Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever
Breed Compatibility
100% Compatible
Energy Level
Golden Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Golden Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Golden Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Golden Retriever5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Golden Retriever5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Strangers
Golden Retriever5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Golden Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Skin Allergies: Common in breed
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
Golden Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Friendly disposition
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to health issues
Can be mouthy
Requires regular grooming
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
Golden Retriever Fun Fact
Golden Retrievers have such soft mouths they can carry an egg without breaking it, a trait from their hunting heritage.
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
Heritage & Purpose
Golden Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s by Lord Tweedmouth to retrieve waterfowl in challenging terrains. Combined existing retrievers with water spaniels for the perfect hunting companion.
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
Golden Retriever
Regular grooming needed to manage shedding. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Joint health should be monitored, especially in growing puppies.
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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