English Labrador Retriever Puppies Available in Texas
Built like a tank, gentle as a lamb, loyal as they come.
If you’re looking for a loyal companion who’ll become your family’s best friend, you’ve come to the right place. At Lost Creek Kennels, we specialize in breeding AKC English Labrador Retrievers—the stockier, blockier, calmer cousins of the American Lab. These dogs aren’t just pets; they’re family members who’ll steal your heart and probably your spot on the couch. And maybe your sandwich. 😊
What Makes English Labs Different?
Let me paint you a picture. American Labs are like that friend who’s always ready to go hiking at 6 AM—high energy, athletic, built for endurance. English Labs? They’re more like the friend who’s happy to join you for a morning walk but is equally content to spend the afternoon napping on the porch. They’re bred for companionship first, with a calmer temperament and that classic “blockhead” look that melts hearts.
The differences aren’t just about energy levels, though. English Labs have:.
- Broader heads and chests
- Stockier, more muscular builds
- Shorter legs and thicker tails (that “otter tail” everyone loves)
- A more laid-back, gentle disposition
Don’t get me wrong—they’ll still play fetch until your arm falls off if you let them. But they’re generally easier to settle down and more naturally suited to family life, especially if you have young children.
Why Families Love English Labradors
I’ve been breeding dogs for years, and I can tell you this: English Labs are incredibly forgiving dogs. Got toddlers who are still learning “gentle hands”? An English Lab will patiently tolerate more than most breeds. They’re naturally gentle, patient, and protective without being aggressive. They’re good around children (click here to see Whinnie, the gorgeous black Lab, and her big sister!), other pets and can be trained to do virtually anything.
These dogs are incredibly intelligent and eager to please, which makes training straightforward. They want to make you happy, so they’re motivated learners. Whether you’re teaching basic obedience or more advanced commands, English Labs catch on quickly.
Our English Lab Breeding Program
At Lost Creek Kennels, we don’t just breed Labs – we carefully match genetics to produce healthy, well-tempered puppies with excellent conformation. Our parent dogs are health tested, and we track things like hip and elbow scores, eye certifications, and genetic markers to ensure we’re breeding the healthiest puppies possible.
English Labs come in three main colors: yellow (ranging from almost white to deep fox red), chocolate, and black. Here’s a little secret: color doesn’t affect temperament one bit as long as you’re working with quality Labs. I know there are myths out there about chocolate Labs being hyper or yellow Labs being calmer, but in my experience, that’s all it is—myths. Individual personality comes from genetics, early socialization, and training, not coat color.
Our pups are born on a North Texas farm and are exposed to all kinds of sights, sounds and smells from an early age. We believe this leads to a well socialized pup that will be an excellent family member. We currently have some exciting litters planned for 2026. We’re planning more of the handsome chocolates and the amazing yellow/fox reds. Click here to see a few of our past pups.
What Life with an English Lab Looks Like
Let’s be real about what you’re signing up for. English Labs are moderate-energy dogs, but they’re still Labs. They need daily exercise—a good walk, some playtime, maybe a swim if you’re near water (they LOVE water). Without adequate exercise, any dog can become destructive or develop behavioral issues. Labs are no different
They’re also social dogs who don’t do well being left alone for long periods. If your family is gone 10 hours a day with no one home, an English Lab might not be the right fit. These dogs thrive on companionship and your pup will want to be involved in your family activities.
Food motivation is real with Labs. They’ll eat until they make themselves sick if you let them, so portion control is important. This trait makes them easy to train with treats, but it also means you need to be vigilant about their weight and what they have access to.
Grooming and Care
English Labs are relatively low-maintenance compared to some breeds, but “low-maintenance” doesn’t mean “no maintenance.” That double coat sheds—especially during spring and fall when they “blow their coat.” Regular brushing (a few times a week) helps manage the shedding and keeps their coat healthy. Click here for some of our puppy supply recommendations.
Their ears need regular checking and cleaning since floppy ears can trap moisture and lead to infections. Nails should be trimmed regularly, and dental care is important for overall health.
The good news? English Labs don’t require professional grooming. A bath every month or two (or when they’ve rolled in something questionable) is usually sufficient.
Health and Lifespan
English Labs typically live 10-12 years, though I’ve known some to make it to 14 or 15 with good care. The key to longevity is maintaining a healthy weight, providing regular exercise, and staying on top of veterinary care.
Common health concerns in the breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, which is why health testing of parent dogs is so important. It’s also very important to feed quality puppy and dog food and to follow feeding guidelines, especially the first couple years of life.
Training Your English Lab Puppy
Start early—that’s my biggest piece of advice. English Labs are easier to train than many breeds, but they’re still 70-pound dogs who can accidentally knock over a small child if they’re not taught manners.
Focus on:
- Basic obedience: Sit, stay, come, down
- Leash manners: Labs are strong, and you don’t want them dragging you down the street
- Impulse control: Teaching them to wait for food, not bolt out doors, etc.
- Socialization: Expose them to different people, places, and situations while they’re young
The good news is that English Labs genuinely want to please you, which makes training more collaborative than combative. Use positive reinforcement, be consistent, and you’ll have a well-mannered companion.
Is an English Lab Right for Your Family?
English Labs are fantastic family dogs, but they’re not right for everyone. They’re ideal if:
You want a gentle, patient dog who’s great with kids
You have time for daily exercise and interaction
You don’t mind dog hair and the occasional muddy paw print
You’re looking for a loyal companion who’ll be happiest wherever you are
They might not be the best fit if:
You want a super low-energy lap dog (though they’ll try to be one)
You’re gone most of the day with no one home
Yuo really don’t want a dog that sheds
You want a dog who’s naturally independent
Ready to Welcome an English Lab into Your Family?
If you’re nodding along thinking “yes, this sounds like exactly what we want,” I’d love to talk with you about our upcoming litters. We’re selective about our puppy placements because we want to ensure the right match between dog and family.
Contact us to learn more about available puppies, our application process, and upcoming litters. Let’s find you the perfect furry family member.
Serving Areas Across Texas and Beyond!
We’re proud to serve families throughout Texas and beyond, including:
- Dallas, TX
- Austin, TX
- Houston, TX
- San Antonio, TX
- Fort Worth, TX
…plus, we have pups all over the country! From Alaska to Florida, New York to California. Even in Mexico!