line. Everything was normal on Thursday, and even Friday morning. We took our walks. My younger son visited with pizza. Mocha loved the pizza crust. Her weight was always ok at between 85-87 lbs. she would eat twice a day, about a cup of hard dog food in the morning, and in the evening a cup of soft dog food. I always had to add something before she would eat either. Normally a cooked egg, some ground beef, or whatever I was eating. We alway ate together. On Friday morning we took our first of 3-4 short daily walks so she could do her stuff. She always peed, and had a BM twice a day. She has had trouble on occasion over the last few months getting up and welcomed my help lifting up her rear. I knew she was having hip problems, but our vet said this was normal given her age and breed. This past week I also had to help her front legs, but once up seemed ok. She loved people and all other dogs we met on our travels. She too would follow me into whatever room I was in. At night she would bark at me, saying it was time to go to sleep. Once in bed she would lay on the floor next to me. At some point each night, after I had fallen asleep, she would go to the kitchen and finish the night in her bed. Lately I found her still asleep in my room and found it a bit odd. It seemed she had to see me, wherever I was. I am sorry for rambling, but I have not really stopped crying since Friday evening when my sweet sweet mocha could not get up or even lift her head. I called my young son at work and just asked him to come over, which he did. Mocha was breathing very hard. I called the vet, but the office was closed until Satuday. I could have used an emergacy service (another vet), in my heart knew it was the end. My son slept over, and I laid by Mocha all night, watching, feeling her breath, and crying. The vet came to the house at 11am. Mocha, without lifting her head barked as they pulled into the driveway. The vet gave her a fast check, and having seen her just last month, knew as I did that it was time. Outside of my son’s and my crying, all was quiet. Mocha gave a small cry as the needle was given, and she was gone before he took it out. The vet and his assistant stepped out of the house, and my son and I spent a few moments to say goodbye to Mocha. I already sent all her stuff to the local animal shelter, cleaned the house, and now spend almost two days alone in my house crying. I can’t eat or sleep. I keep thinking it was her birthday. Today is Rosh HaShanna, the Jewish New Year, and I can’t celebrate.I still can’t function. I just wish for a few more moments with my sweet Mocha. I miss her so much…
Very sorry for your loss Michael – best wishes, Pippa
So Sorry for your loss. It sounds like Mocha could not have had a better life. You gave her that and she gave you back all the love she could. I have a lab who just turned 13 and is slowing down, showing his age! I pray for the answers to keep him going. God Bless
Verysorry I lost my Cheyenne yesterday monday),had her for 14 wonderful years she started throwing up and couldn’t get up Saturday and I took her to the vet ,she was diagnosed with seizures and they let her and medicated ,Valium. The medicine controlled the seizures but she could not get up. So I too had to make the dreadful decision and let her go, I held her as she left and my heart exploded with sadness. They told me due to her age it was the right thing that probably it was a tumor causing the seizure’s and immobility. I hope your hurt passes as well as mine.
I just had to put my Hershey down, 4 hours ago. I am devastated. Things turned from worse in such a quick time. 3 weeks ago he was fine, then one day he wouldn’t eat, and was peeing constantly. I took him to the vet and found out he had liver disease at 9 yrs old. Today he was vomiting blood and I rushed him to the animal hospital, 5 hours later they called me and suggested I come see him, that he wouldn’t make it through the night. He had a buildup of fluid and wasn’t breathing properly. They had to put oxygen on him to help him breathe. When I got to the hospital to see him. I knew immediately that my baby boy is gone. I loved Hershey so much, he has been all over the states with me and has been by my side 9 yrs and my 2 yr old sons side since the day he was born. I love you Hershey and I will miss you forever
I am so sorry for your loss 🙁 My sincerest condolences, Lucy.
So sorry I lost my lab 3 years ago not really the same thing as 4 hours but we were really. Close I miss her everyday
on 29th september we had to make a painful decision to put our love of our life down which was a beautiful loving charmning golden labrador. Reggie had been with us filling our life with Joy and love until he died at 16yrs and 5 months old. We had shared lots of love and loving moments together, been through happy as well hard times together and the bond between us was greater than anything so that we considered him someone precious more than a son. Our hearts broke deeply and we cried and cried on that terrible day a sad raining day…. He has been gone for 4 days now but it hurts us deeply as we do miss him terribly in our life everytime we look at his photos….. I am crying every morning because it was my routine to wake up to go in the room to say hi to him and play with him… now the whole house feels so empty without the lovely boy and still I am feeling lost…. I just wish that God could send this beautiful creature back to our life…. I do offer food for him I front of his photos and flowers everyday hoping that he is still around us feeling our love and how much we do miss him…. Please rest in peace our lovely boy… we will always keep you deep in our hearts… we feel helpless that we could not keep you any longer with us…. it will take very long time for me to heal this pain…..
