A comprehensive comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.
| Attribute | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Scotland | Canada |
| Breed Group | Sporting | Sporting |
| Life Span | 10–12 yrs | 10–12 yrs |
| Weight | 25–34 kg | 25–36 kg |
| Height | 55–61 cm | 55–62 cm |
| Temperament | Friendly, intelligent, devoted | Friendly, active, and outgoing |
| Exercise Needs | Very High (90+ min/day) | Very High (90+ min/day) |
| Grooming | high | moderate |
| Shedding | high | high |
| Good with Children | Yes | Yes |
| Apartment Friendly | No | No |
The Golden Retriever is known for being friendly, intelligent, devoted, while the Labrador Retriever tends to be friendly, active, and outgoing.
Golden Retriever
Labrador Retriever
Golden Retriever
Labrador Retriever
When it comes to daily activity, the Golden Retriever requires very high (90+ min/day) exercise, compared to the Labrador Retriever which needs very high (90+ min/day).
Golden Retriever
Labrador Retriever
Understanding the financial commitment of each breed helps you plan for a lifetime of care.
| Cost | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000 – $3,500 | $800 – $3,000 |
| Monthly Cost | ~$150/mo | ~$140/mo |
| Est. Lifetime Cost | ~$18,000+ | ~$16,800+ |
Choose the Golden Retriever if you want a breed that's friendly and intelligent, especially with a family.
Choose the Labrador Retriever if you prefer a breed that's friendly and active, great with kids.
Dive deeper into everything Golden Retriever — costs, care, and expert insights.
How Much Does a Golden Retriever Cost?
Purchase price, monthly costs, and lifetime expenses
Complete Golden Retriever Care Guide
Golden Retrievers are friendly, devoted, and eager to please. They rank among the most popular...
Complete Golden Retriever Care Guide
Your Golden Retriever brings endless joy — but that beautiful coat, those puppy eyes, and that...
Allergies in Dogs: Food, Environmental, and Seasonal
Constant scratching, ear infections, and paw licking can all point to allergies. Here's how to...
Arthritis in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, and Pain Management
Arthritis affects up to 80% of senior dogs. If your older dog is slowing down, stiff after rest, or...
Essential Vaccinations for Dogs: A Complete Schedule
Core vaccines (DAPP, rabies), non-core options, puppy schedule, adult boosters, and titer testing —...
Considering a cat instead?
Browse Cats Breeds