Labrador FAQs

Bringing a Labrador into your family is an exciting and important decision, and we know you may have questions about the breed, our breeding program, and what to expect when welcoming a Skyfire puppy or adult into your home. This FAQ section is designed to give you clear, helpful answers based on our decades of experience with Labradors—covering topics like temperament, training, health, grooming, puppy selection, and more. Whether you’re a first‑time Lab owner or expanding your Labrador-loving family, we hope these answers help guide you as you prepare for life with one of our dogs.

Breed Overview

What makes Labradors so popular?
Labradors are well‑loved for their friendly disposition, intelligence, and versatility. They make wonderful family companions, service dogs, and playful adventure partners.
Where did Labradors originate?
The breed began in Newfoundland, assisting fishermen. They were later refined in the UK into the modern Labrador Retriever we know today.
What colors do Labradors come in?
Labradors come in yellow, black, and chocolate, with natural shade variations.
What about silver Labradors?

I don’t believe there is any such thing as a purebred ‘Silver’ Labrador.  The first ‘Silvers’ were produced by a breeder who also bred Weimaraners and was actively looking to produce Labradors that Point.  

The LRC, our parent club, statement on Silvers can be found here.  The AKC Labrador Standard states that: 

Labrador Retriever coat colors are black, yellow and chocolate. Any other color or combination of colors is a disqualification.

Size, Weight & Lifespan

Average size and weight?
Males weigh 80-95lbs and stand 22.5″ to 24.5″ at the shoulder.  
Females weigh 65-75lbs and stand 21.5″ to 23.5″ at the shoulder.  
What is a Labrador’s life expectancy?
Most Labradors live 12–14 years, though some remain healthy well into their mid-teens with good care.

Temperament & Behavior

Are Labradors good with kids and other pets?
Yes — Labradors are typically gentle, patient, and social, but not always aware of their size.  . They tend to be excellent with children and get along well with other pets when properly socialized.
Do Labradors bark a lot?
They aren’t known as excessive barkers, but they may vocalize when excited, bored, or alerting their family.

Training & Socialization

When should I start training my puppy?
Training should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home, typically around 8 weeks old. Early training builds healthy habits.
Are Labradors easy to train?
Yes. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them one of the most trainable breeds.
What are some key socialization tips?

Expose your puppy to:

  • different people and children
  • other dogs and friendly pets
  • various environments and sounds
  • car rides, grooming tools, and handling

Aim for positive, confidence‑building experiences.

Exercise & Mental Stimulation

How much exercise do they need?
A healthy adult Labrador needs 1–2 hours of exercise daily, including walks, fetch, and free play.
Do they need mental stimulation?

Absolutely. Labs benefit from puzzle toys, scent games, training sessions, and problem-solving tasks to prevent boredom.

Diet & Feeding

What is the best diet for a Labrador?

High‑quality commercial food or a balanced, vet‑approved home/prepared diet works well.
Look for:

  • quality protein
  • healthy fats
  • joint-supporting nutrients like omega‑3s and glucosamine
What should I expect for a feeding schedule?
Puppies: 3–4 meals/day
Adults: 2 meals/day
Are Labradors prone to obesity?
Yes — Labs love food and can gain weight easily. Portion control and regular exercise are crucial.

Gooming & Hygiene

How often should they be groomed?
Brush at least once or twice a week. During shedding seasons, daily brushing helps manage loose hair.
Bathing – bathing too often will strip natural oils.  I only bathe if they have rolled in something smelly, or are really muddy.
Do Labradors shed a lot?
Yes. A Labrador with a correct coat will go through two major seasonal sheds annually, but shed little between.
What dental care do Labradors need?
Daily brushing is ideal; at minimum, brush 2–3 times a week. Dental chews and vet cleanings also support oral health.

Health & Wellness

Common health issues?

Indiscrimately bred Labradors can be prone a number of health issues.

  • hip and elbow dysplasia
  • heart disease
  • ear infections
  • obesity
  • progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  • exercise-induced collapse (EIC)

Responsible breeders will have completed extensive health screenings that will dramatically reduce  orthopedic issues and completely eradicate those diseases which we have genetic tests for (EIC, PRA, HNPK, CNM, MCD & more).

‘Silver’ Labradors often have additional skin issues including alopecia, allergies & chronic ear infections.

Preventative care essentials?
Routine vet checkups, vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, dental care, and weight management are all key.
Are Labradors hypoallergenic?
No — Labs shed, produce dander, and are not considered hypoallergenic.

Life Stage Care

Puppy care essentials?
Focus on socialization, basic obedience, crate training, multiple daily feedings, and supervised exploration.
Adolescent stage tips?
Expect an energetic teenager who will test boundaries. Continue consistent training and provide plenty of exercise.
Adult care focus?
Maintain steady exercise, mental stimulation, routine training refreshers, weight control, and annual vet visits.
Senior care considerations?
Monitor mobility, joint health, weight, and energy levels. Senior dogs may need softer bedding, shorter walks, and dietary adjustments.

