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The Labrador Retriever is considered one of the most popular family dogs of all: playful, loyal, and constantly on the move. It is precisely this need for exercise and their appetite that make the Labrador's diet more demanding than it seems at first glance. I looked into why Labradors are so prone to obesity, and I noticed how often a well-intentioned extra portion or a few too many treats can lead to real health problems over the months, from joint problems to diabetes. Because of their high need for exercise, a Labrador has a high energy requirement, but at the same time has an appetite that is hardly self-regulated. Dosing food by feel often does not do justice to these peculiarities. In this guide, I will show you how much and how often you should feed your Labrador, which type of food suits them best, and how you can prevent typical diseases caused by obesity. how much and how often you should feed your Labrador which type of food (dry food, wet food, or fresh food) suits them best which foods are taboo for Labradors how you can prevent obesity and typical diseases caused by it why freshly cooked food like HelloBello can be a good solution for Labradors Jump to section Why is the Labrador nutritionally challenging? Which ingredients belong in the Labrador's diet? These foods are taboo for Labradors How can I recognize a good Labrador diet? Dry food, wet food, or freshly cooked dog food: What suits best? HelloBello Fresh Food: The Ideal Labrador Diet Frequently Asked Questions about Labrador Nutrition (FAQ) Conclusion: Labrador Nutrition That Suits a Bundle of Energy Order freshly cooked food for your Labrador now and save! Why is the Labrador nutritionally challenging? The Labrador was originally bred for hunting and is therefore almost always on the move. It shows a great willingness to work and a strong hunting drive, and is considered particularly playful, friendly, and loyal. It is precisely these qualities that make it a popular family dog that also enjoys playing with children. This activity comes at a price: The Labrador needs plenty of exercise and daily, as varied as possible activity. A large garden alone does not replace extended walks, games, or targeted training. Accordingly, its energy requirements are also high, and this is precisely where feeding becomes a challenge. Labradors have an almost insatiable appetite that is hardly self-regulated. They often beg for food and would eat significantly more than is good for them if left to their own devices. Bello's Fact: A genetic change in the so-called POMC gene has been detected in a portion of the Labrador population, which is associated with increased appetite, stronger food motivation, and a higher risk of obesity (Raffan et al., 2016). This explains why some Labradors hardly seem full despite adequate feeding, but it is no free pass for unlimited portions. Which ingredients belong in the Labrador's diet? Whether wet food, dry food, BARF, or freshly cooked: Labradors need a diet with a high meat content, because meat is the most important source of protein for the active dog. Which type of feeding you choose depends primarily on your dog's preferences and your daily routine. In addition to meat, your Labrador needs smaller amounts of vegetables and fruit to provide them with vitamins and other nutrients. Grains, on the other hand, should only occur in small amounts: A high grain content often indicates inferior food quality and will not satisfy your Labrador in the long term. Also make sure that the food is free from sugar as well as artificial additives and flavorings. These foods are taboo for Labradors Labradors are generally not picky and enthusiastically eat pretty much everything that comes before their nose, unfortunately also things that are not good for them. Toxic are especially: Chocolate Walnuts Raisins and grapes Garlic and onions Mushrooms Many dogs also do not tolerate dairy products particularly well. After cheese, milk, or yogurt, Labradors often get stomach aches, bloating, or diarrhea. If your dog demonstrably tolerates dairy products well, you can give them small amounts occasionally. Bello's Tip: Even small amounts of grapes, raisins, or onions can lead to serious poisoning in dogs. Keep such foods out of reach for your Labrador, especially because they are rarely picky (Cortinovis & Caloni, 2016). How can I recognize a good Labrador diet? You can usually recognize a well-fed Labrador at first glance: Their coat shines and looks well-groomed, the skin is free of scales or irritation, and their stool is firm and unremarkable. A healthy dog shows an overall vital impression and gives off no unpleasant odor. Weight is also an important indicator and should fit their size and build. An optimally fed Labrador enjoys movement, shows endurance, and natural playfulness. Because the breed is prone to obesity, regular weight control is worth it: At critical values, you can counteract early with an adjusted food amount or additional walks. If a wrong or one-sided diet makes itself noticeable, for example through dull coat, skin problems, itching, or hair loss, you should always have it checked by a veterinarian. Dry food, wet food, or freshly cooked dog food: What suits best? When choosing the right type of food, it is worth taking a closer look at the pros and cons. Dry food A Labrador can be fed dry food without problems, although in smaller portions than with wet food, as it is significantly more energy-dense. For puppies and seniors, it is worth soaking the dry food