The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world—and for good reason. Intelligent, affectionate, playful, and even-tempered, this dog is equally at home with a family, on the job, or in sporting activities.
But behind its friendly appearance lies a high-energy dog with a unique metabolism—one that is often prone to weight gain if not properly fed.
A Labrador's diet should therefore meet several key goals: support its energy levels, maintain muscle mass, prevent excess weight, and protect its joints.
Whether it's a growing puppy, an active adult, or a calmer senior, each stage of a Labrador's life comes with specific nutritional needs.
This guide aims to give you a clear, practical, and science-based understanding of how to feed your Labrador Retriever according to its age, activity level, health status, and breed-specific characteristics.
What Should a Labrador Eat?
Specific Nutritional Needs
Like all dogs, the Labrador Retriever needs high-quality protein, healthy fats, digestible carbohydrates, and a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals.
However, certain needs are more pronounced in this breed:
- Controlled calorie intake to help prevent obesity
- Joint support, including omega-3s, calcium/phosphorus, and antioxidants
- Easily digestible proteins to maintain muscle mass without excess calories
- Moderate fiber levels to help regulate appetite and digestion
Nutritional requirements vary based on age, weight, activity level, and the breed’s predisposition to joint problems (like hip dysplasia) and weight gain.
Below is a summary table of key nutrients for a healthy, balanced Labrador diet. These figures are indicative and may vary depending on the dog’s life stage.
| Nutrient | Recommended % (Dry Matter) | Main Function |
| Proteins (insect, meat, fish, legumes) | 22–28% | Muscle maintenance, growth, immune support |
| Fats | 10–20% | Energy, skin and coat health, palatability |
| Calcium | 0.5–1.6% | Bone and joint health |
| Phosphorus | 0.4–1.0% | Bone development, cellular metabolism |
| Calcium/Phosphorus Ratio | Ideal: 1.3:1 (range: 1:1 to 2:1) | Mineral balance for bones |
| Omega-3s (EPA + DHA) | ≥ 0.05% | Anti-inflammatory, joint support |
| Dietary Fiber | 2–5% | Digestive health, satiety |
| Vitamin E | ≥ 50 mg/kg | Antioxidant, immune support |
| Vitamin D | ≥ 500 IU/kg | Helps absorb calcium and phosphorus |
| Water | ~10% in kibble (80% in wet food) | Hydration, vital functions |
Source: FEDIAF (2024)
Protein Sources for Labrador Retrievers
Insect Protein
Light, hypoallergenic, and easy to digest, insect protein is ideal for Labradors prone to food intolerances or sensitive digestion. It offers a complete amino acid profile and serves as a sustainable alternative to traditional animal proteins.
Novel Meats (Duck, Lamb, etc.)
These "novel" meats—less common in conventional kibble—carry a lower allergy risk, making them suitable for sensitive Labradors. Rich in amino acids like leucine and glutamine, they help maintain muscle mass while limiting digestive or skin reactions.
Salmon and Other Fatty Fish
High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, these fish benefit the skin, coat, and especially the joints—a critical point for Labradors, particularly those who are overweight or aging. EPA and DHA also offer natural anti-inflammatory effects.
Turkey
A lean, digestible protein, turkey is a great option for Labradors needing a moderate-fat diet, especially sterilized or overweight dogs. It’s also rich in B vitamins essential for energy metabolism.
Chicken and Beef
Classic yet effective, chicken and beef are suitable for Labradors without sensitivities, provided the meat is of good quality (not by-products). Chicken is light and easily absorbed; beef is rich in iron and energy, though it may be too fatty for less active dogs.
Whole Egg
Often called nutritional "white gold," the egg is a powerhouse of amino acids, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E), and minerals. It’s perfect as a complement to a homemade diet or to enrich commercial dog food.
📊 Table – Recommended Protein Sources for Labradors
| Protein Source | Nutritional Benefits | Sustainability |
| Insect protein | Highly digestible, complete amino acid profile, hypoallergenic | ♻️♻️♻️ Very high – low water/CO₂ usage |
| Duck | Rich in essential amino acids, well tolerated, great for sensitive dogs | ♻️ Medium – more resource-intensive farming |
| Lamb | Supports muscle recovery (leucine, glutamine), often better tolerated | ♻️ Low – higher carbon footprint |
| Salmon (fatty fish) | Rich in omega-3, joint support, shiny coat | ♻️ Low to medium – depends on sourcing |
| Turkey | Low in fat, rich in B6, good for dogs on controlled diets | ♻️ Medium – better than beef or pork |
| Chicken | Easy to digest, rich in amino acids, widely available | ♻️ Low – intensive farming, grain usage |
| Beef | High in energy, iron, and B12 but fatty | ♻️ Very low – major ecological impact |
| Whole egg | Complete, highly bioavailable protein | ♻️ Medium – varies with farming practices |
Feeding According to a Labrador's Age
One of the most important things to keep in mind when feeding a Labrador Retriever is that their nutritional needs change significantly with age.
