Planning to bring home a Labrador Retriever? Or maybe your furball is already sprinting through your hallway with a stolen sock in his mouth. Either way, caring for a Lab isn’t just about love—it’s about staying organized. This isn’t just a to-do list. It’s a cheat sheet for raising a well-balanced, happy, and healthy Labrador.
I created this Labrador care checklist from my own experiences with Max, my lovable chaos machine. Trust me, if I had this when he was a puppy, I would’ve saved myself a few chewed shoes and a lot of panic-Googling.
So, let’s walk through what your Lab really needs; step by step, day by day.
Daily Labrador Checklist
✔️ Morning Walk or Play (30–45 minutes)
Start the day with some energy release. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a round of fetch, or a puzzle feeder session, Labs thrive when their routines include active movement.
✔️ Measured Feeding (Twice a Day)
Stick to set portions to help prevent overeating. Labs are food lovers through and through, so I always use a measuring cup to stay consistent.
✔️ Fresh Water Refill
Although it may seem simple, it’s often overlooked. Refresh the water bowl at least twice daily to keep things clean and safe.
✔️ Short Training Session (5–10 minutes)
Take a few minutes to reinforce basic commands or introduce a new one. Labs absolutely love mental stimulation.
✔️ Mental Stimulation (20 minutes)
This could be a treat puzzle, a sturdy chew toy, or a game of hide-and-seek. Max is obsessed with sniff-and-search games using carrot sticks.
✔️ Evening Walk or Fetch Time (30–60 minutes)
A well-exercised Lab is a well-behaved Lab. Evening activity helps burn off that leftover zoomie energy.
✔️ Belly Rubs & Couch Cuddles
Okay, technically this isn’t essential. But honestly? It totally is.
Weekly Labrador Checklist
✔️ Grooming and Brushing (2–3x/week)
Brushing reduces shedding and keeps their double coat healthy. I alternate between a slicker brush and a deshedding tool.
✔️ Ear Cleaning
Because Labs are prone to ear infections, I clean Max’s ears once a week using a vet-approved cleaner.
✔️ Tooth Brushing (2–3x/week)
Oral health is often forgotten until it becomes a problem. Max surprisingly enjoys his poultry-flavored toothpaste.
✔️ Check Nails
If you hear clicking on hard floors, it’s trimming time. I include this as part of our Sunday grooming ritual.
Monthly Labrador Checklist
✔️ Flea and Tick Prevention
Whether you prefer a topical treatment or a chewable, consistency is key. I keep a calendar reminder so I never forget.
✔️ Heartworm Medication
Just one chewable each month keeps your Lab protected. It’s quick, easy, and essential.
✔️ Full-Body Check
During cuddle time, I gently feel for any unusual lumps, bumps, or hot spots. I call it Max’s “spa massage.”
Yearly Labrador Checklist
✔️ Vet Visit (Wellness Checkup)
Even if everything seems fine, an annual exam helps catch potential issues like hip dysplasia, obesity, or skin allergies.
✔️ Vaccine Boosters & Titer Testing
Keep vaccinations up to date, including rabies, distemper, and leptospirosis.
✔️ Bloodwork and Senior Screening (Age 7+)
Once Max turned seven, we added annual blood work to monitor organ function and catch age-related changes early.
✔️ Professional Dental Cleaning (as needed)
Depending on your dog’s dental health, your vet might recommend cleanings every 1–2 years.
Bonus: Puppy Essentials Checklist
Starting fresh with a Lab puppy? Here’s what helped me the most:
- Crate with divider
- Chew-proof bed and blanket
- Non-slip food and water bowls
- Leash, collar, and harness
- ID tags and microchip
- Toys: chew, squeaky, and puzzle varieties
- Puppy pads or grass mats for early potty training
- Training treats (lots!)
- Grooming tools: brush, ear cleaner, toothbrush
- Pet insurance (seriously worth it)
Recommended Products for Labrador Parents
Tried, Tested, and Loved by Me and Max
You know that feeling when a product actually makes life easier? I’ve tested plenty—some were duds, and a few have truly become part of our daily rhythm. These are the ones Max and I swear by.
Whether you’re battling shedding fur, working on crate training, or just trying to keep your home clean, these tools have saved my sanity more than once. Bonus: they’re all Labrador-approved.
Best for Grooming: Keep the Shedding Under Control
AmazonBasics De-Shedding Tool
When spring hits, Max basically turns into a fluff machine. This tool cuts through loose undercoat fur like magic without hurting his skin. It’s my go-to brush during peak shedding months.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Gentle on skin, tough on fur
✔️ Budget-friendly and effective
Shop on Amazon →
2-in-1 Pet Grooming Brush
This one combines a slicker brush and an undercoat rake, which makes our weekend grooming sessions so much faster. Plus, it works great after muddy park trips.
Why It’s Handy:
✔️ Dual function = fewer tools
✔️ Great for medium to thick Lab coats
Shop the Combo Brush →
Best for Crate Training: Comfort Meets Convenience
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate
I was hesitant about crate training at first. But Max actually loves his crate—it’s become his safe space. This crate has a divider that made it easy to adjust as he grew from pup to big boy.
Why It’s Worth It:
✔️ Sturdy, easy to clean
✔️ Grows with your dog
Get the Crate on Desertcart →
Best for Cleaning: Say Goodbye to Pet Hair
Dyson Big Ball Corded Vacuum
I’ll be honest, I didn’t know vacuums could be life-changing until this one. It picks up Max’s hair from rugs, hardwood, and even under the couch. Total game-changer if your Lab sheds like mine.
Why Pet Owners Rave About It:
✔️ Powerful suction for stubborn hair
✔️ Designed with pet households in mind
Buy the Dyson Pet Vacuum →
Final Woof
Still deciding if a Labrador is the right fit for you? I’ve covered the honest ups and downs in this guide on the pros and cons of owning a Labrador Retriever. It’s packed with real-life insights and stories from my own Lab journey.
Having a Labrador isn’t just about love and loyalty, it’s about staying consistent and meeting their needs every single day. With this checklist, you’re not just winging it. You’re laying the foundation for a joyful, stress-free life with your Lab.
When I stick to this routine, Max is calmer, happier, and less destructive. And I sleep better knowing I’m giving him everything he needs not just belly rubs and kibble, but structure, health, and quality time.
Got your own tips for Lab care? Drop them in the comments or share this checklist with a fellow Lab parent. The more we help each other, the better life gets for us and our pups.
