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Labrador pet insurance guide

Learn about the benefits of insuring your Labradors. They’re friendly, food-driven dogs with bags of energy - but that healthy appetite can sometimes lead to trouble.

Labrador insurance is included with Tesco Pet Insurance.

  • Cover any age of Labrador - from 8 weeks old to very old.

    Cover any age of Labrador - from 8 weeks old to very old.

  • Lifetime Insurance option - choose cover for vet fees up to £11,000 to help with ongoing health conditions.

    Lifetime Insurance option - choose cover for vet fees up to £11,000 to help with ongoing health conditions.

  • Save money on your policy - get a discount with your Clubcard. Plus, a multi pet discount if you insure more than one dog with us.

    Save money on your policy - get a discount with your Clubcard. Plus, a multi pet discount if you insure more than one dog with us.

Tesco Pet Insurance is arranged, administered and underwritten by Pinnacle Insurance Ltd.

A Labrador on hind legs, placing paws on a seated person's lap indoors.

Page contents

    Do you need Labrador pet insurance? Do Labradors have health problems? Top 10 Labrador pet insurance claims Common Labrador health problems and insurance considerations Does Tesco Pet Insurance include Labrador insurance?
      The benefits of Tesco Pet Insurance Labrador dog breed information What are Labradors like as pets? Summary: The Labrador Labrador FAQs

      Do you need Labrador pet insurance?

      Labradors are generally healthy dogs. But their appetite for food means they're prone to scavenging and swallowing things they shouldn't. Among the Labrador breed's top 10 claim types, foreign body claims from swallowed items have the highest average treatment cost at £1,594.68 (see our claims table below).

      Many Labradors live long, active lives, reaching 10-12 years old. And along the way, they might need treatment for anything from ear infections to joint conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia.

      If your dog does need treatment, especially long-term, vet bills can be expensive. And pet insurance can help to cover unexpected costs. It could also help to give you peace of mind, knowing your dog will be well looked after.

      You can learn more about the importance of pet insurance in our guide - Why is pet insurance important?

      Good to know: Labrador lifetime insurance can help if your dog develops an ongoing health condition, like arthritis or epilepsy.

        Get a pet insurance quote

        How much is pet insurance for a Labrador?

        The cost of Labrador pet insurance can vary, but it usually depends on things like:

        • breed-specific health risks - especially joint conditions and foreign body ingestion (see below)breed-specific health risks - especially joint conditions and foreign body ingestion (see below)
        • the average cost of vet treatment (see below)the average cost of vet treatment (see below)
        • your dog's ageyour dog's age
        • the type and level of cover you choosethe type and level of cover you choose
        • where you live in the UKwhere you live in the UK
        • your dog's health history and lifestyleyour dog's health history and lifestyle

        Good to know: Pet insurance for a Labrador puppy is often cheaper than cover for an older dog. That's because younger dogs are less likely to have an existing health condition, such as hip or elbow dysplasia.

        If you get pet insurance early, you could be making sure your dog's covered for future health conditions.

          Do Labradors have health problems?

          Labradors are a hard-working, food-driven breed. They're generally healthy, but there are some common health conditions in Labrador Retrievers to be aware of, from joint problems to obesity-related issues.

          You can support their health and wellbeing with:

          • regular vet checksregular vet checks
          • a healthy diet - Labradors are prone to weight gaina healthy diet - Labradors are prone to weight gain
          • the right level of exercise and mental stimulationthe right level of exercise and mental stimulation

          There aren't always health problems with Labradors. But, as our claims data shows, the cost can soon add up if your dog needs treatment. And that's where pet insurance can help.

            Top 10 Labrador pet insurance claims

            Below are the most common claims we receive for Labradors at Tesco Pet Insurance. This includes Labrador cross dogs. And it shows how much the average payment for treatment is.*

            Remember: without pet insurance, you'd have to pay for the total cost of treatment yourself. You would also be responsible for any cost of treatment that exceeds the level of cover chosen.

              Rank

              Condition

              Average claim payout

              1

              Lameness

              £1,002.78

              2

              Miscellaneous lump

              £688.66

              3

              Foreign body

              £1,594.68

              4

              Vomiting

              £884.55

              5

              Arthritis/DJD

              £610.36

              6

              Vomiting and diarrhoea

              £698.07

              7

              Otitis

              £238.45

              8

              Epilepsy/seizures

              £765.81

              9

              Ear infection

              £242.89

              10

              Fractured tooth

              £378.93

              *Tesco Pet Insurance claims payment data, January 2025-April 2026. Provided by Pinnacle Insurance Ltd.

