Labrador Retriever vs Golden Retriever
Side-by-side comparison: lifespan, size, temperament, grooming and health.
Both breeds live 10–12 years and share similar exercise needs; the Labrador's shorter coat demands less grooming, while the Golden's longer coat requires brushing 2-3 times weekly. Health profiles differ meaningfully: Goldens have elevated cancer rates (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma), whereas Labradors more commonly struggle with obesity and exercise-induced collapse.
| Labrador Retriever | Golden Retriever | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Males 29–36 kg (65–80 lb), females 25–32 kg (55–70 lb) | Males 29–34 kg (65–75 lb), females 25–29 kg (55–65 lb) |
| Height | Males 57–62 cm (22.5–24.5 in) | Males 56–61 cm (22–24 in) |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years | 10–12 years |
| Temperament | Outgoing, eager to please, high energy | Gentle, intelligent, high energy |
| Grooming | Short double coat, sheds heavily seasonally | Long double coat, sheds heavily year-round, needs brushing 2-3x weekly |
| Common health issues | Hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, exercise-induced collapse (EIC) | Hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma), subvalvular aortic stenosis |
Key facts
- Labrador Retriever lifespan: 10–12 years.
- Golden Retriever lifespan: 10–12 years.
- Labrador Retriever size: Males 29–36 kg (65–80 lb), females 25–32 kg (55–70 lb).
- Golden Retriever size: Males 29–34 kg (65–75 lb), females 25–29 kg (55–65 lb).
Sources
Full breed profiles
Read the complete profiles: Labrador Retriever · Golden Retriever