When choosing a pet, determining whether it perfectly fits your lifestyle is extremely important. Many people believe that the Golden Retriever and the Labrador Retriever are relatively the same breed. Though they do have many similarities, the two breeds are immensely different and contain very unique traits. Knowing the differences between the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever can help determine the perfect fit for someone considering these breeds.
Labrador Retrievers, also referred to as labs, are originally from Canada. They were bred with the intention of being a sport and hunting dog. A Labrador Retriever’s muzzle is broader and more jowly. They have heavy, dense bones with a deep, rounder chest and rib-cage. Labs are a short hair breed and typically shed their coats in three colors: yellow, black, or brown. Fully grown, Labrador Retrievers range from fifty-five to eighty pounds and fifty-five to sixty centimeters long. A Labrador Retriever’s personality is described as an energetic breed. The breed tends to be very independent however, becomes grouchy or upset when they don’t receive attention from their owners. Labs, in new situations, are full-throttle and have the mindset to act first but deliberate later.
Golden Retrievers are originally from Scotland and bred with the intention of only hunting birds. A Golden Retriever’s muzzle is narrow with a lean jaw and slimmer rib-cage. Golden Retrievers are a long, feathery coat breed and typically shed in a pale, cream color or a fox red. Golden Retrievers range from fifty-five to seventy-five pounds and fifty-six to sixty-one centimeters long. The breed is very well known for its clingy or needy personality towards its owners. Golden Retrievers are more prone to having anxiety which leads them to be exceedingly circumspect in new situations. Golden Retrievers usually don’t bolt head-first into situations, instead, they try to fathom or figure out every detail involved.
Although there are differences between the two breeds, there are many similar features. Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are a double-coated breed which benefits them during long freezing winters or traveling through icy waters. They are highly intelligent making the two breeds very trainable. Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are task-oriented allowing them to be more observant, alert, and hefty. The jaws of the two breeds allow them to prey on animals without causing any harm. This allows the Lab and the Golden Retriever to be excellent hunting dogs for ducks, rabbits, or foxes. The Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever typically live for about the same amount of years; ranging from ten to twelve years of age.
Overall, the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever are extremely excellent companionship. The two breeds may seem similar because of their name but contain many differences. Their traits, personalities, and overall well-being can vary between the two breeds. Nevertheless, it’s important to research and understand each factor involved when determining the perfect fit. These differences and similarities can leave an influence on determining whether the Labrador Retriever or the Golden Retriever will become part of the family.