🐕 Dog Breed Base

Golden Retriever vs Poodle

Side-by-side comparison: lifespan, size, temperament, grooming and health.

The Golden Retriever suits active families who want a large, gentle, sociable dog, weighing 25–34 kg (55–75 lb) with males standing 56–61 cm (22–24 in). The Poodle suits owners who want a highly trainable companion in a chosen size, from a 2–3 kg (4.4–6.6 lb) Toy at 24–28 cm (9.4–11.0 in) up to a 20–32 kg (44–71 lb) Standard at 45–62 cm (18–24 in), but its curly coat demands more professional grooming. Choose the Golden for a bigger, more laid-back family dog and the Poodle for compact size, keen intelligence, and a longer potential lifespan of 10–18 years versus 10–12.

Golden RetrieverPoodle
Size25–34 kg (55–75 lb)Standard: 20–32 kg (44–71 lb); Medium: 9–13 kg (20–29 lb); Miniature: 4.5–7 kg (9.9–15.4 lb); Toy: 2–3 kg (4.4–6.6 lb)
HeightMales: 56–61 cm (22–24 in); females: 51–56 cm (20–22 in)Standard: 45–62 cm (18–24 in); Medium: 35–45 cm (14–18 in); Miniature: 28–35 cm (11–14 in); Toy: 24–28 cm (9.4–11.0 in)
Lifespan10–12 years10–18 years
TemperamentFriendly, intelligent, eager to please, gentle, reliableIntelligent, active, highly trainable, affectionate, alert
GroomingBrush several times a week with routine trimming; the dense double coat sheds heavily twice a year.Needs professional clipping every 4–6 weeks plus daily brushing to keep the curly coat from matting.
Common health issuesProne to hip and elbow dysplasia, heart and eye conditions, and cancers; maintain a healthy weight to protect joints.Watch for hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, Addison's disease, and size-specific joint and dental problems.

Key facts

  • Golden Retriever lifespan: 10–12 years.
  • Poodle lifespan: 10–18 years.
  • Golden Retriever size: 25–34 kg (55–75 lb).
  • Poodle size: Standard: 20–32 kg (44–71 lb); Medium: 9–13 kg (20–29 lb); Miniature: 4.5–7 kg (9.9–15.4 lb); Toy: 2–3 kg (4.4–6.6 lb).

Sources

Full breed profiles

Read the complete profiles: Golden Retriever · Poodle