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