              Foreign body claims are the costliest on this list, reflecting how food-driven and prone to scavenging Labradors can be. Lameness is the most frequent claim. This is often linked to joint conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia or a cruciate ligament injury. And with 2 ear-related conditions in the top 10, this is a breed that needs regular ear care too.

                Common Labrador health problems and insurance considerations

                Every dog is different, but these are some of the more common health concerns with Labradors - and what they can mean for insurance.

                • Hip and elbow dysplasia - Labradors are one of the breeds screened under the BVA Hip Dysplasia Scheme, which gives a 'hip score' based on X-ray results. Dysplasia can cause pain and mobility issues, and may need long-term treatment or surgery, so cover for ongoing conditions is worth considering.Hip and elbow dysplasia - Labradors are one of the breeds screened under the BVA Hip Dysplasia Scheme, which gives a 'hip score' based on X-ray results. Dysplasia can cause pain and mobility issues, and may need long-term treatment or surgery, so cover for ongoing conditions is worth considering.
                • Cruciate ligament injury - a common cause of lameness in Labradors, often linked to their weight and activity levels. Surgery can be costly, so insurance can help spread the cost.Cruciate ligament injury - a common cause of lameness in Labradors, often linked to their weight and activity levels. Surgery can be costly, so insurance can help spread the cost.
                • Obesity - Labradors are food-motivated and prone to weight gain. Being overweight can increase the risk of joint problems and other health conditions.Obesity - Labradors are food-motivated and prone to weight gain. Being overweight can increase the risk of joint problems and other health conditions.
                • Ear infections (otitis) - Labradors love water, and moisture trapped in their ears can lead to repeat infections. Regular vet visits for ear problems are where insurance can help spread the cost.Ear infections (otitis) - Labradors love water, and moisture trapped in their ears can lead to repeat infections. Regular vet visits for ear problems are where insurance can help spread the cost.
                • Foreign body ingestion - a Labrador's love of food can lead to scavenging and swallowing things they shouldn't. This is one of the most costly claims we see, and can sometimes need emergency surgery.Foreign body ingestion - a Labrador's love of food can lead to scavenging and swallowing things they shouldn't. This is one of the most costly claims we see, and can sometimes need emergency surgery.
                • Epilepsy - a lifelong condition that often needs ongoing medication. Lifetime insurance can help cover treatment year after year.Epilepsy - a lifelong condition that often needs ongoing medication. Lifetime insurance can help cover treatment year after year.
                • Lipomas and other growths - fatty lumps are common as Labradors age. They're not usually serious, but your vet may recommend removal – insurance can give you cover.Lipomas and other growths - fatty lumps are common as Labradors age. They're not usually serious, but your vet may recommend removal – insurance can give you cover.

                Some of these are long-term conditions. Labrador lifetime insurance can help to provide cover for repeat treatment each year.

                  Get a pet insurance quote

                  Does Tesco Pet Insurance include Labrador insurance?

                  Yes, Tesco Pet Insurance includes Labrador insurance.

                  We offer Labrador pet insurance from 8 weeks old. And you can choose from the following types of cover to meet your needs.


                  Lifetime Pet Insurance

                  Covers vet fees up to £3,000, £5,000, £7,500 or £11,000, depending on the limit you choose. Your vet fees limit will be reinstated each year, as long as you renew your policy and there’s no break in cover.

                    Lifetime Pet Insurance

                    Maximum Benefit Pet Insurance

                    Covers vet fees for new illnesses and accidental injuries up to the vet fees limit on your policy. Your vet fees limit can be either £5,000 or £7,500 per condition.

                      Maximum Benefit Pet Insurance

                      Time Limited Pet Insurance

                      Covers short-term treatment for your dog, if they get sick or have an accident.

                        Time Limited Pet Insurance

                        Monetary limits, excesses and exclusions apply. For full details of cover, see the policy booklet.

                        The benefits of Tesco Pet Insurance

                        If your Labrador develops a long-term health condition, it can mean ongoing vet bills.

                        Tesco Pet Insurance can help to protect your dog with:

                        • Accident, illness and injury cover. Get cover to help with the cost of treatment if your Labrador swallows something it shouldn't, or develops a joint condition like hip dysplasia.Accident, illness and injury cover
                          Get cover to help with the cost of treatment if your Labrador swallows something it shouldn't, or develops a joint condition like hip dysplasia.
                        • 24/7 vetfone helpline. Get advice for your Labrador by phone or video call, whenever you need it. From behavioural issues to health and medical problems.24/7 vetfone helpline
                          Get advice for your Labrador by phone or video call, whenever you need it. From behavioural issues to health and medical problems.
                        • Direct payments to your vet. We can pay claims direct to your vet, if they accept direct payments. Excesses apply.Direct payments to your vet
                          We can pay claims direct to your vet, if they accept direct payments. Excesses apply.

