Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever
Sporting · Large vs Sporting · Large
Golden RetrieverLarge
A friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat.
Weight: 65–75 lbsLifespan: 10–12 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 65–75 lbs for the Golden Retriever.
- • The Labrador Retriever typically lives longer (11–13 years).
- • The Labrador Retriever sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | Scotland | Canada |
Height (male) | 23–24" | 22.5–24.5" |
Height (female) | 21.5–22.5" | 21.5–23.5" |
Weight (male) | 65–75 lbs | 65–80 lbs |
Weight (female) | 55–65 lbs | 55–70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 11–13 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. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | 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 | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Very High (5/5) | 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. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | medium | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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.
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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Golden Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Cancer
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Skin conditions
Labrador Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive retinal atrophy