Golden Retriever
Gentle, patient and always good-natured, the Golden Retriever is one of the best family dogs, but it copes poorly with strong heat.
Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever
Side by side
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 25–34 kg | 25–36 kg |
| Height at withers | 51–61 cm | 54–57 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years | 10–12 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
On paper, these two breeds are very close: none of the gaps in size, life expectancy or ratings is large enough to stand out.
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Labrador Retriever is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Labrador Retriever
Sociable, cheerful and easy to train, the Labrador is the quintessential family dog; it needs exercise and a carefully watched diet.