Cost & Ownership

How much does a Labrador cost?

Costs vary widely. Expect:

  • Purchase price of $3000–$5,000 for a puppy from reputable breeders in the PNW.  Adults will be more. 
  • Prices vary regionally across the country
  • Additional expenses for food, vet care, training, and supplies
Are Labradors good for first-time owners?
Yes — their friendly nature and trainability make them an excellent choice for beginners, but it is important to meet their exercise needs.

Fun & Lifestyle

What activities do Labradors love?

Labs enjoy:

  • swimming
  • fetch and retrieving games
  • hiking and running
  • obedience and agility
  • scent work and nose games
  • hanging out with their people
Can Labradors live in apartments?
Yes, if they receive ample daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their energy level requires committed activity.

Skyfire FAQs

About Skyfire

What is Skyfire?
Skyfire is a Labrador Retriever breeding program focused on producing healthy, well‑balanced dogs that excel as family companions, performance partners, and show prospects. The emphasis is on sound structure, stable temperament, and proven pedigrees.
What makes Skyfire Labradors different?
Skyfire prioritizes responsible breeding practices, temperament, and genetic health. Puppies are raised with early socialization, exposure to household environments, and attentive care to support strong foundations.
What colors does Skyfire typically produce?
Skyfire focuses on breeding within the three recognized Labrador Retriever colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. Exact color availability depends on the parents in each litter.

Puppy Process

How can I reserve a Skyfire puppy?
Families begin by reaching out and sharing a bit about their home and hopes for a puppy. I’ve created a Skyfire Application to help me understand what you are looking for.  Once we chat and decide we are a great match, you’ll be informed of next steps. When a litter is confirmed, I update the website Puppies Available page, so this is a great page to bookmark.  After puppies are here, we ask for a commitment in the form of a deposit – but never before they are born!
How are Skyfire puppies raised?
Puppies grow up right in our home, surrounded by daily activity, household noises, other dogs, cats and lots of activity. We use early stimulation and age‑appropriate experiences to help them grow confident, curious, and ready for the world.
When can puppies go to their new homes?
Skyfire puppies generally go home at 8 weeks old, after their first vaccinations, deworming, and initial health checks.

Health & Care

What health testing is done on Skyfire breeding dogs?
Our adult dogs have comprehensive health clearances so each puppy starts life with the strongest foundation possible.

Skyfire’s breeding dogs aways have:

  • OFA Hip certification
  • OFA Elbow certifications
  • OFA Advanced Cardiac certification (echocardiogram done by veterinary cardiologist)
  • Genetic testing for common Labrador conditions (such as PRA, EIC, HNPK, CNM)
  • Eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist
What vet care do puppies receive before going home?
Puppies receive their first vaccines, multiple dewormings, microchips, and a thorough vet check. We also send you home with records, guidance, and support.

Training & Temperament

What kind of temperament do Skyfire Labradors have?
You can expect a Labrador that is sweet‑natured, eager to please, and wonderfully family‑oriented. Our dogs are known for their stable, biddable temperaments and their joyful zest for life.
Do you help new owners with training advice?
Absolutely. We’re here to guide you through those first weeks and beyond. From crate training to early manners and socialization, we’re just a message away.
Are Skyfire Labradors suitable for children and other pets?
Yes, when properly trained and socialized. The breed is naturally friendly and stable, making Skyfire Labs excellent family dogs.

Ownership Expectations

How much exercise does a Skyfire Labrador need?
Labradors are active, enthusiastic dogs who thrive on daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. As adults, they enjoy 1–2 hours a day, but puppy activity is kept soft and gentle to protect growing joints.
Does Skyfire support new owners after adoption?
Always. We love updates, questions, and photos. Once you have a Skyfire puppy, you’re part of the Skyfire family for life.
Does Skyfire offer adult or retired Labradors?
Occasionally we will have a retired show dog or other adult.  These are well socialized, often with additional training, and depending on the age full clearances.  These cherished adults are of exceptional quality and are priced as such. Availability varies.

Commitment to the Breed

What is Skyfire’s breeding philosophy?
We believe in producing Labradors that honor the breed standard—dogs with beauty, heart, intelligence, and a wonderful desire to connect with their people. Our approach balances health, temperament, and structure to create lifelong companions.
Is Skyfire active in shows or performance events?
Skyfire Labradors can be found in both All-breed and Specialty shows.  I am fortunate to be able to attend shows frequently, and to be able to travel to shows across the country a half dozen times a year or more.  The dogs are great travelers!  While I now focus primarly on conformation, Skyfire Labs have earned titles in agility, hunt tests, obedience & rally.  We’d be happy to chat with you about a future compeition Labrador.
Can I meet the dogs or visit Skyfire?
I’m happy to schedule an appointment to meet you and have you meet the dogs.