Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever
| Attribute | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Height | 55 - 61 cm | 55 - 62 cm |
| Weight | 29 kg | 31 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 11 years | 12 years |
| FCI Group | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs |
| Grooming | Medium | Low |
| Shedding | High | High |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Trainability | High | High |
| Child Friendly | High | High |
| Character | The Golden Retriever is known for its friendly and balanced nature. | The Labrador Retriever is known for his friendly and balanced temperament. |
How we compare
This comparison is based on structured breed data from our Hundeo profiles and editorial fit criteria. It is meant as orientation, not as a substitute for individual advice from a trainer or veterinarian.
- Data basis: size, weight, life expectancy, FCI group, and profile details come from maintained breed profiles.
- Everyday fit: grooming, activity, trainability, child-friendliness, and living situation are evaluated as guidance for common owner questions.
- Independence: breed comparisons do not contain paid placements; recommendations follow the criteria, not commissions.
- Limits: every dog is individual. Health, behavior, and training questions should be discussed with a veterinarian or qualified trainer when needed.
Comparison
Golden Retriever
Labrador Retriever
- 1Energy LevelGolden Retriever4/5Labrador Retriever4/5
- 2TrainabilityGolden Retriever4/5Labrador Retriever4/5
- 3Child FriendlyGolden Retriever4/5Labrador Retriever4/5
- 4GroomingGolden Retriever3/5Labrador Retriever2/5
- 5SheddingGolden Retriever4/5Labrador Retriever4/5
Summary
The Golden Retriever is a large dog (29 kg) with a life expectancy of 11 years. The Labrador Retriever is medium (31 kg) and lives 12 years. For grooming, the Golden Retriever rates medium, the Labrador Retriever low. The Golden Retriever scores high for child-friendliness, the Labrador Retriever high. The Labrador Retriever is lower-maintenance overall.
Which breed is a better fit?
vsFor Beginners
Both breeds are comparable
vsFor Families
Both breeds are comparable
vsFor Active People
Both breeds are comparable
Low MaintenanceLabrador Retriever: grooming low, shedding high
Labrador RetrieverFor ApartmentsLabrador Retriever is medium with high energy
Labrador RetrieverFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever?
The Golden Retriever is a large dog (29 kg) with high energy. The Labrador Retriever is medium (31 kg) with high energy. The Golden Retriever lives 11 years, the Labrador Retriever 12 years.
Which breed is better for families: Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever?
The Golden Retriever's child-friendliness is rated high, the Labrador Retriever's as high. Both breeds should be socialized with children early.
Which breed needs more grooming: Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever?
Grooming needs for the Golden Retriever are medium, for the Labrador Retriever low. Shedding is high for the Golden Retriever and high for the Labrador Retriever.