My black lab babygirl turned 14 aug 1st she has been with us since she was 8 weeks I call her a person in a dog suit, in the last year she has had problems with her skin and a lot of ear infections. She has always had a healthy appetite she still does but losing a lot of weight fast. As long as she still eats, drinks, can go potty on her own, she barks and wags her beautiful tail I think she will let me know when shes ready, She is the love of my life and im trying to prepare myself for the inevitable, she lies at my feet now as I type this. I love her so much and I always will. My sweet sweet Babygirl.
We just put down yesterday (at home) our beautiful 16 year old chocolate lab Duncan. My heart literally hurts. Labs, I could swear, are humans in furry suits. Duncan also suffered from a lot of ear infections and our vet said he was allergic to chicken and beef. So he was put on an all fish diet. It helped a lot. I have never fed him dog food and he was eating chicken and beef and pork with vegetables daily. I believe that is what contributed to his long, beautiful life. Believe me your beautiful Babygirl will let you know when she is ready.
I can understand your pain as we are going through the same thing…. tears still come in my eyes when typing this….
Nikita is 15-1/2 years old and is an English Black Lab that we purchased from a friends champion labrador breeder. She has significantly lost her hearing in the last year or so and has been slowly declining although still very affectionate and happy to have our family around her. Recently she is losing interest in eating and she always looked forward to meal time. She still enjoys being beside us and now takes shorter walks with us. We have had her on a raw food diet for the majority of her life with no table scraps, lots of supplements and healthy treats and so blessed she came into our lives. We lost her sister Bella an American Black Lab 2 years ago at the age of 15 and it helped having Nikita as we all comforted each other mourning Bella’s loss.
10 years ago I lost my Jake. He was 13yrs old and the greatest dog I have ever been a parent to. He worked with me daily for 7 years and then became the protector of my family as my 2 boys were able to walk. The weeks before his last day we had taken him to the vet only to learn his wind pipes had become paralyzed closed and could no longer breath the way he should. Laying on the bed he sounded as if he had just run 20 miles. It was time. I took work off 8 different times in a 2 week time span to have him put to rest only to weep and cry and not go thru with it. Jake had hearing loss also so getting his attention from any distance was very hard. Due to his struggles to breath running was out of the question. I stood at the edge of my drive way one day and saw that he was headed out of my yard… I softly said his name as I have for 13 years and he stopped looked at me and I told him to come. Jake ran (first time in a year) to me with a look on his face that told me ” I’m ready and you too need to be ready to let me go” He was happy content and very brave. He loved protected and gave me and my family years of happiness. I had to let him go. It has been 10 years since I have seen Jake and as I sit here crying writing this I still know he is here with me in spirt. His final resting place is in my yard with a yellow lab statue and head stone that says “if Tears could build a stairway and memories a lane… I would walk to heaven and bring you home”. RIP Jake. I was asked the same question. Would you ever replace Jake? There will never be a replacement for my child(puppy) and I always said that I would never go thru that again. 5 years ago I was driving down the road only to find a man selling cocker spaniels stopped just to look and saw the runt. picked her up and here she sits with me 5 years later. She is my daughter my sons sister and the next most wonderful puppy in a whole different way. attached at my hip 24/7. I came on this sight because we are adding a new addition to our family… A charcoal lab. Sophie My son 20 years old will have her the 21 of this month and will ( his words be a dad ) we cant wait. thanks to all of you for your stories of the past and present. the memories and I add to the prayers for all the loss that I have read. I don’t know why they are called pets as Jake and Daisy are my children. you never get over the loss you just have to move on. I love them all the same. Good luck to you all.
I have a almost 16 yr old yellow lab (will be 16 on Oct 24th.). She was my Christmas gift from my husband and has been Ms mom to the kids when sick or hurt and every animal we brought home. My Jessie isn’t doing well now, she has a cataract and going blind in one eye, having trouble getting up or eating. Had to separate her from my other two which are a 5 yr old black lab/cocker spaniel mix and a almost 1 yr old boxer. Both are crying for her constantly but she deserves some peace. Even our 8 yr old cat checks on her several times a day. Not looking forward to her going but not going to let her suffer or torture her with tests. She deserves better. She will always stay with us just like my son’s cat Goofy who we lost last yr at 13 yrs old.
Our gorgeous chocolate lab will be 15 years old in November. He’s suffering a bit with a few things just now, but up until this year has been a healthy boy. He still tries to jump about like a puppy and when it’s dinner time he runs round in circles and gives me a bark to tell me to hurry up. I just want to make this time a happy, healthy and pain free as possible, he has been my constant loyal companion all these years and I love him so much. I keep his weight at 37 kgs to help his back legs and he’s been on metacalm for about 1 year. We are so blessed to still have BOBO at this age and hope we still have him for a considerable time to come…
I lost my Sunny yesterday – Silver Lab who is turning to 14 years. He is a lovely, funny and smart dog. He gave me a lot of happiness. I miss him too much
Hi Penny, We are so very sorry for your loss. Sincerest condolences, Lucy.
sorry for your loss penny. i have 6 labs 3 are rescue. ages. two are 6. two are 9. one is 12 and oldest is 13.
