How to differentiate between golden retriever and Labrador: Golden Retriever VS Labrador Retriever Puppy
Trying to decide amongst a Golden Retriever and Labrador retriever for your family? These two very prevalent dog breeds are very similar, and simultaneously also quite different in numerous respects. Find out how to differentiate between golden retriever and Labrador. The Golden Retriever and the Labrador are very alike dogs. Simultaneously, they are also quite different in countless ways. They are both sweet-natured family dogs who have been preferred all over the world.
Conversely, they are both dissimilar in their energy levels. Golden Retrievers can be more stress-free rather than Labrador Retrievers. The Golden retrievers also require more grooming rather than the Labrador. Goldens can also be slightly inexpensive once purchasing a puppy.
Whether you want to decide which dog breed suits you better or you are here to learn, hopefully, you will get the information you are in search of.
Breed Comparison
Golden Retriever
- Height: 21 to 24 Inches
- Weight: 55 to 75 Pounds
- Temperament: Gentle, Smart, Loving
- Energy: Very High
- Health: Above Average
- Lifespan:10 to 12 Years
- Price: $1,000 to $1,300
Labrador Retriever
- Height :21 to 25 Inches
- Weight: 55 to 80 Pounds
- Temperament: Energetic, Intelligent, Friendly
- Energy: High
- Health: Average
- Lifespan: 10 to 12 Years
- Price: $1,000 to $2,000
Table of Contents
Breed History
Regardless of looking similar, these curious dogs have different histories and originate from opposite sides of the globe. Both dog breed were bred for related working conditions. And both canines have developed into excellent family pets.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever’s life started in Scotland in the 19th Century. The adroit nobleman, Lord Tweedmouth I, wanted a gun dog that was different from any other. With his canine breeding experience, he generated the Golden Retriever that we have now. It was made by a mixture made of the Tweed Water Spaniel, the “then” Golden Retriever, Bloodhound, as well as the Irish Setter.
The ideal gun dog had the capability to sniff out his owner’s victim and then gather it without beating it, and in the gun dog world, this is called a “soft mouth.” After fifty years of engineering the ideal gun dog, Lord Tweedmouth’s sons floated him across the Atlantic sea to USA, where Golden’s fame started.
Labrador retriever
The Labrador Retriever comes from the 19th century; however, this dog is from the different side of the pond in Canada. Similar to the Golden Retriever, Lab is also a working pooch; however, more usually worked on water instead of on the land. Lab was the fisherman’s preferred and was best recognized for gathering ducks, fish, and several other small water animals.
The Labrador retriever became popular when visiting English nobles navigated him back to Britain. Unluckily, he is not from Labrador; however, he is actually from Newfoundland; it is still unfamiliar nowadays why the English nobles named him the “Labrador Retriever.” Since then, these dogs have become a family favorite all over the world.
Appearance: Golden Retriever vs. Labrador retriever
Labradors come in Chocolate, Black, as well as Yellow, while Goldens come in some shades of Golden Blond. The Lab and Goldens are identical in their appearance. They are medium-sized canines, and the Labrador beats the Golden by half an inch regarding height at 24.5 inches at the withers. The Labrador is also somewhat heavier compared to the Golden, standardly, by five pounds.
To put that into outlook is only the weight of a sugar bag; thus, there really isn’t much dissimilarity in their weight either.
The Goldens are more beautiful in his appearance because of being slimmer rather than the Labrador, and the Labrador appears a bit beefier, which contains a lot to do with his fur. The Golden Retriever has a basecoat and an outer fur to keep him warm; however, his outer fur is longer, wavier, and lenient in appearance, providing him a stylish look.
Correspondingly, the Labrador also contains an under as well as outer coat; however, his outer wool is much shorter and thicker. The Labrador’s fur acts in a comparable way to a wetsuit, catching body heat to retain him warm in the cold Canadian waters. Both of their furs are water-resistant; however, the Labrador’s goes beyond in that his fur is also ice resistant.
The Labrador contains a wider range of coat colors compared to the Golden. The Labrador’s most prevalent color is the yellow fur, followed by chocolate color, and then black. Red Labs are also present as well, but numerous breeders don’t identify them as purebreds.
