Can you take a guess at which two puppies hold the second and third spots on the list of most? popular dog breeds according to the American Kennel Club In 2025, according to this article you're reading, it will be the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever maintaining their top positions. These two popular dog breeds continue to capture hearts as they always have. family dogs extraordinaire 1) share quite a few similarities.
They are roughly the same size, equally trainable, and have similar shedding patterns. The similarity in their names also indicates another shared trait: They both originated from hunting dogs in order to fetch game birds for their owners.
Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers share equally enthusiastic and joyful temperaments, which makes them incredibly lovable. Moreover, each breed has managed to capture our affection for over a hundred years: The American Kennel Club has acknowledged Golden Retrievers since 1925 and Labradors since 1917.
A shared attribute? Predictability. "The character and behavior traits closely align with each breed, making them cherished favorites across many years," explains Brandi H. Munden, Vice President of Communications at AKC. "Their predictable nature tends to be particularly appealing to pet owners."
Nevertheless, despite the numerous similarities between Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, there are slight distinctions between them, including their coat types, facial structure, overall build, energy levels, and aptitudes.
Ahead, a comparison of Golden retrievers versus Labradors. If you're considering adopting one of these stunning dogs, here are some factors that might assist you in determining which would suit your lifestyle best.
Goldens Retrievers versus Labradors: Commonalities
They’re similar in size.
Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are roughly the same size when they reach adulthood, with Goldens ranging from 65 to 75 pounds for males and 55 to 65 pounds for females. Likewise, Labs Goldens should weigh between 65 and 80 pounds for males and 55 to 70 pounds for females. In terms of height at maturity, both breeds are quite alike: Golden Retrievers stand 21.5 to 24 inches tall, whereas Labrador Retrievers measure from 21.5 to 24.5 inches.
They require roughly the same amount of shedding and have comparable grooming requirements.
According to Munden, both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers shed significantly, though opinions vary on whether one sheds more than the other. Goldens possess dense, waterproof double coats that lead to heavy shedding two or three times annually, along with regular moderate shedding. Similarly, Labradors feature thick, waterproof double coats causing them to molt heavily twice every year, accompanied by consistent moderate shedding throughout the months.
For both breeds, routine grooming such as brushing helps eliminate loose hair, reducing the amount found on furnishings. Additionally, they both require consistent bathing, nail clipping, and toothbrushing for optimal hygiene.
Each makes an excellent family pet but excels in distinct manners.
Certainly, each dog has its distinct personality, yet both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers excel with kids and family units, according to Munden. Nevertheless, Goldens generally exhibit a more gentle and composed nature regarding disposition. Conversely, Labs usually display higher energy levels.
The solution isn’t universal—it truly hinges on your way of life and what your household requires. "Both breeds excel and it’s not surprising why they hold such popularity," according to Munden.
Both are regarded as simple to train.
Golden Retrievers are sociable and tend to be compliant, which makes their training rather straightforward. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs with an equally strong desire to please, known for being exceptionally amiable breeds.
Goldens Retrievers versus Labradors: What Sets Them Apart?
They vary in color—Goldens' fur is notably softer.
Coats might be the simplest method to distinguish between these breeds. According to the AKC, Golden Retrievers possess coats that are both thick and elastic, described as "not coarse or silken." On the other hand, Labrador Retrievers feature short, dense fur which feels quite firm when touched, per the AKC description. Their undercoats are softer yet resistant to adverse weather conditions.
Golden Retrievers boast longer coats with, you might expect, a golden hue! This coat usually features a rich, glossy gold ranging from creamy tones to nearly an orangish shade.
In contrast, Labradors feature shorter fur and are available in yellow, black, or chocolate shades. While you may encounter other color variations like silver and champagne in Labrador Retrievers, keep in mind that the American Kennel Club acknowledges only these three classic hues as official.
Their facial features and body structure also assist in distinguishing between them.
Goldens have slightly longer muzzles and longer ears than Labs, while Labs have broader, heavier heads. Labs also are a bit heavier in the body than Goldens, due to the former breed having a deeper bone density, rounder and wider rib cages, and deeper chests.
Golden retrievers are the more tranquil of the pair.
Laboratories typically exhibit high energy levels, whereas Golden Retrievers maintain a more balanced activity level and may occasionally act like lazy couch potatoes, according to Munden.
Laboratories generally have a longer lifespan.
Golden Retrievers typically have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, whereas Labradors generally live between 11 to 13 years, as stated by the AKC.
Which Breed Is More Intelligent, Golden Retrievers or Labradors?
It usually comes down to individual preference. According to Munden, "Both breeds exhibit high levels of intelligence but in different manners. This distinction is evident from the tasks they perform." For instance, Labrador Retrievers frequently stand out in roles like law enforcement and assistance, including search-and-rescue missions; meanwhile, Golden Retrievers shine particularly in therapeutic settings and various forms of support services.
Which Has More Health Problems: Golden Retrievers or Labrador Retrievers?
"Breeders put significant effort into producing the healthiest dogs possible, and specific health tests are suggested for various issues associated with each breed," explains Munden.
Here are the health screenings suggested by respective national breed clubs for each breed.
Recommended health examinations for Golden Retrievers :
- Hip evaluation
- Elbow evaluation
- Ophthalmologist evaluation
- DNA Test for Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL)
- Cardiac exam
Recommended health examinations for Labrador Retrievers :
- Hip evaluation
- Exercise-induced Collapse (EIC)
- Centronuclear Myopathy (CNM): Evaluation by an Ophthalmologist
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRCD)
- D Locus DNA test
- Elbow evaluation
Bottom Line: Is a Labrador Better or a Golden Retriever?
In truth, minor differences aside—like variations in appearance (the biggest lies in their coat colors) and activity level (Labs like to be on the move a bit more)—if you’re looking for a dog with an even temperament as a friendly, loyal, and devoted companion, you can’t go wrong with either breed.
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