How much does a Labrador Retriever puppy cost?

Labrador Retriever puppies sit between $1500 and $4000 because responsible breeding isn’t cheap, and demand isn’t going anywhere—ranked #1 for years, people want Labs, plain and simple. But good breeders aren’t just opening a whelping box and cashing checks. They’re running health tests: hips and elbows scored by OFA or PennHIP, eyes checked annually by a veterinary ophthalmologist, genetic panels for PRA and exercise-induced collapse. Each test costs hundreds, and if a dog doesn’t pass, it doesn’t breed—so years of investment can go down the drain. That’s not counting stud fees, quality food, whelping supplies, vet checks for the dam and litter, and the time involved in raising puppies with proper socialization. When you see a Lab under $1200, especially from an online ad or pet store, it’s a red flag. That dog likely comes from a puppy mill or breeder skipping health testing, which means you could be on the hook for $5,000 in hip surgery or managing avoidable genetic conditions. The upfront cost of a well-bred Lab isn’t just paying for a puppy. It’s paying for peace of mind, healthier vet bills down the road, and a dog that’s more likely to thrive as a companion, not a medical project.