Boston Terrier vs Labrador Retriever
Non-Sporting · Small vs Sporting · Large
Boston TerrierSmall
A friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed.
Weight: 12–25 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Labrador RetrieverLarge
America's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl.
Weight: 65–80 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
- • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Boston Terrier sheds less.
- • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Small | Large |
Origin | USA | Canada |
Height (male) | 15–17" | 22.5–24.5" |
Height (female) | 15–17" | 21.5–23.5" |
Weight (male) | 12–25 lbs | 65–80 lbs |
Weight (female) | 12–25 lbs | 55–70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–13 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with strangers | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.
About the Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.
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Boston Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Patellar luxation
- • Allergies
Labrador Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive retinal atrophy