                        You can learn more about the benefits of pet insurance in our guide - Why should I get pet insurance?

                          Manage your money with Tesco Pet Insurance

                          These are some of the ways we can help you to manage and save money with Tesco Pet Insurance.

                          • Clubcard Prices. Save money on all Tesco Pet Insurance policies with your Clubcard.Clubcard Prices
                            Save money on all Tesco Pet Insurance policies with your Clubcard.
                          • Multi pet insurance. Get a £12 discount for each pet if you insure more than one with us. Available with all policies, for pets of all ages. T&Cs apply.Multi pet insurance
                            Get a £12 discount for each pet if you insure more than one with us. Available with all policies, for pets of all ages. T&Cs apply.
                          • Spread the cost of your cover. Pay your premium monthly by Direct Debit. It won't cost any more.Spread the cost of your cover
                            Pay your premium monthly by Direct Debit. It won't cost any more.

                          Refer a friend - and get a Tesco Gift Card

                          Refer a friend if you're a Tesco Pet Insurance customer. And you'll both get a £30 Tesco Gift Card as part of our pet insurance rewards. T&Cs apply.

                          Refer a friend

                          Labrador insurance with Clubcard Prices

                          Find cover for your Labrador with Tesco Pet Insurance. Save with your Clubcard.

                          Not a Clubcard member? It's free and it saves you money. Join now.

                            Get a pet insurance quote Tesco Pet Insurance
                              Clubcard Prices logo.

                              Labrador dog breed information

                              Labradors are a purebred gundog, originally used to retrieve game for hunters and fishermen. Today, they're one of the UK's most popular family dogs, loved for their friendly, easy-going nature.

                              They're strong, athletic dogs with a short, dense double coat, and they're known for their gentle temperament and love of water. Labradors are loyal, intelligent and eager to please. This has made them a popular choice for families and working roles – from guide dogs to therapy dogs. On average, they live 10-12 years.

                              Here's a rundown of their main characteristics.

                                Characteristic

                                Information

                                Breed type

                                Purebred gundog (retriever)

                                Group

                                Gundog group

                                Size

                                Medium to large

                                Weight

                                Around 25-36kg

                                Lifespan

                                Around 10-12 years

                                Temperament

                                Friendly, intelligent and gentle

                                Exercise needs

                                High

                                Grooming needs

                                Low to moderate

                                As a working retriever breed, Labradors have bags of energy and a strong food drive. This shapes much of their behaviour, from their love of exercise and water to their tendency to eat first and think later.

                                  What are Labradors like as pets?

                                  Labradors are known for their friendly, gentle and eager-to-please personalities.

                                  They usually enjoy spending time with people and other animals, and their working heritage means they're highly trainable. This makes them popular as family pets, as well as in roles like guide dogs, therapy dogs and search and rescue.

                                  Labradors are often:

                                  • Friendly with peopleFriendly with people
                                  • Good with childrenGood with children
                                  • Sociable with other dogsSociable with other dogs
                                  • Food-motivated and eager to pleaseFood-motivated and eager to please
                                  • Energetic and always ready to playEnergetic and always ready to play

                                  Their food-driven nature means it's worth keeping food, bins and anything chewable out of reach, as their scavenging instinct can lead to swallowed objects and costly vet visits.

                                  Labradors are sociable dogs and don't always cope well with being left alone for long periods, especially as puppies. Early training and socialisation can help them feel settled.

                                  For dog training tips, see our guide with TV dog trainer, Graeme Hall - Dog training tips from The Dogfather.

                                    How much does it cost to keep a Labrador?

                                    The cost of owning a Labrador depends on a number of things. For example, where you live and your dog's individual needs.

                                    Typical costs can include:

                                    • FoodFood
                                    • Annual vaccinationsAnnual vaccinations
                                    • Flea and worm treatmentsFlea and worm treatments
                                    • GroomingGrooming
                                    • Toys, bedding and accessoriesToys, bedding and accessories
                                    • Training classesTraining classes
                                    • Pet insurancePet insurance
                                    • Unexpected vet treatmentUnexpected vet treatment

                                    Labradors are a larger breed, so food and other costs can be higher than for smaller dogs. Unexpected vet treatment - particularly for scavenging incidents or joint problems - can be one of the biggest costs to plan for.

                                      How much exercise does a Labrador need?

