Compare breeds
Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever
Golden Retriever
Long
Labrador Retriever
Short
Choose the Golden Retriever if you want…
Much the same on our scales — meet both and see which personality suits you.
Choose the Labrador Retriever if you want…
- less hair around the house
- less time spent grooming
Side by side
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 25–34 kg (55–75 lb) | 25–36 kg (55–79 lb) |
| Height | 51–61 cm (20–24 in) | 55–62 cm (22–24 in) |
| Life span | 10–12 years | 10–12 years |
| Origin | Scotland | Canada and the United Kingdom |
| Energy | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with children | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with other pets | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Suits a flat | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Shedding | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which lives longer, the Golden Retriever or the Labrador Retriever?
Their typical life spans are about the same. Golden Retriever: 10–12 years; Labrador Retriever: 10–12 years.
Is the Golden Retriever or the Labrador Retriever better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
Other comparisons
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts