Chocolate Labrador Dog: Lab Names, Puppies, Price & Problems

The Chocolate Lab is a medium-to-large sporting breed and is considered the rarest of the Labrador Retriever coat colors according to the breed standard. While most Labradors are recognized for their creamy yellow or dark black coats, the Chocolate Labrador is a fan favorite and is loved for their friendly, happy-go-lucky personality. Here’s everything you need to know about this undeniably sweet breed, from puppies and names to pricing and potential challenges.

What is a Chocolate Labrador?

A Chocolate Labrador is a Labrador Retriever with a beautiful dark brown coat resembling chocolate. Their short, dense coats can range in color from a light brown hue to a deep, dark cocoa brown. These medium-to-large-sized dogs weigh 55 to 80 pounds, with males being larger than females, and stand 21 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder.

These family-friendly dogs make great companions for families with children and active individuals. They are generally friendly, sociable, and highly trainable, and often do well as service or therapy dogs as well as companions. Chocolate Labs thrive on companionship and do best when they can receive plenty of attention and mental stimulation.

What should I know before buying a Chocolate Lab puppy?

Before buying a Chocolate Lab puppy, it’s crucial to research the breed’s specific needs, potential health concerns, and the effort required to raise a puppy into a well-rounded adult dog. It’s also important to know this is breed is a good fit for your lifestyle. For example, are you looking for an energetic breed who can match your active lifestyle? Or maybe you’re looking for a snoozy couch potato pup to match your laidback vibes. Not all breeds will be the right fit for you, so it’s important to make sure you know what you’re getting into.

Additionally, consider the costs of owning a dog, including veterinary care, food, training, and pet insurance. Finding a reputable breeder is crucial, as many backyard breeders exploit the popularity of breeds like Chocolate Labs. You could end up with a puppy with health problems if you don’t do your research. Always explore adoption options first, as many Chocolate Labs, including puppies, are available through rescue organizations.

What are Chocolate Lab puppies like?

If you’re new to pet parenting, there are a few key things to know about raising a Chocolate Lab — or any puppy, for that matter! They shouldn’t be left alone more than a few hours at a time. Crate training at this stage is a great way to help them feel confident when left alone and can help keep them from getting into anything when you’re away. To keep them happy and interested, provide plenty of training games, toys, and treats. While they’re full of energy, they’re also a bit clumsy, so it’s essential to puppy-proof your home to prevent accidents or injuries.

Chocolate Lab puppies love to explore the world, using their mouths to investigate everything. As a retrieving beed, they’re particularly drawn to picking things up and chewing, even beyond the puppy phase. Teaching commands like “Drop it” and encouraging a gentle, soft mouth during play are important steps in their training. Providing appropriate chew toys and redirecting unwanted chewing behavior will also help your pup develop good habits.

How much does a Chocolate Lab cost?

Chocolate Lab puppies from a reputable breeder typically cost between $2,000 and $6,000, depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, location, the puppy’s pedigree, and coat color. When visiting breeders, it’s important to watch for red flags. A responsible breeder will always allow you to meet the puppy’s parents and provide health clearances to confirm the dogs have been screened for genetic issues. Both the parents and the puppies should appear comfortable and well-socialized, which indicates proper care and early socialization.

Be cautious of breeders who try to send puppies home too early. Puppies should remain with their mother and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old.

How long does a Chocolate Lab live?

The average lifespan of a Chocolate Labrador is 10 to 11 years, which is slightly shorter than that of other Labrador varieties, such as Black or Yellow Labs. According to a 2018 study by the Royal Veterinary College’s RVC Vet Compass program, Chocolate Labs have an average lifespan of 10.7 years, compared to the 12.1-year average for other Labradors. While this may not be welcome news for everyone, understanding the factors contributing to this difference can help owners take steps to support their Chocolate Lab’s health.

What are good Chocolate Lab names?

There are no shortage of cute names perfect for Chocolate Labradors. Here are some of our favorites plus a few of the most popular puppy names:

Male Chocolate Lab names

• Archie
• Theodore
• Charlie
• Rufus
• Henry
• Louie
• Milo
• Arthur
• Bear
• Chester

Female Chocolate Lab names

• Olive
• Dolly
• Juniper
• Maple
• Ruby
• Daisy
• Martha
• Rosie
• Lola
• Greta

Does the breed have potential health problems?

While Labrador Retrievers are generally a healthy breed, there are a few common health concerns potential owners should be aware of. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), obesity, ear infections, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus).

Labrador Retrievers have a higher cancer risk compared to many other breeds and can be susceptible to certain forms of the disease. Studies examining cancer risks in various breeds have shown that cancer accounts for 31.2%, 34%, and 21% of Labrador-related deaths across different research findings. Understanding these risks and staying informed about potential health concerns can help owners take proactive steps to support their dog’s health and well-being.

Chocolate Labrador and Lab puppy pictures