in water beforehand. Dry food is not always the best choice, however: Many varieties contain a high grain content as well as artificial additives and flavorings, and through manufacturing at high temperatures, valuable vitamins, minerals, and trace elements are lost. In addition, dogs absorb significantly less liquid through dry food, which can weigh even more heavily on Labradors with their tendency towards joint problems and kidney strain. Wet food High-quality wet food is well received by most Labradors. Since it has a moisture content of up to seventy percent, you need larger portions of it than dry food. Here too, it is worth taking a look at the ingredient list: Many wet food varieties contain animal by-products, sugar, or flavor enhancers, and the long shelf life is often only achieved through preservatives or strong heating, whereby nutrients are lost. If a Labrador is permanently fed only with inferior wet or dry food, health problems can arise over time, such as: Obesity through hidden fillers and inferior ingredients Skin irritation and intolerances through artificial additives a weakened immune system through the loss of natural vitamins Dental problems or a sensitive digestion through one-sided nutrition Freshly cooked food Freshly cooked food can be a good decision for the health and joy of life of your Labrador. It provides natural, gently cooked ingredients and therefore retains more vitamins, minerals, and trace elements than highly processed dry or wet food. Especially for Labradors, freshly cooked food brings several advantages: Suits the high energy requirement: high-quality meat as the main protein source supports muscles and endurance Varied and tasty: fresh ingredients smell and taste more intense, a plus point for food-motivated Labradors Easily digestible: gently cooked vegetables, high-quality oils, and fresh proteins put less strain on the gastrointestinal tract Controlled portion sizes: especially helpful for Labradors with a tendency towards obesity, as meals can be individually portioned Soft consistency: pleasant for dogs with dental problems or older Labradors that no longer chew as vigorously Since it is often difficult in everyday life to cook fresh regularly yourself, a ready-made fresh food subscription like HelloBello can be a practical alternative. HelloBello Fresh Food: The Ideal Labrador Diet HelloBello Fresh Food is developed by veterinarians, consists of fresh, high-quality ingredients, and is gently cooked. It provides your dog with important nutrients that can support shiny coat, healthy skin, and a functioning immune system, without artificial additives or inferior fillers. At the same time, the portions can be individually adjusted, which helps you prevent obesity. Perfect portion sizes: individually tailored to the weight, age, and activity of your Labrador Highly digestible ingredients: gently cooked meat with well-tolerated side dishes and fresh vegetables Developed by veterinarians: balanced recipes, you do not have to balance anything yourself Without artificial additives: free from unnecessary fillers, therefore well tolerated by many Labradors. For known intolerances, discuss this additionally with your veterinarian. Flexible subscription: Recipes and portions can be adjusted as needed Try HelloBello and save on your first delivery! Frequently Asked Questions about Labrador nutrition (FAQ) How often should I feed my Labrador? For adult Labradors, two regular meals a day are generally suitable. Puppies need several smaller portions throughout the day, as their stomach is still smaller. Why are Labradors so prone to obesity? Labradors have a very pronounced appetite, which is also genetically determined in some of the population. Without controlled food intake and sufficient exercise, they therefore easily gain weight (Raffan et al., 2016). Which foods are toxic to Labradors? Chocolate, walnuts, raisins, grapes, garlic, onions and mushrooms are among the forbidden foods. Even small amounts can cause serious poisoning. What happens if a Labrador is chronically overfed? In addition to obesity, the long-term risk of secondary diseases such as osteoarthritis or diabetes increases. A well-known long-term study showed a lower risk of osteoarthritis and a higher life expectancy in Labradors fed just enough to meet their needs (Kealy et al., 2002). Can I barf my Labrador? Yes, but only with precise knowledge of its nutrient requirements and ideally in consultation with your veterinarian, as even self-prepared rations are often unbalanced. Is HelloBello fresh food suitable for Labradors? Yes. HelloBello is developed by veterinarians, gently cooked and can be individually tailored to your Labrador's weight, age and activity level, which is particularly helpful given its tendency to obesity. Conclusion: Labrador nutrition that suits a bundle of energy A Labrador is easygoing by nature, but demanding when it comes to food quantity. Controlled portions, high-quality ingredients with a high meat content and regular exercise make the difference between a dog that is merely full and one that stays truly healthy and fit. Keep a regular eye on your Labrador's weight, coat and stool consistency and always speak to your veterinarian if any concerns persist. Anita Lorber Sources: Cortinovis, C., & Caloni, F. (2016). Household food items toxic to dogs and cats. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 3, 26. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2016.00026 Freeman, L. M., Chandler, M. L., Hamper, B. A., & Weeth, L. P. (2013). Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat-based diets for dogs and cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 243(11), 1549–1558. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.243.11.1549 Kealy, R. D., Lawler, D. F., Ballam, J. M., Mantz, S. L., Biery, D. N., Greeley, E. H., Lust, G., Segre, M., Smith, G. K., & Stowe, H. D. (2002). Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 220(9), 1315–1320. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.2002.220.1315 Raffan, E., Dennis, R. J., O’Donovan, C. J., Becker, J. M., Scott, R. A., Smith, S. P., Withers, D. J., Wareham, N. J., Farooqi, I. S., & O’Rahilly, S. (2016). A deletion in the canine POMC gene is associated with weight and appetite in obesity-prone Labrador retriever dogs. Cell Metabolism, 23(5), 893–900. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2016.04.012
Nothing your dog loves more in summer than a refreshing swim – and you have the choice between the coast, lakes and mountain panoramas. We have put together ten of the most beautiful swimming spots for you and your dog in Germany, Austria and Switzerland: from the Baltic Sea to the Alps. To make sure your trip is a complete success, it is worth taking a look at freshly prepared dog food from HelloBello in advance – easily digestible and with a high moisture content, just right for active summer days by the water. Before you set off, one more important note: leash requirements and access for dogs are regulated individually by the respective municipalities and are often seasonal. So, check locally or on the municipality's website before you take the leash off. Jump to section In a nutshell: the most important things in 30 seconds The most beautiful dog swimming spots in Germany 🇩🇪 The most beautiful dog swimming spots in Austria 🇦🇹 The most beautiful dog swimming spots in Switzerland 🇨🇭 Practical tips for a swimming day with your dog Frequently asked questions about dogs and swimming lakes Conclusion: summer belongs to both of you Get your summer deal now! In a nutshell: the most important things in 30 seconds Leash requirements and access vary by municipality and season – check in advance. You can identify designated dog beaches by signage, often with a paw print symbol. Always take drinking water for your dog – salt or algae water is no substitute. After swimming, check ears and fur for foreign objects and algae. Retrieving for too long or too frantically in the water can lead to water intoxication – plan breaks. Order freshly prepared food for your summer adventure now and save! The most beautiful dog swimming spots in Germany 🇩🇪 1. Pelzerhaken (Baltic Sea, Schleswig-Holstein) Pelzerhaken is located on the Lübeck Bay near Neustadt in Holstein and is one of the most popular Baltic Sea destinations for dog owners. The fine, light-colored sandy beach slopes gently and shallowly into the water – ideal for dogs that are slowly getting used to the sea, as well as for strong swimmers. The beach area is wonderfully spacious, so there is plenty of room for everyone even on busier summer days. In the background, the view opens up far across the bay, and on clear days, sailboats can even be seen on the horizon. The area is easy to reach and is ideal for a relaxed day trip or as a base for a longer Baltic Sea holiday with your dog. 2. Kleiner Brombachsee (Franconian Lake District, Bavaria) The Kleiner Brombachsee in the Franconian Lake District is the quieter neighbour of the Großer Brombachsee – and a real insider tip for active dogs. The fine sandy beach slopes gently and shallowly into the water, so even dogs with little swimming experience can safely build up confidence. The special highlight right on the beach: a free dog agility playground with obstacles for climbing, balancing and running through. This makes it easy to combine a refreshing swim with a good workout. The gentle, green hills of the Franconian Lake District all around create an idyllic setting that invites you to relax. 3. Tegernsee (Upper Bavaria) The Tegernsee is one of Upper Bavaria's best-known and at the same time most beautiful lakes. Its crystal-clear, deep blue water is nestled between gentle hills and the peaks of the Bavarian Prealps – a sight that makes both dog and owner take a deep breath. In several places around the lake, there are publicly accessible lawns and shore sections where dogs are welcome. Especially the less touristy bays away from the town centres of Rottach-Egern and Tegernsee are ideal for a quiet swimming trip. A walk along the lakeside path can be wonderfully combined with a cooling dip in the lake. The most beautiful dog swimming spots in Austria 🇦🇹 4. Walchsee (Tyrol) The Walchsee in the Tyrolean Kaiserwinkl is considered one of Tyrol's warmest swimming lakes thanks to its shallow depth – an advantage that even warm-loving dogs appreciate. On the eastern shore, there is a dedicated dog beach with a shallow gravel entry, which is ideal especially for cautious swimmers. Surrounded by the peaks of the Kaisergebirge, the Walchsee is a perfect conclusion to a day in the mountains: After a hike, the pleasantly warm water provides a welcome, easy cooling-off for the whole family. 