Labradors grow quickly, but they’re also prone to weight gain—so it’s essential to adapt the quantity, frequency, and quality of their food at each life stage.
Labrador Puppy (2 to 12 months)
Labrador puppies grow fast, but their digestive system is still immature. It’s important to choose kibble that is nutrient-rich, easy to digest, and served in multiple small meals to prevent digestive upset and insulin spikes.
Until 3 months of age, 4 meals a day are recommended. From 4 to around 6–7 months, reduce to 3 meals, and by 8–10 months, most puppies can transition to 2 meals a day—depending on their individual rhythm.
Portion sizes will vary depending on the energy density of the kibble, your puppy’s weight, and activity level.
The golden rule is to monitor body condition: ribs should be easily felt but not visible, with a defined waist when viewed from above.
Daily Feeding Chart – Labrador Puppy (Indicative Values)
| Age | Average Weight (kg) | Kibble (g/day) | Meals/day |
| 2 months | 6–8 | 200–250 | 4 |
| 3 months | 10–12 | 270–330 | 3–4 |
| 4 months | 14–16 | 340–400 | 3 |
| 5 months | 17–20 | 400–460 | 3 |
| 6 months | 21–24 | 460–520 | 2–3 |
| 8 months | 26–28 | 500–580 | 2–3 |
| 10 months | 28–30 | 550–600 | 2 |
| 12 months | 30–32 | 580–630 | 2 |
These values are based on kibble with moderate energy density (~3.8 kcal/g) and a moderately active puppy. They should be adjusted according to your dog’s actual needs.
Adult Labrador (1 to 7 years)
From age 1 to 7, the Labrador reaches full physical maturity—but this is also when the risk of weight gain is highest.
Naturally food-motivated, the adult Labrador needs a diet that is both satisfying and moderately caloric, especially if neutered or not very active.
Feeding two meals per day helps support better digestion and weight control.
Daily Feeding Chart – Adult Labrador (Indicative Values)
| Age | Average Weight (kg) | Kibble (g/day) | Meals/day |
| 1–2 years | 30–32 | 580–630 | 2 |
| 3–4 years | 30–34 | 570–620 | 2 |
| 5–6 years | 30–35 | 550–610 | 2 |
| 7 years | 30–35 | 530–600 | 2 |
These quantities are for a moderately active dog fed with average-density kibble (~3.8 kcal/g). For highly active Labradors (canicross, hunting, agility), increase portions by 10–20%.
Senior Labrador (8 years and older)
From age 8 onward, the Labrador enters the "senior" stage. While many remain active, metabolism slows, energy needs decline, and signs of joint or digestive wear may begin to appear.
The goal of nutrition at this stage is to maintain vitality while slowing down cellular aging.
A senior Labrador needs:
- Sufficient protein intake to prevent muscle loss (sarcopenia)
- Moderate but high-quality fats (including omega-3s)
- Fiber-rich food to support slower digestion
- Antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium for cellular protection
- Reduced phosphorus levels if kidney function starts to decline
Two meals a day remains ideal—three may be better for dogs with digestive sensitivities.
Daily Feeding Chart – Senior Labrador (Indicative Values)
| Age | Average Weight (kg) | Kibble (g/day) | Meals/day |
| 8–9 years | 30–33 | 500–580 | 2 |
| 10–11 years | 28–32 | 480–550 | 2 |
| 12 years and up | 26–30 | 450–520 | 2 |
At this age, it's crucial to regularly assess body condition, mobility, and digestion to fine-tune feeding amounts.
Types of Food
Kibble
Kibble is the most commonly used food for feeding Labrador Retrievers.
When properly formulated, it provides all the essential nutrients the breed needs, while being convenient to store, measure, and preserve.
Since Labradors are prone to weight gain, it’s important to choose kibble that is:
- Moderately caloric (330–380 kcal per 100 g)
- Rich in high-quality protein
- With a controlled fat content (10–16% dry matter)
- And ideally enriched with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids
However, quality can vary greatly between brands. Some low-end kibble products are high in cereals, animal by-products, or additives—factors that can negatively impact a Labrador’s digestive and joint health.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Easy to store and long shelf life | Quality varies greatly between brands |
| Balanced formulation (if premium quality) | Often high in carbs in low-end brands |
| Simple to dose according to weight | Less palatable for picky Labradors |
| Slight mechanical cleaning action on teeth | May contribute to dehydration if dog doesn't drink enough |
| More affordable than homemade or raw diets | May contain preservatives, colorants, and artificial flavors |
Wet Food (Canned or Tray Meals)
Wet food is often more appealing than kibble, which can be helpful for senior, recovering, or picky Labradors.
Its high water content (70–80%) supports hydration, and the soft texture makes chewing easier, especially for dogs with dental issues.
However, it's more expensive, less convenient to store, and doesn’t support dental health.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Very palatable, even for older Labradors | Higher price per kg compared to kibble |
| High moisture content helps with hydration | Short shelf life once opened (24–72 hrs) |
| Lower in carbs, often easier to digest | Doesn't support oral hygiene |
| Can be mixed with kibble | Bulky packaging, less eco-friendly |
Homemade Diet (Cooked Meals)
Preparing your Labrador's food yourself gives you full control over ingredients. You can select high-quality meats, vegetables, and carbs, and adjust recipes based on specific needs (allergies, weight loss, etc.).
However, it requires time, basic knowledge of canine nutrition, and proper supplementation to prevent deficiencies (calcium, zinc, vitamin D…).
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Full control over ingredients | Risk of imbalance without vet guidance |
| Tailored to your Labrador’s specific needs | Time-consuming to prepare and portion |
| Often better tolerated by the digestive system | Higher cost if using fresh ingredients |
| Menu variety possible | Short shelf life (a few days) |
| Free of additives and artificial preservatives | Needs specific supplements |
BARF Diet (Raw Feeding)
The BARF diet involves feeding raw meat, edible bones, organs, vegetables, and supplements, aiming to mimic the ancestral diet.
It’s praised for digestibility and benefits to joints, skin, and coat.
However, BARF requires strict hygiene, precise ratios (meat/bone/offal), and is not recommended without veterinary supervision—especially for puppies, seniors, or ill dogs.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Raw proteins are well assimilated | Bacterial risks (salmonella, E. coli) if poorly handled |
| Supports dental health through bone chewing | Requires daily prep and accuracy |
| Smaller stools, good digestion | Potentially expensive |
| Natural source of nutrients (calcium, collagen) | Risk of deficiencies if diet isn’t well balanced |
| Fewer additives, more natural | Should be formulated with help from a canine nutritionist |
Is the Labrador a Carnivore?
The Labrador Retriever is not a strict carnivore, but rather an omnivore with a carnivorous bias. This means it can digest both animal-based foods and some plant matter.
Its metabolism, inherited from the wolf, is still geared toward a protein-rich diet—but living closely with humans has enabled it to adapt to more diverse nutritional sources.
Therefore, the Labrador Retriever can also benefit from other ingredients such as cooked vegetables, easily digestible grains, or alternative protein sources—like insects.
Insect proteins are an exciting innovation in modern canine nutrition, especially for Labradors with food intolerances or sensitive digestion.Insect proteins are an exciting innovation in modern canine nutrition, especially for Labradors with food intolerances or sensitive digestion.
Impact of Nutrition on the Health of the Labrador Retriever
7 Signs of a Properly Balanced Diet for a Labrador
1. Balanced Body Shape and Stable Weight
A well-fed Labrador maintains a healthy figure: its ribs are slightly palpable without excess fat, and the waistline is clearly visible behind the ribs.
A stable weight over time—neither overweight (a common issue for this breed) nor underweight—indicates a good balance between calorie intake and energy expenditure.
2. Shiny Coat and Healthy Skin
The Labrador’s short coat is naturally dense and water-resistant.
When properly nourished, the coat remains shiny, smooth, and free from bald patches—proof of adequate intake of essential fatty acids (omega-3 and 6), easily digestible proteins, and fat-soluble vitamins (A and E).
The skin should show no dandruff, redness, or itching.
3. Steady Energy and Good Recovery
A well-fed Labrador is alert, active, playful, and has good endurance.
It won’t appear chronically tired (a sign of nutrient deficiency or too many simple carbs), nor hyperactive (which may signal an energy imbalance).
