How Long Do Chocolate Labs Live?

Like all Labrador Retrievers, chocolate labs have an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Black is the most popular color for these dogs. Chocolate brown is second, followed by yellow labs.

Certain medical conditions are typical in Labradors. These include kneecap displacement, as well as dislocations in several joints, such as the hips, elbows and shoulders. These dogs have a tendency to put on weight if they get too little exercise or too many treats. Labs also sometimes suffer from diabetes, muscular dystrophy, and eyelash disorders, which cause the hairs to grow from abnormal spots. Certain eye problems are common, including abnormal development of the retina, cataracts and a degenerative retinal condition that can eventually cause blindness.