our 12 yr old black lab roxy has thyroid cancer. hyperthyroid cancer is not common in dogs. not a large mass but several nodules moving down to her lungs. she has all the symptoms humans have. since november 2015 she has gone from 90 down to 60 lbs. racing heart and short of breath and long periods of sleep. she is somewhat blind and deaf. roxy has been with us since she was 1 year. our first dog. you can’t ask a mother who her favorite child is right ? roxy is so loved and adored. tender with the grandkids. was a playful and active pup.
we are waiting for a sign and it won’t be much longer. she has a history of an ACL surgery that slowed her down at 7 yrs.
she is not showing signs of pain but i have found most dogs don’t. this will be a dark day and a black fog when we have to say good bye. she will be sorely missed.
my husband and i just discussed that eventually we will be putting to sleep 5 more dogs. what a daunting thought.
please keep me in your prayer and i will post roxy’s final time on earth. thank you for this wonder page. it’s so cathartic to share my feelings with other dog lovers.
We have our wonderful Ellie, she is a working lab and is now 14yrs 2mths, she was born in a stable and has always lived in a kennel. She came to work with us last season and worked for part of the day, she will come with us again this year but just for the day out, although she will want to join our younger labs. She was our first ever lab, we now have a 6yr & 5yr old and mid Sept we are picking up our 4th little lab. Although grey around the mouth and a little stiff Ellie is doing just fine, dreading the day she leaves us.
Our golden lab Milly died Monday night, she was 13 and we had had he since she was 8 months from a rescue centre. She had a large growth in her stomach for several years but she didn’t seem too bothered by it. She had been her usual self all day when she suddenly started panting and shaking. We rushed her straight to the vets, 2 hours later we were home and Milly was gone. It seems the cyst had spread to her liver. We are all very upset but at least it was quick with no suffering.
I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences 🙁
I just lost my sweet lab named Ghost, who turned 15 in March, 2016. He was an amazing creature and seemingly healthy at the time of his departure. It was quick as he suffered a heart attack and seizure. He died on the drive to the emergency vet. The shock of it is challenging to get over. He tried to hold on, but I told him if he needed to leave, he was free to do so and I would be ok. He took his last breath on Sat July 30, 2016 and the loss is tough to deal with. I am so lucky to have enjoyed his companionship for so long, though I really thought we had a few more years of partnership left in this life. I miss my friend. Love you Ghost!
I am so sorry to read of your loss. It is great that you had up to 15 wonderful years with him. I have just found this site,as we have been discussing getting a lab for a long time now and the time has come!
I hope that I will enjoy my time with our new companion as much as you have with Ghost.
Yvonne xxoo
I am a foster for Secondhand Hounds in MN. I just got Cody, a 13-year-old black lab. He is the sweetest dog and loving. His owner was 80 years old and had a severe stroke and couldn’t take care of him any longer. He is appears to be deaf and visually impaired, and very overweight, which I will help him lose the extra pounds. I love labs 🙂
Hi Lori,
I have a 10 year old lab and the vet told me that he needs to loose 10kgs. His diet includes 2 cups of Pedigree Senior in the morning and a bowl of boiled rice with shredded chicken and vegetables. Can you please give me some tips on how I can make sure he looses the extra weight? He has started avoiding long walks or any exercise. Thank you!
Our 10 year old has always been a reasonable weight – 27 -30 kgs. We give her a half dog chew for breakfast, and occasional treats like broccoli stalk, carrots, apple or pear, and sometimes very rarely something yummy. She has a cup of kibbels for evening meal. The vet told us to use a generic brand not the richest ones which are fattier. She’s healthy and happy, but her walks have recently slowed down, but she still has a 3km walk most days.
It is helpful to read this as I sleep on the floor with my sweet Belle, my black lab. We got Belle at 8 weeks, she is my best friend truly unconditional love. Belle was diagnosised with diabetes 3 years ago and has done well until 6 weeks ago her hips are betraying her. She had a low platelet count suspicious of cancer. I currently have her on insulin and 2 pain meds. It doesn’t seem to be giving her quality. She is incontinent now, my heart is breaking. I think it’s time to let her go but that sweet face, loving licks and cuddling makes it seem like she isn’t sick. I know she is. The vet said labs never lose that sweetest not even with their last breath. She is the only dog I have had and truly I love her more than I ever knew I could. Praying for the answer as I lay with her tonight. Thank you for your stories they help
Praying for Belle!
Starting a paw prayer circle for your sweet Belle. My baby Wilson was called home last Sunday. He lived a nice long life being almost 16. Eternity wouldn’t be long enough though. Willy was incontinent also. I purchased wrap diapers for him. He used them for the last year of his life. They were very helpful as he couldn’t make it outside anymore. Your vet is right. Wilson never lost his sweet temperament. Not ever. All he wanted from me was to know I was near. That’s all they want from you. That gives them comfort and peace.