                                      Labradors are working dogs with bags of energy, and usually need at least 2 hours of exercise each day.

                                      Exercise can include:

                                      • Daily walks, ideally including some off-lead time in a safe area.Daily walks, ideally including some off-lead time in a safe area.
                                      • Swimming, which many Labradors love.Swimming, which many Labradors love.
                                      • Retrieving games, like fetch.Retrieving games, like fetch.
                                      • Puzzle toys and training to keep their mind active.Puzzle toys and training to keep their mind active.
                                      • Play with other dogs.Play with other dogs.

                                      Regular exercise helps to support your dog's physical and mental wellbeing, and can help to keep their weight in check.

                                      Good to know: It's best not to over-exercise puppies while their joints are still developing, as this can increase the risk of problems like hip dysplasia later in life.

                                        Does a Labrador need regular grooming?

                                        Labradors have a short, dense double coat that's relatively low maintenance, though they shed heavily twice a year, in spring and autumn.

                                        Top grooming tips for your Labrador:

                                        • Brush regularly, more often during shedding seasons.Brush regularly, more often during shedding seasons.
                                        • Bathe only occasionally - around 3 to 4 times a year - as their coat has natural waterproofing oils.Bathe only occasionally - around 3 to 4 times a year - as their coat has natural waterproofing oils.
                                        • Trim nails once or twice a month.Trim nails once or twice a month.
                                        • Check and clean ears regularly, especially after swimming.Check and clean ears regularly, especially after swimming.
                                        • Brush teeth frequently.Brush teeth frequently.

                                        Regular grooming can help to keep your Labrador comfortable. It might also help you to spot potential health issues early - particularly ear problems and skin lumps, which are common in the breed.

                                          Summary: The Labrador

                                          Labradors are usually friendly, loyal and energetic dogs that make wonderful companions. While generally healthy, their food-driven nature and risk of joint conditions like hip dysplasia mean health costs can add up.

                                          Labrador pet insurance can help with unexpected vet bills, from a scavenging mishap to a long-term joint condition. It can also provide peace of mind if your dog gets sick or injured.

                                          To compare cover for long-term treatment, take a look at our Lifetime Pet Insurance.

                                            Help for Pet Insurance customers

                                            Find out how to manage your policy or make a claim if you have Tesco Pet Insurance.

                                            Help for Pet Insurance customers

                                            Important information

                                            Tesco Pet Insurance is arranged, administered and underwritten by Pinnacle Insurance Ltd.

                                            vetfone is provided by Vetsdirect Ltd.

                                            You'll find complete details of the cover, monetary limits, exclusions, excesses and terms in our policy documents.

                                              Learn more about Tesco Pet Insurance

                                              Labrador insurance is included with Tesco Pet Insurance. 97% of claims paid within 5 working days*.

                                                Tesco Pet Insurance

                                                *Based on Tesco Pet Insurance claims data, January-October 2025.

                                                  Labrador FAQs

                                                  Yes. Labradors are often considered one of the best family dogs.

                                                  They're usually friendly, gentle and patient, and they enjoy being part of the action. Many Labradors get on well with children, especially in busy, active households.

                                                  Remember, children should be taught how to interact with dogs safely and respectfully. As with any breed.

                                                    Yes, very much so. Labradors are known for loving water. Their webbed toes and otter-like tail help them swim strongly, and many enjoy any chance to jump into a lake, river or pool.

                                                    Always supervise water play, and rinse and dry your dog's ears afterwards to help prevent infections.

                                                      Yes, Labradors shed a fair amount, particularly during their spring and autumn moults, when they lose their undercoat.

                                                      Regular brushing can help to manage loose hair around the home, especially during these seasonal changes.

                                                        Labradors are sociable dogs and usually prefer company, especially as puppies. Some can become anxious or unsettled if left alone for long periods without training.

                                                        Building up alone time gradually from a young age can help them to feel more comfortable spending time on their own.

                                                          Yes, generally. Labradors are a friendly, sociable breed, and most enjoy the company of other dogs.

                                                          Socialising them early can help them to become confident, well-mannered adults.

                                                            The cost of insuring a Labrador puppy usually depends on things like their age, where you live and the type of cover you choose. Puppy insurance is often cheaper than cover for an older dog, as puppies are less likely to have an existing health condition. Getting a quote is the easiest way to find out the exact cost for your dog.

                                                              The best pet insurance for a Labrador is usually one with good ongoing cover, like Lifetime Pet Insurance, given their risk of long-term conditions such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. It's worth comparing the type and level of cover carefully to find the right fit for your dog and your budget.

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