We connect people who want to adopt or rescue a Labrador Retriever with people who need to find their Labrador a new home in the New York area.

Your Labrador Will Take a Bite Out of the Big Apple in New York City

The Labrador Retriever has a fun-loving, high-spirited attitude that garners praise the world over, making them one of the most adopted dogs in America. It’s no wonder you’ll find plenty of Labs in New York. The Labrador’s friendly demeanor and trainability make them perfect for families with small children. Adaptable and eager, your Labrador will lap up the sophisticated life in the Big Apple.

Originally, our country’s favorite dog worked as a fisherman’s helper in the cold waters of the North Atlantic off of Newfoundland. Known then as the St. John’s Water Dog, these Labrador forefathers hauled nets, fetched rope, and retrieved fish, helped by their thick, waterproof coats. The fishermen often took them home to their families following work. This led to the athletic ability, high energy, and lovable nature we see today.

Famous for appearances in popular culture, the Labrador retriever fits right in at New York City’s meeting point of glamour and blue collar. Although your Lab will make their home comfortably in a New York apartment, their rambunctious, energetic nature means daily playtime and walks are a necessity. Luckily, New York offers a lot for you and your Labrador to do.

First, if you haven’t been, take a stroll with your Labrador through Central Park in Manhattan. Dogs are allowed off leash in Central Park from 6:00am - 9:00am, and 9:00pm - 1:00am. The park offers 2.5 square miles of trails, streams and walkways for your Labrador to use up some of their never-ending energy.

If you’d like to check out a smaller but more inclusive dog park with longer hours, check out Tompkins Square Park, where your Labrador can get back in touch with their roots and swim and play along the beach with other dogs. The park provides tennis balls, along with three “doggy pools” for your Lab to cool off in during summertime. Tompkins Square also features live music on occasion.

After a lot of exertion and play, your Labrador will certainly be looking forward to dinnertime. You can find plenty of dog-friendly street-side restaurants that will serve you and your pup. For example, give the Barking Dog Luncheonette in the Upper East Side a shot, where you can find modern New York flavor for both you and your Labrador. There is always plenty to do in a big city like New York, and it’s no different for your Labrador!