On the morning of July 19th, 2016 I had to have Sandy my yellow lab/golden retreiver put to sleep. It was done at home with my two sons one to be 25 mid-August and my second son will be 23 mid-Sept. Happy that they were present and so were two of my friends. It was a heart-wrenching decison, but she had trouble the last two years with her back legs having degenerative disc disease. She deteriorated this past year quite rapidly. She was adopted at the age of 6 mo. from the SPCA when my sons were 10 and 8 years old. She was 14 years 7 months less a day, she would have turned 15 on Dec. 20th. She was the most gentle, lovable and loyal companion. She was always happy and she followed me everywhere, even to the bathroom! She was extremely sociable, with all types of dogs, and everyone at any age. She was sweet, sensitive, passive and shy. I named her Sandy because her coat was like the color of sand on the beach. She brought a lot of happiness and joy throughout all the years we had her. She was the closest to me since I was the one who was mainly responsbile for walking her daily and feeding her, bathing her once per month, driving her to vet appoinmtents and to the groomer. I committed myself to being there for her throughout her life.
You cannot put a price on the value of a dog who gave unconditional love every day of her life. Sandy will be missed greatly by family and friends. I have her ashes in an urn with photos of her so I can talk to her anytime. I know she is in heaven where she has no more pain and struggle to walk anymore. I was so lucky to have her live as long as she did. I actually felt her spirit the night she passed and I felt her presence the next day when I was working. My girlfriend said she returned to check that I was okay. So I know show she must be in a peaceful place. I think about her daily and I miss her deeply. She will always be in my thoughts and heart.
Very sorry for your loss Martha, thank you for sharing your story with us.
Thank you Pippa. That means alot. Many people do not know what to say. I told them just saying: sorry for your loss is enough. Others ask me if I am going to get another puppy. How would I even think that? My dog will never be replaceable by me getting another dog. I need to greive her for how long it will take. It was also very difficult to donate all of her belongings. However, I talked to Sandy and told her other dogs who have little can benefit by using her things since she will not be using them anymore. Since my dog was declining in health, two years ago, I was preparing myself mentally for her for when the day would come. But no matter how much you prepare, it is still the most painful, sad and final decision I had to take. Last of all, I am sure my dog knew she was leaving us and I know she was ready to leave us too. She was no longer having the quality of life. With her walking so slowly and many times she was in too much pain to get up. I had to help her to get up by gently lifting her in the back. When she did go out she was happy to walk in the sun as she always loved the warm sun since a puppy. She still tried to chase squirrles, but she could not run anymore. Despite her health, she was full of energy to meet other dogs she spotted. She slept alot lately. However, she had no problems to eat. Her appetite was always the same. She had great hearing, eyesight and especially smell. Although I saw that she was losing her balance and her memory. Since her passing this week, I feel so lost. My routine of walking her at 5 am and 9 pm are gone. I no longer have to feed her. She would greet me when I opened the front door, and I always heard her walking around all the time. She seemed to do alot of pacing. I miss seeing her come around the corner to greet me when I was in the living room. I used to check on her since she always slept beside my bed. When I automatically check on her, she is not there anymore, and all the other places like in the corrider between the bedrooms. I was always afraid to step on her when passing through. I have the memory of her laying on her side on the cool wood floor. I miss her deeply. Pippa, it is just by chance that I went on this site to inquire as to how long labs lived. Other owners have had labs live to 16 or 19, which I never knew before and found it just amazing. My vet said it was rare that she saw labs live as long as mine. Most live up to the age of 10 or 12. I see it is not that rare, by reading the other owner’s posts. It was interesting to see how our stories were so similar, since I knew that this breed had the inherited back problem with the hind legs. I was told about it at the SPCA by the volunteer who took her out of the caged area of all the dogs and he discussed the history of the lab breed. Finally, to say I AM SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF THE OTHER DOG OWNER’S LABS who wrote up a post here. We all know how much it hurts since our dogs were part of the family. Thanks again, Pippa.
I had to have my lovely chocolate lab Lara put to sleep 0n 8th July this year , she would have been 15 years old on 24th July. 4 months ago she started coughing up blood once or twice per day , i took her to the vets and was told given her age that she probably wouldn’t last much longer , but apart from the coughing she was very well , I put her into the vets at the end of June for blood tests and chest X-ray , the blood tests were perfect { the vet was amazed at how healthy they were} but the X-ray showed a massive tumour in her lung , she continued to be well until a few days before she died , when she couldn’t eat properly , she wanted to eat but could only take a mouthful at a time, it took her a good hour to eat her dinner. On that awful day , i came home after being out for a couple of hours and she was coughing really badly , I tried to give her a drink but she couldn’t take it , that’s when i knew i had to let her go . People always say you know , when the time is right and it is true. The vet was very supportive and said that it was the kindest thing to do as she was suffering . I miss her so much . She was an amazing dog but I had to let her go with some dignity.
Very sorry for your loss. My Sundae (Yellow Lab) was put down last November after 15 lovable and loyal years.
