
Labrador dogs are often considered a breed of dog with a low attack risk, but the statistics tell a different story. According to the article, a study found that Labradors were responsible for 13% of fatal dog attacks in the United States between 2005 and 2017.
Labradors are often used as therapy dogs and service dogs, which may contribute to their friendly and outgoing reputation. However, this also means they can be more prone to attacks when they're not properly trained or socialized.
In the United States, Labrador Retrievers are the third most common breed involved in fatal dog attacks, accounting for 13% of such incidents between 2005 and 2017.
Labrador Dog Attack Statistics
Labrador Retrievers are often perceived as friendly, but they have been involved in a significant number of biting incidents. In a 2007-2008 Colorado survey, they were found to be the breed responsible for the highest number of dog bites in that period.
Despite their friendly reputation, Labrador Retrievers can be prone to biting, especially if they have a larger head and weight, typically in the 66-100 pound range. This is a common trend among larger breeds.
Labrador Retrievers, along with Golden Retrievers, often show lower representation in bite statistics, but aggressive variants within these breeds do occur. It's essential to evaluate dog behaviors on an individual basis, considering the specific temperament and context, rather than making assumptions based solely on breed.
Retriever Bite Incidence
Labrador Retriever bites in the US have been on the rise, with a significant increase in recorded dog bite incidents in 2023 alone.
The CDC reported a notable percentage of dog bites involving Labradors, challenging their reputation as a less aggressive breed.
Historically, Labradors have been viewed as family-friendly, but their prominence in bite case data cannot be dismissed.
Labrador dog bites are often associated with dog fights, which can involve any breed of dog.
According to dog attack statistics, Labradors are still perceived as a breed less likely to bite compared to other breeds.
Despite the rise in bites from Labradors, dog bite-related fatalities involving this breed remain relatively low compared to other breeds.
Statistics Overview

Labrador Retrievers are often perceived as friendly, but they've been involved in a significant number of biting incidents. In a 2007-2008 Colorado survey, they were found to be the breed responsible for the highest number of dog bites in that period.
They constituted 13.72% of bite attacks nationwide, ranking them second in such incidents. This is a notable statistic, especially considering that larger dogs are more frequently involved in human and other dog attacks.
Larger breeds like Labrador and Golden Retrievers often show lower representation in bite statistics, but aggressive variants within these breeds do occur. This highlights the importance of evaluating dog behaviors on an individual basis, considering the specific temperament and context.
The likelihood of a dog bite is not solely determined by breed, but also by factors such as the dog's upbringing, training, and the behavior of the dog owner. Poor training or negligent behavior of the owner can provoke a typically docile dog like a Labrador to bite.
Causes and Prevention
Labrador dog attacks can be prevented by understanding the common causes. A history of aggression or biting is a major contributor, as seen in the case of a Labrador that bit a child due to a previous incident of resource guarding.
Proper socialization from an early age is crucial in preventing aggression. In an article section, it's mentioned that Labradors that are not socialized properly are more likely to become aggressive.
Training and exercise are also key in preventing dog attacks. A well-exercised and well-trained Labrador is less likely to become aggressive, as seen in the case of a Labrador that was involved in a dog attack due to a lack of exercise and training.
Behavioral Analysis
Labradors are not inherently aggressive dog breeds, but poor socialization can lead to a dog bite attack.
The number of dog bites in the United States is staggering, with 4.5 million incidents occurring annually.
Many instances of dog bites in the US create a significant societal issue, with numerous individuals becoming dog bite victims each year.

Behavioral analysis of Labradors reveals that factors like inadequate training or mishandling may also contribute to dog bite attacks.
In unincorporated Harris County, a dog bite case involving a Labrador is a reminder that even friendly breeds can present a threat on occasion.
Labradors, like any other breed, can be part of the problem if not properly handled and trained.
Owner's Saving Efforts
The owner's saving efforts are a crucial aspect of preventing dog attacks. Song, the owner of the labrador retriever Hobbit, tried to cover her dog while attempting to use her hands to pry the Rottweilers away.
Her efforts were intense, with her screaming in anger as she watched the Rottweilers drag Hobbit towards the road. The part that really got to her was seeing the Rottweilers hanging onto Hobbit, and she thought she was going to lose her.
Song managed to pull Hobbit closer and stand up, before a neighbour ushered them to safety, leaving the gate open and pushing Hobbit inside. The dogs were still coming for them, and the neighbour tried to fend them off.

