A comprehensive comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.
| Attribute | Labrador Retriever | Poodle |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Canada | Germany |
| Breed Group | Sporting | Non-Sporting |
| Life Span | 10–12 yrs | 12–15 yrs |
| Weight | 25–36 kg | 20–32 kg |
| Height | 55–62 cm | 38–61 cm |
| Temperament | Friendly, active, and outgoing | Active, intelligent, and elegant |
| Exercise Needs | Very High (90+ min/day) | High (60-90 min/day) |
| Grooming | moderate | high |
| Shedding | high | low |
| Good with Children | Yes | Yes |
| Apartment Friendly | No | Yes |
The Labrador Retriever is known for being friendly, active, and outgoing, while the Poodle tends to be active, intelligent, and elegant.
Labrador Retriever
Poodle
Labrador Retriever
Poodle
When it comes to daily activity, the Labrador Retriever requires very high (90+ min/day) exercise, compared to the Poodle which needs high (60-90 min/day).
Labrador Retriever
Poodle
Understanding the financial commitment of each breed helps you plan for a lifetime of care.
| Cost | Labrador Retriever | Poodle |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $800 – $3,000 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Monthly Cost | ~$140/mo | ~$130/mo |
| Est. Lifetime Cost | ~$16,800+ | ~$18,720+ |
Both breeds have breed-specific health considerations. Being aware of these helps you plan for preventive care and vet visits.
Labrador Retriever
Life span: 10–12 yrs
No breed-specific health issues documented.
Poodle
Life span: 12–15 yrs
Choose the Labrador Retriever if you want a breed that's friendly and active, especially with a family.
Choose the Poodle if you prefer a breed that's active and intelligent and adapts to smaller spaces, great with kids.
Dive deeper into everything Labrador Retriever — costs, care, and expert insights.
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