Golden Retriever vs Vizsla

Sporting · Large vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 55–60 lbs for the Vizsla.
  • The Vizsla typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Vizsla sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGolden RetrieverVizsla
Group
SportingSporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
ScotlandHungary
Height (male)
23–24"22–24"
Height (female)
21.5–22.5"21–23"
Weight (male)
65–75 lbs55–60 lbs
Weight (female)
55–65 lbs44–55 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–14 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)Low (2/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Vizsla

The Vizsla is an affectionate, energetic, gentle Hungarian pointer — the original 'velcro dog' that needs constant company. Originally from Hungary, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 55–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, energetic, gentle.

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Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions

Vizsla health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism