Doberman Pinscher vs Labrador Retriever

Working · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Doberman Pinscher is the larger breed at 75–100 lbs (males) vs 65–80 lbs for the Labrador Retriever.
  • The Labrador Retriever typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Doberman Pinscher sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitDoberman PinscherLabrador Retriever
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
GermanyCanada
Height (male)
26–28"22.5–24.5"
Height (female)
24–26"21.5–23.5"
Weight (male)
75–100 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
60–90 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)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
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is a loyal, fearless, alert guardian — sleek, athletic, and one of the most intelligent breeds in the world. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 75–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, fearless, alert.

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.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Doberman Pinscher health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Bloat

Labrador Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity
  • Progressive retinal atrophy