Quick Comparison # Trait Labrador Retriever Golden Retriever Size 55–80 lbs 55–75 lbs Lifespan 10–14 years 10–12 years Coat Short, dense, water-resistant Long, feathered, water-repellent Shedding Heavy Heavy (worse than Lab) Energy Very high High Trainability Extremely easy Extremely easy Good With Kids Excellent Excellent Good With Strangers Loves everyone instantly Loves everyone instantly Barking Moderate Moderate Cost $800–$2,000 $1,500–$3,500 Overview # Labrador or Golden? It’s the most-asked question in the dog world — and for good reason. These two retrievers share more DNA (and personality) than almost any other pair of breeds. Both are friendly, intelligent, family-loving, and eager to please.
Quick Facts # Trait Detail Size Medium–Large (55–80 lbs) Height 21.5–24.5 inches Lifespan 10–14 years Coat Short, dense, water-resistant double coat Colors Yellow, black, chocolate Temperament Outgoing, even-tempered, gentle Energy Level Very high Good With Kids Excellent Good With Dogs Excellent Shedding Heavy Barking Moderate — more when bored Trainability Very easy Overview # The Labrador Retriever has held the title of America’s most popular dog breed for over 30 years. Originally bred in Newfoundland — not Labrador — as a fisherman’s helper, Labs have evolved into the ultimate all-purpose dog: family companion, service animal, hunting partner, and search-and-rescue worker.
Quick Facts # Trait Detail Size Large (55–75 lbs) Height 21.5–24 inches Lifespan 10–12 years Coat Double coat, water-repellent Colors Cream, light golden, dark golden Temperament Friendly, intelligent, eager to please Energy Level High Good With Kids Excellent Good With Dogs Excellent Shedding Heavy Barking Moderate Trainability Very easy Overview # The Golden Retriever is consistently one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia — and for good reason. Bred to retrieve waterfowl, Goldens combine intelligence, athleticism, and a famously gentle mouth with an almost impossibly friendly temperament.