Hi I had 2 Labs
Prince !One was a Black lab pointer He lived until he was 19 greatest friend for many years ,
The other princess is a golden lab she is now near 16, do not how long more she will last as it seems her back legs are going she now finds it difficult to move around we got her when she was about 7m old she had been mistreated when a pup !
As we only have her now she seems to be a little deaf
But she is happy she can’t do exercise now the grand kids love her as she has always been their when they call ! They are getting older now so I don’t think she will be around to long more !
Just came back from a walk along the river with Mulberry who turned 16 last month. She’s half blind, pretty deaf, badly arthritic in both hips, has a blown ACL, Cushings disease and was diagnosed with a liver tumor 3 months ago. She’s still always up for a stroll (short) and is still eating though a bit less. She is a trooper and while I know it won’t be much longer until she lets me know she’s had enough she’ll be with me no matter how many time I have to pick her up or carry her up and down the stairs. She still comes to the office with me every day.
I have an almost 14 yellow lab, Ashy, and have finally made the hard decision to allow her to go to doggie heaven. She weighs about 60#, has a fatty tumor on her side as big as a football. Between the football, hip dysplasia and knee issues (she had surgery on both rear knees when young), it is very difficult for her to get up, walk, sit, lie down, everything. She loses her balance, falls down a lot and we have to help her up 90% of the time. I cannot watch her struggle any longer and I cry every night. I know it is the right decision for her as her quality of life leaves much to be desired. What makes the decision is so difficult is that, despite her physical struggles, she seems happy, devours her food and does not have the ‘I’m ready, mom’ look. How do you know for sure it’s time? We are going to have a vet do in-home euthanesia so she can just go to sleep, but even so, I am not at peace with the decision. We have had her since she was a puppy and she has brought so much happiness to us it will never be the same without her…there will only be a big empty hole in our hearts.
Hi Cheri, I am so sorry to hear that Ashy is struggling. You might find this article of some help in making your decision: https://www.thelabradorsite.com/knowing-when-to-let-go-of-your-labrador/
My god we just experienced the same thing! We put our beloved Annika down today and we are devastated…….If it means anything, you are not alone in your pain. Best wishes.
I lost my 12 year black lab yesterday. She was a sweetheart in every way. She grew up with my children … Now 12 and 17. She loved her walks and even carried the leash in her mouth not wanting me to change my mind about going. She carried at least one of our socks or shoes around with her always dropping them somewhere… Even outside. We will miss our dear friend and we could never replace her. She was a rescue.. And I have to say I feel like she rescued us. Truly an unforgettable dog…. Forever in our hearts. She was suffering though..vet could not pinpoint without many tests but her illness was pointing to kidney failure as she had stones or cancer..we passed with our family around her and as I took her outside last night she left me right there in our yard. We buried her not to far from where the kids swing set was and we all miss her terribly! We leaned on her for love and support and now that she’s gone our hearts are broken!
My black lab died the 28th of July 2015 he was 16 years and 7 months his name was shadow i had him since he was 8 weeks old l miss him everyday
Alfie 2002 -2013,I watch and read this site every day, My heart goes out to all those loving people that have to make a final decision, I lost my most wonderful pal companion last May, 2015 I have NEVER recovered from that decision and my health has been badly affected, I think vets do the best they can but a lot is guess work as mentioned, I refer to dear Helen July, don’t you think that the trauma of losing a beloved friend which is incalculable they would impart with the ashes, disgusting Helen, a loving owner who watched her companion die.. in the VETS too , truly disgraceful and criminal..I spent pounds on my dog Alfie aged 12 two weeks off his 13 birthday and it was not disclosed truly what was the matter, I will never have another dog to fill the rip off vets again and suffer the pain of loss,If you are not a dog owner you will never understand such pain, You would not go to Sainsbury’s and pay a consultation fee before entered the store to do the weekly shop ,yet you pay to go into the vets and have to pay for a shopping list of medication and they have the cheek to charge the same admission/ consultation fee to visit them next day..These vets in my opinion milk the emotional attachment of the owner,and if I was a vet I could not look in the mirror and go to work knowing I am earning a living by exploiting a distressed owner based on there emotional attachment….
They do not consider the pain of loss to the owner and they stick a notice up saying £5.00 to fill in an insurance claim form..I have found out what my Alfie died of and it was Cushions disease . All the symptoms add up but we were never told,
This will make you cry I picked him up from the cremation place and took him around the villages where we used to walk and shelter in the church and while I was sitting there the vicar appeared and I told him as he saw me distressed and blessed him on the alter.. I have his ashes buried in the local church yard by my back door and say good night every night and god bless I say a prayer every night and ask the lord to take care of him and ask him to to ask Alfie to forgive me for what I had done , That is sever a long lasting loving relationship..and thank him for giving us my wife also such happy times, I also think and it hurts I quote Who is looking after him now..? I and this is my final comment think the cost of vet visits is the MAIN cause of abandoned dogs as they cannot afford the rip off fees..this is without prejudice…
Hi,I will be bringung our black lab,Sky,to the vet in an hours time. Dont know if I will be bringing her back home. She is 12, and we rescued her 9 years ago frim a miserable life. Im shattered right now,as is my wife. I dont want to go ,and make the decision that we all dread. Wish me luck ,and the strenght to do the right thing. Thanks,John
good luck John
Hi and thanks Pippa. She made it back home this time. I guess I was imagining the worst,based on her recent history ( pancreatitis and cancer). Our vet is excellent,and diagnosed severe case of gastro enteritis. We now have her on a special diet for a 6 week period,and we have to monitor her progress and report back regularly. Looks like we will be lucky to have her look after us for another while yet. Thank you for being here at moments like these. It means more than you probably realize. Regards,John
Good morning
I have had a black lab for about 4 years now ,she was a gift to us,not sure how long the previous owner had her.most recently shes been getting on the bed in the middle of the night waking us up ,she is salavating ,kinda skiddish(scared),shaking,and panting real fast .
