Bouvier des Flandres vs Golden Retriever

Herding · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Bouvier des Flandres is the larger breed at 70–110 lbs (males) vs 65–75 lbs for the Golden Retriever.
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bouvier des Flandres sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBouvier des FlandresGolden Retriever
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
BelgiumScotland
Height (male)
24.5–27.5"23–24"
Height (female)
23.5–26.5"21.5–22.5"
Weight (male)
70–110 lbs65–75 lbs
Weight (female)
70–110 lbs55–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a courageous, strong-willed, devoted Belgian cattle drover — bearded farm guardian and WWI ambulance dog. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 70–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, strong-willed, devoted.

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Bouvier des Flandres health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions