Golden Retriever vs Smooth Fox Terrier
Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Small
Golden RetrieverLarge
A friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat.
Weight: 65–75 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Smooth Fox TerrierSmall
A friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox.
Weight: 17–19 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier sheds less.
- • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Smooth Fox Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | Scotland | England |
Height (male) | 23–24" | 15" |
Height (female) | 21.5–22.5" | 15" |
Weight (male) | 65–75 lbs | 17–19 lbs |
Weight (female) | 55–65 lbs | 15–17 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 12–15 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) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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 Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.
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Golden Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Cancer
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Skin conditions
Smooth Fox Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness