The Red Labrador Retriever: Temperament, Size, Care & More


The Red Labrador Retriever—often called the Fox Red Lab—is a darker shade of the Yellow Labrador. Expect an affectionate, intelligent, and energetic companion that thrives on training, exercise, and family time. Average lifespan 11–13 years, weight 55–80 lbs. Coat color does not change temperament—breeding, socialization, and lifestyle do.
Red Labrador Retriever standing outdoors on grass, alert and athletic
The Red Labrador (Fox Red) — athletic, confident, and people-loving.

Red Labrador Breed Overview

The Red Labrador is not a separate breed—it's a darker shade of the Yellow Labrador Retriever. The “fox red” label simply describes a rich, deeper yellow pigment. Below are quick facts to help you decide if this ruby-coated charmer suits your lifestyle.

Trait Details
Height 21 – 24 inches at the shoulder
Weight 55 – 80 lbs (male typically toward the higher end)
Lifespan 11 – 13 years on average
Coat & Color Short, dense double coat; deep “fox red” is a darker shade of yellow
Temperament Friendly, affectionate, intelligent, energetic, eager to please

Bottom line: You’re getting a classic Labrador—loyal, trainable, and family-friendly—wrapped in a striking, ruby-toned coat.

Red Lab Temperament: Debunking the Color Myth

Coat color does not determine personality. Red, yellow, black, or chocolate—temperament is shaped by breeding (line selection), early socialization, and training. Many Red Labs trace to working/field lines, which can mean higher drive and energy. That difference is about type, not color.

Takeaway: Choose your puppy based on health, structure, and temperament testing—not color alone.

English vs American Red Labs

English (Show) Type: Stockier build, broader head, generally calmer. Fox red exists but is less common in show lines. These dogs often suit families who want a slightly steadier companion and enjoy casual activity over competitive sport.

American (Field/Working) Type: Taller, leaner, more athletic with strong retrieving drive and stamina—most fox red Labs you’ll see are from these lines. They shine with active owners who commit to training, field games, running, hiking, or swimming.

Which should you choose? Match the dog’s energy to your lifestyle. If you’re active and love structured training, a field-bred Red Lab will feel like magic. If you want a calmer vibe, look for show influence in the pedigree.

Red Labrador Temperament

Expect a social butterfly: affectionate, outgoing, and eager to please. Red Labs crave human connection, excel in obedience, and adore interactive games. Some can be sensitive; kind, consistent guidance works far better than harsh corrections.

  • Family-friendly: Typically excellent with children and other pets when well socialized.
  • Brain + brawn: Smart enough to learn quickly; energetic enough to play for hours.
  • Purpose-built: Retrieving, scent games, and swimming come naturally.
Red Labrador being hugged by a woman, showing gentle and affectionate temperament
Affectionate and people-oriented—classic Labrador personality.

Pro tip: Early exposure (sounds, textures, places, people) between 8–16 weeks creates a confident adult dog. Pair that with reward-based training, and you’ll have a dream companion.

Training & Exercise Needs

Red Labs are “go” dogs. Without outlets, they can become chewy, jumpy, or diggy. Build a routine that balances physical exercise and mental work:

  • Daily activity: Aim for 60–90 minutes (adults), split between brisk walks, structured play, and training.
  • Retrieving & water: Fetch, dock diving, or lake days are tailor-made for Labs.
  • Mind games: Nosework, obedience, shaping games, puzzle feeders.
  • Impulse control: Teach “sit,” “down,” “stay,” “leave it,” and calm greetings early.
Red Labrador running through snowy field carrying a stick, showing high energy
Daily exercise + training = calmer, happier Red Lab.

Puppy schedule: Short, frequent sessions. Use the “5 minutes per month of age” guideline for focused leash walks (e.g., 15 minutes at 3 months), plus free play on soft ground. Protect joints—no forced running or stairs for young pups.

Care & Grooming

Like all Labs, Red Labs have a dense, water-resistant double coat. Expect year-round shedding and heavier “blows” in spring/fall. Weekly de-shedding keeps hair tumbleweeds in check and skin healthy.

  • Brushing: 1–2x/week (more during coat blow)
  • Bathing: Every 4–8 weeks or as needed
  • Ears: Weekly checks/cleaning—moisture + floppy ears = infection risk
  • Nails: Trim every 2–4 weeks
  • Teeth: Brush 2–3x/week; add dental chews as support
Red Labrador Retriever puppy lying on a white blanket, looking at camera
Puppies need structure: short training bursts, naps, and gentle socialization.

Feeding & weight: Labs love food. Use measured meals, body-condition scoring (aim for a visible waist and easily felt ribs), and treat quotas (≤10% of daily calories). A lean Lab lives longer.

Health & Lifespan

Average lifespan is 11–13 years. Choose health-tested parents and keep your dog lean and active to stack the odds in your favor.

  • Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: Ask for OFA/PennHIP scores for both parents.
  • Eye Conditions (incl. PRA): Annual eye exams, PRA-clear breeding stock.
  • Ear Infections: Dry ears after swimming; clean regularly.
  • Obesity: #1 preventable risk—portion control and exercise matter.

Insurance tip: Enroll early to lock coverage before issues arise. Pick a plan that includes hereditary conditions and hip dysplasia.

Red Lab Puppy Prices & How to Choose a Breeder

Typical price range: $800–$1,500 from a reputable breeder. Be wary of inflated “rare color” pricing without proof of health testing and temperament focus.

  • Health testing: Hips, elbows, eyes, PRA; share certificates openly.
  • Temperament: Meet parents if possible; ask about socialization and noise exposure.
  • Transparency: Contracts, health guarantees, and lifetime breeder support are green flags.
  • No guarantees on exact shade: Pups in yellow litters vary; some darken with age.

Prefer adoption? Check breed rescues and local shelters—young adults often arrive needing consistent training and exercise, not a “fix.”

Red Labrador lying near a baby on a bed, demonstrating family-friendly temperament
Family-first: train early, supervise play, and teach calm greetings.

Is a Red Labrador a Good Family Dog?

Yes—when their needs are met. Red Labs are loyal, playful, and affectionate. They thrive in households that enjoy the outdoors and include their dog in daily life. Young Labs can be boisterous; supervise around toddlers, and teach kids dog-safe manners (no ear pulling, no hugging during meals or sleep).

Great for: Active families, runners, hikers, swimmers, obedience or agility fans. Think twice if: Your lifestyle is sedentary or you want a low-shedding, low-energy breed.

🐾 Recommended for Red Labs

Soothe separation anxiety, settle crate time, and promote better sleep:

🐶 Interactive Heartbeat Plush Toy

Mimics a real heartbeat to comfort puppies and adults alike—especially useful for energetic, people-oriented Labs.

Shop Now

FAQs: Red (Fox Red) Labrador

Is the Red Labrador a separate breed?
No. “Fox red” is a darker shade of yellow. They’re registered as Yellow Labradors with kennel clubs.
Are Red Labs rare?
Less common than pale yellow Labs but not rare. Popularity varies by region and breeder lines.
Do Red Labs have different temperaments?
Temperament is Lab-typical: friendly, eager, trainable. Many fox red Labs are field-bred, which can mean higher drive and energy.
How much exercise do they need?
Plan for 60–90 minutes daily (adults): brisk walks, retrieving, swimming, plus short training sessions.
Do Red Labs shed a lot?
Yes. They’re double-coated, so expect year-round shedding and seasonal coat blows. Weekly de-shedding helps.
What’s the Red Lab puppy price?
$800–$1,500 from responsible breeders. Avoid inflated “rare” pricing without health tests.
Are they good family dogs?
Absolutely—when exercised and trained. They’re loving, playful, and thrive with active families.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Back to blog