Sporting · Dog
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in many countries, originally from Newfoundland, Canada. They are outgoing, friendly, and highly trainable, excelling as family pets, service dogs, and sporting companions.
Available Labrador Retrievers
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Live data
Labrador Retriever adoption in Europe right now.
973 Labrador Retrievers are currently listed for adoption by 371 rescue shelters across 28 countries. Most are in France (278), Germany (240), Croatia (89).
131 of them arrived within the last 30 days, so the listings change constantly — if none of the current dogs are the right match, it is worth checking back.
About the breed
Labrador Retriever characteristics.
The Labrador Retriever is a member of the Sporting group, typically large in size. Like all dogs, individual Labrador Retriever personalities can vary — rescue dogs especially may have unique temperaments shaped by their prior experiences. Getting to know a dog before adopting is always recommended.
As a larger breed, the Labrador Retriever generally needs ample space and regular exercise. A home with a garden or access to open spaces is ideal, though many larger dogs adapt well to apartment living with sufficient daily walks.
Rescue Labrador Retriever dogs may need extra patience during the settling-in period. Many shelters provide behavioural assessments and can advise on whether a specific dog is suited to your household.
Adoption guide
What to expect when adopting a Labrador Retriever.
Adopting a Labrador Retriever from a rescue shelter gives a deserving animal a second chance at happiness. Shelters across Europe care for thousands of dogs, and every adoption makes room for another animal in need.
The adoption process
Most European shelters follow a structured adoption process: an initial application, a meet-and-greet with the animal, a home check (in some countries), and finally the adoption contract.
Health and veterinary care
Reputable shelters vaccinate, microchip, and neuter or spay animals before rehoming. Adoption fees typically cover these veterinary costs.
Settling in at home
The first few weeks are an adjustment period. A quiet space, consistent routine, and patience go a long way. Many rescue dogs blossom within weeks once they feel safe and loved.
Adopting from another country
Cross-border adoption within Europe is common. Your Labrador Retriever will need an EU pet passport, a valid rabies vaccination, and a microchip. Check our dog import guides for country-specific requirements.
Why adopt
Why adopt a Labrador Retriever?
Many people are surprised to find purebred and pedigree animals in rescue shelters. Labrador Retriever dogsend up in shelters for many reasons — changes in owner circumstances, allergies, moving abroad, or simply being found as strays. None of these reasons reflect on the animal's character.
By choosing to adopt rather than buy, you help reduce demand for commercial breeding, give an animal a loving home, and support the vital work that rescue shelters do across Europe.
Questions & answers
Adopting a Labrador Retriever: common questions.
How many Labrador Retrievers are available for adoption right now?
There are currently 973 Labrador Retrievers listed for adoption on TailHarbor, from 371 rescue shelters across Europe. 131 of them were listed within the last 30 days, so new Labrador Retrievers arrive regularly.
Which countries have Labrador Retrievers available for adoption?
Labrador Retrievers are currently listed in 28 countries. Most are with shelters in France (278), Germany (240), Croatia (89) and United Kingdom (83).
Are young or senior Labrador Retrievers available?
Yes — current listings include 49 puppies, 244 young (1–3 years), 349 adults and 145 seniors (8+ years). Senior animals often wait longest for a home and many shelters reduce fees for them.
Can I adopt a male or female Labrador Retriever?
Of the Labrador Retrievers currently listed, 584 are male and 315 female. You can filter by sex on the search page.
What does adopting a Labrador Retriever from a shelter include?
Reputable European shelters vaccinate, microchip, and neuter or spay animals before rehoming, and the adoption fee typically covers those veterinary costs. Most shelters follow a structured process: an application, a meet-and-greet, sometimes a home check, and an adoption contract.
Can I adopt a Labrador Retriever from another country?
Yes — cross-border adoption within Europe is common. The animal needs an EU pet passport, a valid rabies vaccination, and a microchip; many shelters arrange transport or work with established transport partners.
Find your match
976 Labrador Retriever are waiting for a home right now.
Find Labrador Retriever for adoption →