The dog engages readily in walks, play, or training—and recovers quickly without lethargy.
4. Regulated Appetite and Healthy Eating Habits
Since Labradors are naturally food-driven, an appropriate diet should satisfy their hunger without overfeeding.
They eat enthusiastically but not frantically or greedily.
They don’t constantly beg for food, nor do they turn away from meals—this reflects a diet that is palatable, balanced, and well-tolerated digestively.
5. Regular Digestion and Quality Stools
A healthy Labrador will have firm, well-formed stools with minimal odor. One to two bowel movements per day, without chronic diarrhea, vomiting, or flatulence, is a good sign of digestive tolerance.
This also reflects a balanced gut microbiome, supported by well-dosed fiber and digestible ingredients.
6. Strong Muscle Mass and Visible Tone
Although prone to gaining fat, a well-conditioned Labrador maintains firm muscles, particularly in the thighs, back, and shoulders.
If the muscles are well-defined and the dog remains energetic, it means the protein intake is sufficient and well absorbed.
7. No Signs of Allergies or Intolerances
A Labrador that doesn’t show compulsive scratching, dandruff, redness around the ears or paws, or digestive issues (gas, loose stools) is likely on a diet well suited to its sensitivities.
The absence of skin or digestive reactions is a strong indicator of good nutritional quality.
7 Signs of an Inappropriate Diet
A poor-quality or poorly adapted diet often shows up through visible changes in a Labrador’s overall well-being.
Here are the main warning signs to watch for:
1. Rapid Weight Gain or Thickened Body Shape
If your Labrador gains weight quickly, has ribs that are hard to feel, or loses its waistline, the diet is likely too high in calories or not matched to the dog’s activity level.
Weight gain is common in this breed and raises the risk of arthritis, diabetes, and early fatigue.
2. Dull Coat or Excessive Shedding
A dry, brittle, or dull coat, along with prolonged shedding or bald patches, may indicate a deficiency in essential fatty acids, proteins, or B vitamins.
If the skin becomes flaky or red, it may be reacting to a poorly tolerated ingredient (like by-products or allergenic grains).
3. Lethargy or Excessive Restlessness
A Labrador that seems low-energy, sleeps more than usual, or shows unusual fatigue may not be getting enough energy or could be lacking key nutrients (like iron, magnesium, or B vitamins).
On the flip side, a dog that’s hyperactive or constantly restless could be reacting to too many fast-digesting carbs (corn, sugar, poorly processed starches).
4. Food Refusal or Compulsive Eating
If your Labrador frequently refuses food—or, on the contrary, gulps meals and constantly begs for more—it may be a sign of poor flavor balance or nutritional imbalance.
Low palatability, artificial additives, or excess carbohydrates can disrupt eating behavior.
5. Frequent Digestive Issues
Loose stools, chronic diarrhea, excessive gas, or repeated vomiting are clear signs of digestive intolerance.
These symptoms may be caused by too many fermentable fibers, poorly digested ingredients (like certain plant proteins or low-quality grains), or an imbalanced gut microbiota.
6. Muscle Loss or Overall Flabbiness
If your Labrador starts to lose tone, has thighs that feel soft to the touch, or shows signs of muscle weakness, their diet may be too low in protein or lacking in essential amino acids.
This is often seen with diluted or poorly balanced kibble not suited to the dog’s size and build.
7. Itching, Redness, or Signs of Allergies
Excessive scratching, paw licking, red ears, or chronic itching may signal food intolerances or allergies—often triggered by poorly digested proteins or additives.
A low-quality or poorly formulated diet loaded with by-products can provoke these kinds of symptoms.
Conclusion
Feeding a Labrador Retriever means meeting very specific nutritional needs, shaped by its build, temperament, appetite, and sensitivities.
This lovable breed is prone to weight gain, overeating, and joint problems—so it requires a carefully balanced diet throughout its life.
Whether you choose high-quality kibble, premium wet food, a properly formulated homemade diet, or a well-supervised BARF plan, the key is to ensure:
- Sufficient, digestible protein
- Controlled fat levels
- Balanced dietary fiber
- Proper levels of essential micronutrients (omega-3s, vitamins, minerals)
Good nutrition isn’t just about numbers—it’s what allows your Labrador to live a full, healthy, and happy life.
By providing your Labrador Retriever with a balanced, personalized diet, you directly support their health, well-being, and longevity.
Source: FEDIAF