5. Wolfgangsee (Salzkammergut) Lake Wolfgang is nestled among the striking peaks of the Salzkammergut and is one of Austria's most picturesque lakes. While the main swimming areas in the towns of St. Wolfgang and Strobl are well visited during the high season, several idyllic, freely accessible swimming spots are hidden along the shaded lakeside path – quieter and more natural. The crystal-clear, shimmering turquoise water invites long swimming laps, while the lakeside path itself is ideal for a leisurely walk before or after a swim. 6. Weißensee (Carinthia) Weißensee in Carinthia is considered one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Europe – its crystal-clear, turquoise water against the backdrop of the Gailtal Alps looks almost unreal. As motorboats are prohibited on the lake, it remains remarkably quiet here, which is particularly beneficial for noise-sensitive dogs. Lakeside paths wind around the lake, which can be ideally combined with refreshing swimming breaks. Anyone looking for a day full of tranquility, clear water, and an impressive mountain panorama will find Weißensee just right. Try freshly prepared dog food now & start a more relaxed everyday life 7. Attersee (Salzkammergut) The Attersee is the largest lake in the Salzkammergut with its length of just under 20 kilometers and impresses with its rich blue-green color against the alpine backdrop. In addition to the lively beach baths of the lakeside towns, there are numerous quieter, publicly accessible lakeside meadows where dogs are welcome. The lake is popular with sailors and can therefore become noticeably windy on some days – an aspect that should be kept in mind for more anxious dogs. In return, the Attersee rewards with one of the most impressive mountain backdrops in the entire Salzkammergut. The most beautiful dog swimming spots in Switzerland 🇨🇭 8. Klöntalersee (Canton Glarus) Klöntalersee lies deep nestled between the steep rock faces of the Glarus region – a backdrop that looks as if it emerged from a painting. Away from the official beach baths, your dog can jump into the refreshingly cool water here all year round without a leash. The path around the lake is ideal for a leisurely hike, which can be perfectly combined with a cooling dip. Especially outside the high season, it is pleasantly quiet here – a place for everyone looking for pure nature. 9. Lake Zug (Canton Zug) Lake Zug is the quieter, less crowded neighbor of the large Central Swiss lakes. Its gentle shores slope shallowly in many places – ideal for dogs that are only slowly getting used to swimming. The view of the striking Rigi in the background makes every walk along the shore a little postcard moment. Between relaxed grassy areas and quiet bays, there is plenty of space here for a relaxing day by the water, far from the greatest hustle and bustle. Try HelloBello and save on your first delivery! Practical tips for a day at the lake with your dog Let your dog get used to the water gradually: Not every dog is a natural swimmer. Let them decide how deep they want to go and practice in shallow water before heading into deeper areas. Always bring fresh drinking water: Your dog should not swallow large amounts of lake or salt water. Offer them fresh drinking water regularly. Plan breaks during fetch: Dogs that spend hours frantically fetching balls or sticks from the water can swallow dangerously large amounts of water. You can read more about this in our guide to water poisoning in dogs. Be mindful of the time of day: On hot days, the morning or late afternoon is more pleasant than the midday heat—even for the trip to the lake. Read more in our guide to dogs and heat. Dry your dog off and check them after swimming: After swimming, check their ears, paws, and coat for algae, foreign objects, or scratches, especially if they have floppy ears. Practice recall: Reliable recall is especially important near open water—for example, if boats or swans are nearby. Frequently asked questions about dogs and swimming lakes Are dogs allowed to swim in all lakes? No, rules vary by municipality and are often different depending on the season. Official swimming areas may have bans or require dogs to be on a leash. Designated dog beaches are usually marked with a sign. How can I tell if a beach is dog-friendly? Look for signs featuring a dog symbol or the words "dog beach." If you're unsure, take a quick look at the municipality's or tourism region's website. Is lake water dangerous for dogs? Usually not in small amounts. However, if your dog swallows large amounts over a prolonged period, for example while frantically fetching, it can lead to water poisoning. Algal blooms can also be toxic—avoid swimming if the water has a greenish-blue shimmer. How often can my dog swim in summer? Healthy dogs can swim regularly. Make sure they get enough rest and that their ears and coat are thoroughly dried after every swim to prevent irritation. Does my dog need to know how to swim before I let them into the water? Not every dog is naturally confident in the water; short-legged and front-heavy breeds often find it more difficult. Introduce your dog gradually and stay within calling and throwing distance, especially the first time. What should I do if I suspect my dog has water poisoning? Stop the water play immediately, keep your dog calm, and take them to the vet right away if they show symptoms such as vomiting, a bloated abdomen, or staggering. You can find more details in our guide to water poisoning in dogs. Ready to give your dog a healthier, longer life? Discover food for active summer days now! Order now Conclusion: Summer belongs to both of you Whether it's a Baltic Sea beach, a Bavarian lake in the foothills of the Alps, or a Swiss mountain panorama, a little preparation will make a trip to the lake the highlight of the summer for you and your dog. Check the local rules beforehand, pack plenty of fresh drinking water—and then the fun in the water can begin. Anita Lorber