I need some input on this if possible
My lab had these signs. She was showing signs she was in pain. First for hip dysplasia and twinges it when she jumped on the bed. 5 years later her second episode of panting etc discovered spleen cancer. Medical helped with her hip dysplasia and arthritis. Good luck!
Hi Jason, my older lab has had infrequent episodes of shaking and panting. He knows they are about to come on and comes to me for help or sits upright right in the corner. Vet said its probably petit mal elipeptic seisures. Nothing to worry about just yet.
I’m so happy that my big Labrador is still fine he’s 16 years old and he still acts like if he was a puppy I love him a lot
We had our dog Scout for15 years, my husband has gone out of town and was gone for 3 days and in those 3 days Scout has lost his appetite and stopped eating but he was drinking so much water I just put it off as he was missing his daddy and that he would pick up his eating habits again when he got home will my husband got home and two days later Scout was still not eating so I took him to our vet the vet took blood test and told me to take him home and make sure that he had ice to chew on and watered down and also bowl of food and that he would call me with the blood work as soon as he got it back I live 25 miles from the veterinaries office and as I was pulling down a dirt road my phone started ringing I answered it it was the veterinaries office our vet dr. Jernigan tell me that Scout had diabetes I felt like such a bad mommy dr. Also told me that they had enough insulin that would keep him alive for two weeks I could not see him suffering for two more weeks so I pulled up to the house came in and got my husband and we went back over to the vet’s office is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do is sit on the floor with my dog looking up at me and me telling him it was going to be okay that he wouldn’t be sick anymore the veterinarian asked my husband would you like us to take care of him here my husband said no that this was the last thing he could do for his big buddy this to bury him in the backyard it was a hard day and everytime I think about it my heart hurts a little bit so whatever you do don’t take it for granted when they’re off their food but they’re just missing somebody or just not hungry get it checked out thanks for listening to my story have a wonderful 4th of July weekend
We had to put our 15yr old Yellow Lab “Dexter” to sleep yesterday. He was our first child. We got him at 6wks old, years before we had kids. Dexter was an amazing dog. In his prime he was awesome at catching frisbees in mid air, he could run 5k’s with me at a 7min/mile pace, and could swim like a fish. He was great with our young sons. He was a big lab at close to 100lbs, but was never fat. We pampered him with the “fresh pet” refrigerated food (like sausage) and he was always indoors except when he exercised. He slept like a king in our bed and had tons of attention. The last 2-3yrs were tough with hip degeneration issues (nerve related) and problems with his wind pipe not opening to breath (surgery corrected this and added yrs to his life, but was $$). The last few months the hip problems and incontinence really took a toll on him and he no longer liked going on walks or even going outside to take care of his business, so it was time. He struggled to walk, stand and even sit down. It was Incredibly tough and sad but better then seeing him in pain. He was my first ever dog and I’ll never forget him. I do feel blessed to have him for over 15yrs, when I’ve read responses from people losing their lab at 8-10yrs. I still wish he could have lived another 10yrs, call me selfish. Labs are awesome!!
Our chocolate lab was just diagnosed with Lymphoma. His name is Barney and is 8 years old. We are torn with what to do. He is over a 100 lbs and was so healthy and happy. Now, he is blind in one eye, running into everything and panting a lot. The options given to us are steroids to possibly (that’s a BIG possibly) shrink the tumors or chemotherapy, which we are told he could live up to another year. Our family is just heartbroken over this decision.
We just lost our friend Bruno at 7y 7m. A yellow lab who was a member of the family since day 1. He was happy and active until about 10 days before his death. We then started visiting the vet daily but it was too late.. Liver cancer they said. We all miss him very much, especially since he left so unexpectedly. We were expecting him to stay with us for at least another 3-4 years. We lived great family moments with him (sons’ graduations, studying for exams, holidays) and we can’t think of living similar moments with another puppy. We are not thinking of adopting anyone else; it has been a huge loss
Sorry to hear of your loss Andrew
I lost my lovely 13.5 year old black lab called jonah to lymphoma in December. We fought it for 3 months. He collapsed with tumour on his spleen in October. This was a huge shock to me as he was a fit healthy dog and this happened to me alone in the woods one night.i tried chemo but every night found a kitchen covered in vomit. He was miserable and his eyes told me so. I made the hardest decision I have ever had to make and sang to him as he died in my arms. He was and always will be my very best friend. This summer I’m lucky to be getting a new puppy from the same breeder and bloodline. I journey on each day heavy with this loss but firmly believing he is still beside me.
