The age-old question, Labrador vs Golden Retriever. Both dog breeds are popular family favorites, so what sets them apart?
Unlike other dog breeds, if you put a Labrador Retriever next to a Golden Retriever, you will find so many similarities between them because these two dog breeds are believed to have shared ancestors.
Both dogs are friendly, sweet, loyal, intelligent and affectionate. They are among the most common dog breeds in the United States. While they do have many similarities, there are some apparent ways to tell the two breeds apart.
Whether you are here to choose between the two dog breeds or simply educate yourself, this article will provide all you are looking for.
Historical Differences Between Labrador Retrievers And Golden Retrievers
Let’s have a brisk walk in history to understand each breed better.
Golden Retriever
The history of the Golden Retriever dates back to the 17th century in Scotland. In the late 1900’s, a nobleman created this breed with fusions from other common species, including the now-extinct tweed water spaniel. The Golden Retriever was perfect for the hilly terrain and cold climate in the Scottish Highlands.
Years later, the demand for this dog breed remains high, and still holds a top 3 position as one of America’s most popular dog breeds, third behind the French Bulldog and Labrador Retriever.
Labrador Retriever
The history of the Labrador Retriever starts before the 18th century in Canada. Original ancestors were the St John’s Water Dog, bred to be fishing dogs. The name “Labrador” was given after the Labrador colony of Newfoundland, a colony in Canada. Labradors were best known for hunting fish, ducks, and water animals. The Labradors double coat made swimming in icy waters tolerable. In the late 18th century, this dog breed was imported to Britain by English nobles.
Labrador Retrievers have historically ranked first among the top breeds in the United States. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) registration statistics in 2021, Labrador Retrievers were the most popular dog breed in the country. Labrador Retrievers had held this title for the previous three decades.
Nowadays, there are two different types of Labrador Retrievers, the American Lab, and the English Lab, which differ in temperament and looks.
The American Lab comes from American-bred stock primarily used for hunting and field work in Northern America. Physical traits which separate them from their English counterparts include:
- taller in height (21.5 to 24.5 inches)
- slim athletic build & appears more agile
- finer bone structure
- narrower head & thinner neck
- longer legs
- thinner coat and thinner tail
The English Lab comes from the English-bred stock which is better suited to show and conformation. Their physical traits include:
- shorter in height (21.5 to 22.5 inches)
- stockier build and bigger bone structure
- wider head & wider neck
- shorter legs
- shorter muzzle
- thicker fur & tail
No matter whether they are an English or American Lab, they are both sought after as a loving family dog. Labradors of either variety are regularly trained as service dogs and watchdogs. Their loving nature makes them protective and willing to please their owner.
Are Golden Retrievers Bigger Than Labradors?
Labradors and Golden Retrievers are very similar in appearance. In terms of size, they are an excellent choice for people who love medium to large-sized dogs. The Labrador is slightly larger than a Golden Retriever by five pounds.
Based on American Kennel Club (AKC) Breed traits and characteristics, adult Labradors weigh between 65-80 pounds. In comparison, Golden Retrievers weigh between 55- 75 pounds. Labradors also beat the Golden Retrievers in terms of height at an average of 24 inches tall.
While size and weight differ based on the individual animal, Labs are generally more sturdy and solid than Golden Retrievers, which tend to be more elegant.
Labrador Retriever Vs Golden Retriever Color
Labradors come in 3 standard colors: solid black, chocolate, and yellow. The chocolate and yellow can vary in different shades from light to black.
As the name depicts, Golden Retrievers are golden in color. The rich, lustrous golden color can vary from light shade to dark. Some golden tend to have more delicate shades of golden fur in extended coat areas.
Temperament Difference Between Labradors And Golden Retrievers
Labradors and Golden Retrievers are great dogs. Both dogs are friendly, loyal, reliable, affectionate, and easy to train. Of course, the sweet nature of these dogs is on display in many family homes. But you may want to know the personality differences between these two dogs.
Remember that every dog is different, and breed characteristics alone do not guarantee your pet’s behavior. How you raise your pup, alongside your dog’s characteristics, will determine the type of dog you have.
