Labrador Retrievers are consistently the most popular dog breed in Canada, and Calgary shelters regularly have Labs and Lab mixes looking for homes. Known for their friendly, outgoing temperament and love of people, Labs are ideal family dogs that get along with children, other pets, and strangers alike. Their eagerness to please makes them highly trainable, which is why they are the breed of choice for guide dogs, therapy dogs, and detection work.
Labs end up in rescue for various reasons — often because families underestimate how much energy a young Lab has, or because life circumstances change. A healthy Labrador needs significant daily exercise, including swimming, fetching, and long walks. Calgary is an excellent city for Lab owners, with the Bow River pathways, Glenmore Reservoir, and dozens of off-leash parks providing ample opportunities for exercise and water play.
All Labrador Retrievers listed below are from 13+ Calgary-area rescues and updated every 2 hours. Labs are among the fastest-adopted breeds, so if you see one you like, apply quickly.
Showing 16 dogs
Apple
2 years • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Bella
5 years 4 months • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Chaplin
10 months • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Cleatus
7 years 2 months • Labrador Mix
Furball Force
Dog Test 1
2 • Lab Mix
Test Test
Dracula
1 year • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Guiness
10 months • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
HENRY
2 years • Labrador Retriever Mixed
AARCS
Karma
10 months • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Kiah
Unknown • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Lulu
1 year 5 months • Boxador (Boxer/Lab mix)
BARCS Rescue
Magic
10 months • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Scout
2 years 6 months • Shepherd/Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Smokey
10 months • Lab Mix
BARCS Rescue
Truman
Unknown • Labrador Retriever Mix
BARCS Rescue
ZORO
3 years 5 months • Labrador Retriever Mixed
AARCS
Labrador Retriever Adoption FAQ
Are Labs good with kids?
Labrador Retrievers are widely regarded as one of the best breeds for families with children. They are patient, gentle, and playful. Most rescue Labs have been assessed in foster homes and their compatibility with children is noted in their profile. Always supervise initial interactions and teach children how to respectfully interact with any new dog.
How much exercise does a Lab need?
Labs are high-energy dogs that need at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. They love swimming, fetching, and running. Calgary offers many opportunities for Lab exercise, including off-leash parks with water access like Sue Higgins Park and the Bow River pathways. Without adequate exercise, Labs can become destructive and overweight.
Do Labs shed a lot?
Yes, Labrador Retrievers are heavy shedders, especially during spring and fall when they blow their undercoat. Regular brushing two to three times per week helps manage shedding. Many Calgary pet stores carry de-shedding tools designed for double-coated breeds. Labs are not a good choice for people with severe dog allergies.