Hi i also lost my black lab jess last july 6th to this illness, i took her to vets and tgey wanted to i blood test, i recieved call from vets saying to come in pick jess up as the blood tests seeminly showed her red blood cell count was a bit low and were going to keep eye on it, after going to pick her up 3 and half hours later, they brought jess through to reception were i noticed she was disorientated and confused looking, the next second she collasped to the floor the receptonist and vets assistant ignored my pleas for a vet to have a look at jess but they had all left for home, then this realy bad snoring coming from jess the receptinist then tryed to say the floor was obstructin her breathing, i started geting anioux and kneeling down beside jess i asked if they could bring the vet back as the dog wasnt responding, it turned out jess was slowly bleeding from the spleen for all the time she was in the vets they failed to notice she was dying slowly, then to drag her out the kennel in walk her through made the bleed ingukf her abdomen and while she was choking on her own blood they still insisted she was fine, my jess didnt make it home, and you no i took it as far as i could for the vets negligence but uv not got a leg to stand on unless you get the support of another vet to confirm what i believe happened, but it seems vets dont go against each other, so the vets got away with negligence and still have my dogs ashes in refusing to hand them to me until i pay the 600+ bill for them opening jess up to confirm there near 4hours too late, everytime i thought of jess just geting left to bleed to death in nobody noticing or helping her it still breaks my heart,
I still have my lab Chance he is 14, over weight at 110 and lazy. He is the sweetest dog. I can see the years having a toll on him now, he is losing his hearing but that’s ok. Will love him till he goes.
We had our black Labrador for 19 years, however, he finally and sadly had to be put down through illness.
The look in his eyes as we said goodbye for the last time was hard. The years of happiness he gave our family was out of all proportion to the cost of vets and food etc. He was a very intelligent dog and continually surprised us with the tricks he copied from us, like opening the front gate, his liking for country music [every other type of music he ignored] his companionship and fun loving nature was a lesson to us all. He is sadly missed – don’t think I could ever get a better friend
—- lost my yellow Lab , Sophie, to cancer 8/12/15′ , she was 13 days short of turning 9 . So sweet and gentle and afraid of her own shadow , which was fine , everything about her was fine . i haven’t known emotional peace for one day since she left . i pray all the time to be put where she is . if she can’t come to me , i want God to take me to her . i’m 71 and so ready . ps you to Ginger , another yellow 1995 – 9/25/06′ .
We just lost our beautiful choc lab Rolo last Thursday our hearts are broken but we made a promise when he was diagnosed with a tumour in his chest in December that we would always put him first and would do the best thing for him not us, we wish he could have lived forever. He was only 9 years old too young to leave us fought long and hard and we did too but we lost the battle and him too. We made the decision to get another pup we are now definately designated ‘dog’ people we were always three me my husband and Rolo and life seems bereft without a dog in it. We chose a black working lab so he will be a bit different to our Rolo who was show stock. We will miss him always he still goes to bed with me at night his casket sits by the bed where he always slept so I can reach out and he is still there. He was smart and intelligent learned tricks from his dad, was good with everyone from babies to grandparents ending his suffering was a decision we had to make and was the hardest thing we ever had to do. Sam comes home in 3 weeks if he is half the dog Rolo was he will be brilliant!
Hi Maria, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your lovely Rolo. Wishing you many happy years with your new boy Sam.
Unfortunately my family just lost our beautiful chocolate lab, Bear. What a joy he was, and a much loved family member. Labs are wonderful, intelligent, loyal, family loving dogs. We had the wonderful pleasure of having him take care of us for the last 14 years.
Donna mackinnon-Clarke
Just lost our 8 1/2. Lab /retrieve mix , hour before he died he be came very quiet and no energy and died in his sleep. Lazer Australia he was the most friend loveable lab dog at a most we thin 90-to 100lbs. He was
with us today the end and was love my his 3 teenage boy owners ‘ his mom and dad Donna and John, leave behind to fur brother Rex and oldie and to twin sister cat Zoey and ziggy. He be missed by all. We love and miss you every passing min.
How sad. Very sorry for your loss Donna
Just had to put our furkid, Hershey, a chocolate lab to sleep due to throat tumors/larynx constriction which made it hard for him to get his breath. He was 13.3 yes old and I’m a dang bawling mess right now. So bad I couldn’t go back to work…but they were nice enough to get another nurse to cover for me. We’re putting him under a tree in our pasture, where he lived to play fetch and hop in the pond to cool off. I guess I should be thankful he’s no longer suffering but I’m gonna miss him so much! He was the best dog with an awesome personality!
