The Best Bed, Collar and Lead for a Labrador
Share
The best bed for a Labrador is a large, firmly filled bed that your dog can stretch out on fully, with a low entry, a non-slip base and a cover you can wash. Most adult Labradors weigh 25 to 35kg, so size matters more than anything else. Our own beds go up to XL, sized for dogs of roughly 12 to 20kg, which means they are not big enough for most adult Labradors. This guide covers what to look for in a large bed, and where our collars, leads and raincoat do fit.
How big is a Labrador?
The PDSA gives an average adult weight of 25 to 35kg and an average height of 55 to 57cm. The Kennel Club breed standard sets an ideal height at the withers of 56 to 57cm for dogs and 55 to 56cm for bitches. The coat is short and dense, with a weather-resistant undercoat, and The Kennel Club notes that the breed sheds and benefits from a weekly groom. It also suggests more than two hours of exercise a day.
Two health points from the PDSA are relevant to kit choices. Labradors can be affected by hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis, and the breed is prone to obesity. Neither is something a bed or collar can fix, but both are reasons to think about support, easy access and comfort, and to talk to your vet about your own dog's joints and weight.
Choosing a bed for a Labrador
Get the size right
A dog that sleeps stretched out on its side needs more length than one that curls up, so a bed sized by weight alone can end up too short. To check:
- Measure your dog lying fully stretched out, from nose to the base of the tail.
- Add some extra room so the head and paws are not hanging over the edge.
- Check the product's dimensions as well as its weight rating, and make sure it is designed for a dog of your Labrador's adult weight.
If you are buying for a puppy, remember that the bed will need to suit a 25 to 35kg adult before long. Our dog bed size guide goes through measuring in more detail.
What to look for
- A filling that stays supportive. A heavy dog can flatten soft fibre filling quickly. A deep, firm base keeps hips and elbows off the floor. If your dog has a diagnosed joint condition, ask your vet what kind of bed they would suggest.
- A low entry. A bed your dog can walk onto, rather than climb into, is easier to get in and out of, especially as your Labrador gets older.
- A non-slip base, so the bed stays put when a large dog flops down onto it.
- A removable, washable cover. A shedding coat and muddy walks mean the cover will need washing often, so check the washing temperature and that the cover will fit in your machine.
- Bolsters if your dog likes them. Some dogs love a raised edge to lean on; others prefer a flat mattress they can sprawl across. Watch how yours sleeps now.
For more on shape, fabric and filling, see how to choose a luxury dog bed.
The best collar for a Labrador
Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, a dog in a public place must wear a collar with the owner's name and address on it, or on a plate or badge attached to it. A phone number is not required by law, but it is strongly advisable. For a large dog, look for a wider band that spreads pressure, solid hardware, and engraving on the buckle or clasp so there is no tag to catch.
Two of our collars come in sizes for larger necks. Measure around the neck where the collar sits and add two fingers' width, then compare:
| Collar | Size | Neck range | Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Marylebone Walking Set | L | 38 to 58cm | 2.5cm |
| The Kensington Collar | L | 49 to 55cm | 2.5cm |
| The Kensington Collar | XL | 56 to 62cm | 2.5cm |
The Marylebone Walking Set pairs a vegan leather collar and engraved quick-release buckle with a matching lead and a zip poop bag holder, and its size guide lists L for Labradors. The Kensington Collar has a soft plush band and a gold quick-release clasp engraved with your dog's name and your number. If your dog is between sizes, choose the larger.
Choosing a lead
A large dog needs a lead with a secure clasp and a handle that is comfortable to hold for a long walk. The Signature Lead has a metal clasp and a comfortable handle, in 120cm or 170cm. The shorter length suits pavements, stations and busy parks, where you want your dog close. The longer length gives more freedom on open ground. If you take the train, remember that dogs must be on a lead throughout the station and on board.
Does a Labrador need a coat?
With a weather-resistant undercoat, many Labradors may not need one. A raincoat can still be useful on long, wet walks, or simply to keep the worst of the rain and mud off before you get home. The Regent Raincoat is a waterproof, fleece-lined soft-shell with reflective detailing. Its size guide lists 2XL (56cm neck, 68cm chest, 49cm back length) for Labradors and Golden Retrievers, and 3XL (72cm neck, 94cm chest, 60cm back length) for larger breeds. Measure your own dog first, as breed suggestions are a guide only.
Frequently asked questions
What size bed does a Labrador need?
Measure your Labrador lying stretched out from nose to the base of the tail and add some extra room. Most adults weigh 25 to 35kg, so choose a bed designed for a large dog of that weight.
Are Paws & Pampered beds big enough for a Labrador?
Not for most adults. Our largest bed size, XL, is designed for dogs of roughly 12 to 20kg, while adult Labradors typically weigh 25 to 35kg.
What size collar does a Labrador need?
Measure around the neck where the collar sits and add two fingers' width. Then compare with each collar's size guide, and if your dog is between sizes, choose the larger.
Does a Labrador need a raincoat?
Not always, as Labradors have a weather-resistant undercoat. A raincoat can help on long, wet walks or to keep mud down. Measure neck, chest and back length before choosing a size.