Jack Russell Terrier vs Labrador Retriever
Terrier · Small vs Sporting · Large
Jack Russell TerrierSmall
A fearless, vocal, athletic small fox terrier — Eddie from Frasier, ten pounds of pure energy.
Weight: 13–17 lbsLifespan: 13–18 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 13–17 lbs for the Jack Russell Terrier.
- • The Jack Russell Terrier typically lives longer (13–18 years).
- • The Jack Russell Terrier sheds less.
- • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Jack Russell Terrier | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Sporting |
Size | Small | Large |
Origin | England | Canada |
Height (male) | 10–15" | 22.5–24.5" |
Height (female) | 10–15" | 21.5–23.5" |
Weight (male) | 13–17 lbs | 65–80 lbs |
Weight (female) | 13–17 lbs | 55–70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–18 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a fearless, vocal, athletic small fox terrier — Eddie from Frasier, ten pounds of pure energy. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–17 lbs and lives 13–18 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, vocal, athletic.
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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Jack Russell Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness
Labrador Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive retinal atrophy