In general, Labs and Golden Retrievers are intelligent and easy to train. Golden Retrievers are more sensitive, softer, and gentler compared to labradors. However, Labrador Retrievers can quickly adapt to families with a more lively, active, and noisy lifestyle. On the other hand, Golden Retrievers tend to prefer a quiet and calm environment.
If you are considering getting one of these breeds, you should consider your lifestyle and the individual animal to ensure you are making a good choice.
Labrador Vs Golden Retriever Grooming
Labrador coats are less challenging to maintain during their non-shedding season. Labrador Retrievers shed their undercoat in warm weather due to their double coat. Their coat length is small and won’t need trimming. Labs will require an undercoat rake to remove dead hair for grooming sessions. They will need occasional baths, nail trims, and ear cleaning.
Golden Retrievers require regular grooming. Their medium-length double coat will need regular brushing and undercoat rake. Unlike Labs, Golden Retrievers will need trimming due to the length of their long coat. Their basic grooming needs include occasional baths, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.
Labrador Vs. Golden Retriever Shedding
Labs and Golden Retrievers have a double coat consisting of an undercoat and a top coat. Golden retrievers shed all year long. In warm weather, their coats grow thicker. Regular brushing and undercoat rake are the best way to deal with shedding, especially during heavy shedding seasons. Just be ready for all the fur everywhere!
Labs don’t shed as much as Golden Retrievers because their coats are shorter. But irrespective of the length, their undercoat experiences a lot of molting in warm weather. Engaging in regular outdoor brushing should help control excessive shedding.
A Pet owner survey showed that Labrador owners had the following insights into their Labrador shedding habits: 50.3% said they shed a lot, 36.6% said they shed sometimes, and 13.1% said they don’t shed much.
So, in case you are wondering which breed sheds less, a Labrador typically wins this. But during the shedding season, neither of these dogs are non-shedding dogs.
Labrador Retrievers In The Home
Labs are known for being energetic. So, they are full of vigor at home and must be frequently entertained. Labradors have high exercise needs and require mental stimulation daily. These breeds are so energetic that they are ready to play anytime, any day. So you must be prepared to be on your feet if you have one.
Golden Retrievers In The Home
Unlike Labs, Golden Retrievers are typically less energetic and more relaxed. Once your pup has had its exercise for the day, be ready to see them lying around all day. A Golden Retriever will gladly spend his day cuddling with his favorite human.
Irrespective of the difference between these dogs at home, they are both loving dog breeds and are fun to have in your family.
Health Concerns In Labrador And Golden Retrievers.
Labradors and Golden Retrievers are usually healthy dog breeds, but some health concerns run in their bloodline. So here are some health concerns in both breeds to look out for.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a prevalent medical issue that affects medium to large dogs. Over time, this can cause arthritis and limpness in the limbs.
Progressive Retina Atrophy
This illness can cause a reduction in the retina’s function, which, in time, results in blindness. Both dogs are susceptible to this health condition.
Exercise-Induced Collapse
This illness is the loss of muscle control.
Some illnesses are predisposed to a specific breed. For example, one of the leading causes of death in Golden Retrievers is cancer. Labradors are at an increased risk of suffering from obesity.
Which Dog Breed Is The Best For You?
Both dog breeds make excellent family dogs. Your choice should depend on your lifestyle and your dog’s personality. Which of the following best matches your lifestyle?
Labrador Retrievers
- You have an active lifestyle, and you can match their energy during playtime.
- You can give them adequate mental stimulation and meet their exercise needs.
- You need a sturdy, loyal, and sweet friend.
- You can give necessary training on basic commands and if needed, guard training.
- You need a family dog that is happy to show you love all the time.
Golden Retrievers
- You need a calm, relaxed dog that will require many hours of exercise.
- You need a family dog that can shower your family with lots of love and cuddle.
- You are willing to commit time to regular grooming sessions.
- You can give them the necessary training on basic commands and, if needed, a service dog.
- You need an elegant, sweet, and loyal friend.
Takeaway
Whether you are searching for a Labrador or a Golden Retriever, both dogs are great pets with high popularity. Whatever your choice, we can guarantee you are coming home with a “good dog.”
So stop comparing Labrador vs Golden Retriever and choose based on your preference and lifestyle. (Or maybe just get 1 of each?)