Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever

Side-by-side comparison of temperament, health, size, and care needs.

Golden RetrieverLabrador Retriever

Traits Overview

Golden Retriever

Labrador Retriever

Energy Level

Golden Retriever

4/5

Labrador Retriever

4/5

Trainability

Golden Retriever

5/5

Labrador Retriever

5/5

Good with Kids

Golden Retriever

5/5

Labrador Retriever

5/5

Good with Pets

Golden Retriever

5/5

Labrador Retriever

5/5

Grooming Needs

Golden Retriever

3/5

Labrador Retriever

2/5

All breeds share similar energy level (4/5).
All breeds share similar trainability (5/5).
All breeds share similar kid-friendliness (5/5).
All breeds share similar pet-friendliness (5/5).
Golden Retriever scores highest in grooming needs (3/5 vs 2/5).
Both breeds are prone to Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia.

Attribute	Golden Retriever Devoted, intelligent, and friendly. One of the most popular family dogs, also excels as service and therapy dogs.	Labrador Retriever America's most popular breed, known for friendly temperament, intelligence, and versatility as family pet, service dog, and hunting companion.
Size	large	large
Weight	55-75 lbs	55-80 lbs
Height	21.5-24 in	21.5-24.5 in
Life Span	10-12 years	10-12 years
Origin	Scotland	Canada
Group	Sporting	Sporting
Energy Level
Trainability
Good with Kids
Good with Pets
Grooming Needs
Temperament	IntelligentFriendlyDevotedReliable	FriendlyActiveOutgoingGentle
Common Health Issues	Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Cancer Heart disease	Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Progressive retinal atrophy Obesity
Exercise	60+ min daily exercise	60+ min daily vigorous exercise
Grooming	Brush 2-3 times weekly	Weekly brushing, more during shedding
Diet	High-quality food with omega fatty acids	High-quality food, watch portions