This highlights the importance of neighbours being aware of potential dog attacks and taking action to prevent them. Song's neighbour intervened just in time to save Hobbit.
The owner of the Rottweilers, Marissa Leow, claimed that the magnetic lock at their house's front gate was corroded by rain, and the dogs had burst through the gate while she was unloading groceries.
Real-Life Incidents
Labradors have been involved in a significant number of dog bites in the United States, challenging their reputation as a family-friendly breed.
According to the CDC, Labradors accounted for a noticeable percentage of dog bite cases in 2023.
Labradors are not the only breed involved in dog bites, but their prominence in the data cannot be dismissed.
A disturbing incident occurred at a daycare center in Apple Valley, California, where an 8-year-old boy was bitten by a Labrador retriever named Duke.
The attack was unprovoked, and the dog's owner had previously thought Duke was good with kids.
8-Year-Old Attacked by Dog

Connor Aranda, an 8-year-old boy, was viciously attacked by a Labrador retriever named Duke at his daycare center in Apple Valley, California.
The attack occurred in the front room where several other kids were present, and Connor's 6-year-old sister witnessed the whole incident.
Connor was bitten in the face, arm, and chest, and his family has set up a GoFundMe page to cover medical expenses.
Duke was described as a "gentle" dog, but the attack suggests that even well-behaved dogs can become aggressive in certain situations.
Connor's mom thought Duke was good with kids because the dog had been around four kids of its own owner, but this turned out to be a false assumption.
The owner of the daycare center, or at least the private home being used as one, failed to give the presence of the dog a second thought, despite the dog's sudden and unprovoked attack on Connor.
In general, any dog has the capacity to be aggressive if they're put in a situation where they're stressed out, as explained by Lang.
Black Lab Owner Attacked by Dogs
A black lab owner in North Carolina was seriously injured and his 2-year-old dog was killed after being attacked by two other dogs while out for a walk.
The attack occurred in the Worthington neighborhood of Raleigh, North Carolina, on Thursday afternoon, when Dave Bennett and his black Labrador retriever Ruger were taking a walk along Elbridge Drive.
Dave Bennett suffered serious injuries, including arms full of bites, tears, and lacerations, and was unable to save his dog Ruger from the attack.
Olivia Bennett, Dave's wife, received a horrifying call from her husband during the attack, with him screaming for her to come home because he was bleeding.
A neighbor, Drake Gaines, witnessed the attack from his porch and tried to help Dave and Ruger, but was also injured in the process.
It's a sobering reminder to always be aware of your surroundings and to take necessary precautions when walking your dog, such as carrying a deterrent like pepper spray or a stick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Labradors bite force?
A Labrador Retriever's bite force is approximately 230 PSI. This moderate bite force makes them a great breed for families and first-time dog owners.
Can Labradors defend themselves?
Labradors have a protective instinct and will defend their family if threatened, but their effectiveness in physical defense may vary. They are loyal companions that will alert their owners to potential intruders with a loud bark.
Sources
- https://lordandkobrin.com/labrador-retriever-bite-statistics/
- https://www.newsweek.com/black-lab-killed-owner-injured-after-being-attacked-dogs-during-walk-1853101
- https://www.dogexpert.com/labrador-retriever-viciously-attacks-eight-year-old-girl-face-florida/
- https://www.insideedition.com/8-year-old-california-boy-recovering-after-vicious-attack-by-black-lab-at-his-daycare-77267
- https://sg.news.yahoo.com/labrador-retriever-multiple-bites-torn-ear-attack-rottweilers-sennett-road-055409403.html
Featured Images: pexels.com