How sad Laura, so sorry for your loss
My black lab Magic is 15 years and 8 months right now (Born Sept 11, 2000). She is currently battling an ulcerated cornea in her left eye. She underwent grid karatotomy this week and we are waiting to see how the healing process goes. She had the same procedure in her right eye last year and it was a success. Her hearing is not good, her vision is quite impared, and she has some arthritis in her hips, which we are trying to help with the use of Previcox. Despite all of the challenges she still seems to love life! Loves food, walks, attention, snuggles, and standing on the deck to take in some fresh air. She is the best canine companion a person could ask for.
My black lab Jake showed upon to our place of business when I was pregnant with my first child in 1986. After we decided he wasn’t going to leave we took him to the vet for an initial visit. Being from a small rural area the vet said I know this dog. He told us who the owner was and said the dog’s name was Jack & he is 8 years old. No wonder he responded to the name Jake. We happened to know the owner & made contact. He was an older man and said that the dog looked happy and we were welcome to keep him. Jake was with us for 12 years and died on his own in Feb 1998 after asking to go out. He walked toward my parents place next door where treats were always available but collapsed and died. My husband laid down beside him for 5 hours with a blanket until I made him come in. So sad! In 2004 while pregnant with my 4th and last child my husband comes in and is begging me to come outside & look at something. I immediately knew it had to be a stray. Sure enough it was a small chocolate lab mix pup. I told my husband he had to walk the neighborhood & find out who she belongs to. He did and sad to say it looked as if they just let the pups out in hopes of them not coming back. We took her and she is now 12 & just like all my kids have done…she follows me EVERYWHERE..even to the bathroom. She lays so close to the bed at night that I’ve almost killed us both by stepping or tripping on her. She stays at my feet always & is so frustrating when trying to clean, cook or just walk. She walks only behind me and so close that if I stop too fast her nose goes right into my bottom. While I get frustrated I know that all too soon she won’t be here and I will be devastated. Labs are just very loyal dogs and greatest of friends.
I just lost my Chocolate lab today at 12. He had hip problems and got the big growths that labs get on his sides. I love Labs so much but I cannot get them to live longer than 13. They are the best dogs ever and so caring! They love cats and children !! I am getting older and cannot pick up a 90 plus dog any longer but I would recommend a labrador for any family.
My Sons beloved Dino went to sleep on 1st May – we are totally devastated – he was a yellow lab and never had an illness – he was out on his 8am walk last Sunday – my son isn’t coping and i don’t know what to do. he has been to private councillor for help – his heart is broken,
Our chocolate lab just passed away at 14 1/2 years. She was active until a month before she died. The whole family misses her quiet friendly personality. She was a joy to live with.
We have just lost Oma at 17 and Harry in November at 15 1/2. Both retired Guide Dogs. Oma was always very measured in what she did, could never see the point in chasing balls etc, Harry was a much bigger dog average weight about 40kgs and loved swimming chasing balls etc. neither carried any excess weight as we always regulated their food to keep within Guide Dog reccomendations. It certainly seems to have help extended their lives and kept them fit, even though Oma would have loved to have been a barrel like so many Labs you see. She was the greedy one but also loved vegetables. Out vet was always pleased with them. We hope our other two, again retired Guide Dogs both 10 manage as well. They are kept on the same regime both avtive and still have waists, so we will do our best for them too!
Wow Lindsay. Those are long lifespans! Would you care to share the Guide Dog diet recommendations with us? We just lost one of labs at 13.5 years on June 1st. He was high spirited all of his life and ran without the use of his “brakes”! He was such a comical boy and we miss him terribly. Our other lab is 13.2 years and he came to us at the age of 2. He is much more laid back and we are watching his weight. Our walks have also naturally shortened as he ages. Thank you for your post. I also send my condolences for your losses. It’s never long enough…
My Chaka Zulu of Gubulawayo, (Chaka to his friends) was born in Madang, Papua New Guinea in February of 1979. I brought him to Australia where he went to quarantine for 9 months before flying to Maseru, Lesotho, for 2.5 years. Then to the Cayman Islands via 6 months quarantine in U.K.thence to St.Lucia, Windward Isles for another 2.5 years. Then finally to Doha, Qatar, where he died aged 10 in 1989, possibly one of the world’s most travelled black Labradors! He will be loved and remembered forever!
Our Ginger just turned 14. Having some problems with arthritis in hips but controlled with medication. On several supplements as well as a very good dog food. Had a mast cell tumor removed from her foot 2 yrs ago. Recovered fine. She is loving life as we love her. She will always be our sweet yellow baby. Has had a pampered life style.
My chocolate lab lived until he was 16! He was still so happy right up until the day he went to doggy heaven… We all thought he was genuinely going to live forever! His son only lasted for 10 month after him 13 years old. Miss them so much! We now have a 2 year old yellow lab 🙂
Serena passed at 15, I was very conscious of her weight so she lived a happy and health free life. I have two other labs who are 11 and 10 both healthy, so hopefully we will have them for at least 5 happy more years !!
If our dogs aren’t in heaven then I don’t want to go