Every Dog’s Chance

Labrador Retriever Dogs for Adoption

3,828 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 3,571–3,600 of 3,828 below.

About adopting a Labrador Retriever

Few dogs arrive at a shelter as visibly eager to please as a Labrador Retriever, and few are as easy to underestimate during puppyhood and adolescence. Labs are famous for being friendly and food-driven, which makes them quick to train, but a young Lab is also a big, exuberant animal that may not have learned where its body ends.

Expect a Lab under a few years old to want a lot of activity. Retrieving games, swimming where available, long walks, and sniffing outings suit them well, and many settle noticeably once they have had a job to do. Counter surfing and pulling on leash are common habits to work on. Because they love food, reward-based training tends to click fast.

Labs commonly do well with children, other dogs, and busy households, though a bouncy adolescent can knock over toddlers by accident. Adults in rescue are often past the chewing stage and grateful for a couch to share. Ask the shelter or rescue what they know about the individual dog's history, any weight concerns to raise with your veterinarian, and how training has gone so far.

3,828 Labrador Retriever dogs available — page 120 of 128

Photo of Jeffrey, adoptable Retriever, Labrador / Hound in Marshalltown, Iowa

Jeffrey

Retriever, Labrador / Hound • Male • 4 years

10/10 The Goodest Dog · Needs an active home · Dog Selective · Big baby · Knows Basic Commands · Housetrained · Velcro dog · Zoomie pro · Good with Ca…

Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown • Marshalltown, IA

View profileView Adoption Page ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Labrador Retriever dogs by state

Texas862California672Florida269North Carolina178Arizona119Missouri115Georgia108New York99Pennsylvania87New Jersey82South Carolina68Oklahoma67

Other breeds

Pit Bull Terrier6645German Shepherd3653Mixed Breed2739Terrier1926Chihuahua1769Staffordshire Terrier1689Australian Cattle Dog1172Siberian Husky1036Shepherd963Husky766Boxer729Hound701

Adopting a Labrador Retriever — FAQ

Do Labrador Retrievers shed a lot?

Yes, Labrador Retrievers shed steadily and drop more coat in spring and fall. Regular brushing keeps it manageable, and the short double coat needs little else. If someone in your home is bothered by dog hair, spend time with an adult Lab before deciding whether the breed suits you.

Are Labrador Retrievers easy to train?

Labrador Retrievers are among the easier dogs to train because they are food-motivated and enjoy working with people. The challenge is channeling their enthusiasm, so short, upbeat sessions with plenty of rewards work better than long drills. Consistency from the whole household matters more than any single technique.

Is a Labrador Retriever a good choice for an apartment?

A Labrador Retriever can live in an apartment if you commit to daily exercise and mental work outside the home. Young Labs are large and energetic, so without walks, fetch, and training they may chew and pace. An adult Lab from a rescue is often a calmer fit than a puppy.

How do I adopt a Labrador Retriever?

Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance simply gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find.

Are Labrador Retriever dogs a good fit for first-time adopters?

Many Labrador Retriever dogs — especially adult dogs who are already house-trained — can be a great match for first-time owners. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them can tell you about that dog's individual energy level, training, and personality before you apply.

How much does it cost to adopt a Labrador Retriever?

Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue, but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health check. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.

Are Labrador Retriever dogs good with children or other pets?

It depends on the individual dog more than the breed alone. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you about their history with kids, cats, and other dogs. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone before you commit.

Can I foster a Labrador Retriever instead of adopting?

Many shelters and rescues offer a foster program, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering a Labrador Retriever gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home, which is a great way to see if the match feels right before committing. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is an option.

What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a Labrador Retriever?

Most dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. A consistent routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you. The shelter or rescue can tell you what to expect from the specific dog you're adopting.