German Spitz vs Labrador Retriever
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
German Spitz: Regular Exercise0.6
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
German Spitz: Eager to Please1.0
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
German Spitz: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
German Spitz3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
German Spitz4/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Strangers
German Spitz4/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
German Spitz
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Dental Issues: Tooth decay and loss
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Tracheal Collapse: Airway weakness
Labrador Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
PRA: Progressive eye deterioration
Exercise-Induced Collapse: Activity limit
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
German Spitz
Pros
Highly adaptable
Excellent watchdog
Affectionate with family
Low maintenance cost
Cons
Can be vocal
Suspicious of strangers
Regular grooming needed
Strong prey drive
Labrador Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to weight gain
Chewing tendency in puppyhood
German Spitz Fun Fact
Despite their small size, German Spitz were historically used as effective watchdogs on farms throughout Germany.
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
Heritage & Purpose
German Spitz
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 18th century as versatile farm dogs and watchdogs. These alert companions served as effective alarm systems while providing companionship to rural families.
Labrador Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1800s, these dogs worked alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish, later refined in England as sporting and hunting companions.
Special Considerations
German Spitz
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat condition. Moderate exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Labrador Retriever
Regular grooming needed during heavy shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Weight management crucial to prevent obesity-related health issues.
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