Labrador Retriever vs Toy Poodle

Sporting · Large vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 4–6 lbs for the Toy Poodle.
  • The Toy Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Toy Poodle sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLabrador RetrieverToy Poodle
Group
SportingToy
Size
LargeToy
Origin
CanadaGermany
Height (male)
22.5–24.5"9–10"
Height (female)
21.5–23.5"9–10"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs4–6 lbs
Weight (female)
55–70 lbs4–6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years10–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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.

About the Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is an active, intelligent, lively toy version of the Poodle — apartment-friendly hypoallergenic charmer. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 4–6 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, intelligent, lively.

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Labrador Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Toy Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Eye disorders
  • Dental issues