The Golden only have one color, and that is Golden, although in many shades of golden. In adulthood, the Golden Retriever’s fur changes to an nearly white or a dark golden shade, while the Labrador, minus some grey hairs, upholds his color.
One more elegance regarding the Golden is his tail, it is extended in length, the hair is also lengthy and plumes, and similar human arms. The Labrador contains a very different tail. It is extended; however, it is thick having short hair and looks like the tail of the otter.
Temperament
Both breeds are lively and lovable, and friendly and communal. Both breeds are similar in their reputation. As stated by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Labrador retriever is the most prevalent breed in the US out of a gigantic 193 breeds, and the Golden Retriever nearly follows Labs at number 3. Besides, for anyone doubting which dog accomplished to slide among them, the German Shepherd takes number 2.
The Golden Retriever as well as Labrador have remained in their spot since 2013, in relation to the AKC, with additional online resources further proposing the Labrador has preserved his top spot for around quarter of a century, which by anybody’s standards is very impressive.
They both have same temperaments, and they are both recognized to be kind, friendly, obedient, loving, and friendly canines. There are some dissimilarities that set them to one side, and these differences in personality are frequently the factors that aid families decide which dog breed is better.
Golden Retrievers in Family
When the Golden Retriever has shared in his hour of everyday exercise, he is a chilled-out doggy. Obviously, he likes to play and exercise; however, in between those periods, he likes to lay and sleep and cuddle with his family.
Additionally, the Golden Retriever would like a day out traveling but would similarly enjoy a day comforting. He will favorably amuse himself if his family members must leave him at home, then will take himself off for an evening nap.
Labrador Retrievers In Family
Labrador retriever is best recognized for being active and boisterous. He wants to be amused more frequently compared to the Golden. Labs also need longer and more powerful exercise. They also need extra mental motivation.
Infrequently will you fatigue out a Labrador, and even though he also enjoys a cuddle, he is frequently too busy to recall that he needs one. When Labs calm down, they are glad to be couch potatoes nearby the home and love being near their loved ones at all times.
Regardless of their difference in energy level, they are similarly as affectionate and sweet-natured, which makes Labs a great option for a family pet. They are good with kids and other animals. As the Labrador is somewhat more robust, he might be more suitable to a family with older kids. This is because of the fact his energy and sturdy stature could be excessive for young kids. But, this indeed is a particular choice.
Exercise: Golden Retriever vs. Labrador Retriever
Both breeds require around an hour of everyday movement and playtime to be in good shape. Both of these doggy companions are working canines. This means they require a noteworthy amount of exercise. It is suggested that they both get one hour of exercise a day.
Both dog breeds will like retrieving items. You’ll purchase many balls and frisbees; both dog breeds will love contributing to dexterity courses. They are also recognized to be great running companions.
Just be guaranteed to talk to your Veterinarian to ensure his joints can endure long runs. Furthermore, the Labrador likes to swim; thus, playing ball in your native lake will be great entertainment for you both.
The Labrador’s energetic personality means that he can get agitated quite easily. Restless canines become harsh dogs. He can get nervous if left at home for several hours on end. And worse, he can be recognized as undergoing separation anxiety. The best approach to overcome this situation is to leave your dog with puzzle-treat-filled dog toys to retain him busy when you are away.
Training
Both breeds are comparatively easy to train, making them excellent choices as service animals as well as therapy dogs. Both the Goldens and the Labs are smart pups. They both cherish nothing more than to gratify their family members. This ideal combination makes them comparatively easy to train.
This trainability is one of the key reasons Goldens and Labs are nominated as guide dogs for sniffer dogs, among numerous other dog professions. Don’t take this for approval, though. They still require training the ropes, and if you need outcomes, you should be consistent.
Although these dogs are some of the most approachable dogs, they still have to be trained early. Socialization is the best way to guarantee that they grow into a well-mannered home. You’ll have to train them with appropriate recall instructions; thus, they are relaxed outside the house in all situations.
Golden Retriever vs. Labrador Retriever Health
Only some breed-specific conditions arise in both dog breeds, making them legitimately healthy dogs. The Golden Retriever and the Labrador are healthy canines. However, as with any pooch, there will be health issues to watch for that can run in their pedigrees.
Both breeds might or might not get these health concerns. Both breeds tend to the below health problems:
1. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
This is the disintegration of the eye’s retina, which can cause loss of vision. Both breeds are predisposed to this condition. This means it’s a danger no matter which dog you decide to bring into your family
2. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most common health problems in medium as well as large dogs. This condition is an abnormal generation in the hip as well as elbow joints. This can lead to crippling leg lameness and painful stiffness in the joints.
3. Exercise-Induced Collapse
This is not a predominantly common disorder, although both Golden Retrievers and Labradors can be hurt. Following a time of too much exercise, the dog can have a loss of muscular mechanism.
Signs can vary from dragging their limbs when they are running to fall down and being completely powerless to move. In very infrequent circumstances, the dog can die instantly. Less serious conditions can last up to 30 minutes.
4. Cancer
One unlucky difference to be conscious of if you want to take a Golden Retriever into your family is that he is mainly disposed to cancer. Research in the 1990s recognized that 61% of Goldens deaths were because of cancer of some form.
Researchers believe this is because of a genetic metamorphosis in the North American Golden DNA. The death frequency in the European Golden Retriever was lower at 38%. So, it is mainly significant to ask about his parent’s well-being.
You’ll need to make sure that there hasn’t been any cancer in the family. Trustworthy breeders should not breed from canines that have had cancer. After being selective, you can enhance the chances of getting a healthier dog.
Golden Retriever vs. Labrador Retriever Nutritional Requirements
Labs have the tendency to become obese; thus, they require a watchful eye to ensure they don’t overdo it. Both dog breeds are similar concerning their nutrition. They both require around three cups of food daily.
As with any pooch, good quality food retains your dog in tip-top state. Golden Retrievers must eat high-quality food with alo6t of omega 3’s to retain their furs healthy. Labradors must consume dog food prepared for active breeds. Always seek foods that list a called animal protein as the main ingredient.
No matter the company of dog food you select, it must be age-fitting. Such as puppy food can be very rich in calories; thus, do not feed your dog puppy food if he isn’t a pup. Always purchase the best quality dog food you can pay for. There are several dog food choices comprising dry food, wet, fresh, as well as freeze-dried.
Both breeds are correspondingly famous for being food orientated. But, the Labrador is somewhat more than the Golden Retriever. Treats are excellent to reward decent behavior, but be cautious not to overcook it on the Scooby snacks.
A Golden vs. A Lab: Grooming
Suppose to bathe your Lab every 6 weeks and your Golden dog every 4 weeks. Both the Golden Retriever as well as Labrador hold double coats. This is their natural protection against the elements, which was required both in the Scottish Highlands as well as in the Canadian cold. Usually, both breeds need brushing once or two times a week.
However, they need more grooming throughout the shedding season, which is frequently twice a year. In the winter season, both of their basecoats grow thick to keep them warm, and during spring and summer, their basecoat sheds. Normally, their shedding takes around three weeks to complete, and throughout this period, you can think to groom them more often, approximately 3 to 4 times a week.
The Golden Retriever is more challenging than the Labrador as he needs more grooming than just brushing. As the Golden Retriever contains a longer feathering coat, he requires additional attention. This longer coat tends to mean the Golden sheds more throughout the shedding season compared to the Lab.
The longer coat requires trimming every two months to stop it from becoming too long. The Labrador doesn’t need this extra trimming, and thus he is slightly at ease on the grooming front.
Not only does the Goldens require more cutting, but he also requires more frequent bathing due to his longer and silkier coat. The normal dog needs a bath every 4-6 weeks. To keep the Goldens looking healthy, he would require a bath every 4 weeks and the Labrador every 6 weeks.
If he becomes dirty in between baths, then utilize doggy wipes, dry shampoo, and doggy perfume to retain them looking fresh.
Golden Retriever vs Labrador Price
Always use a trustworthy breeder for these prevalent breeds because they will treat these dogs right. There is a variation in price between these two breeds, the Golden Retriever will cost anywhere from $1,000 to $1,300, and the Labrador Retriever will cost around $1,000 to $2,500.
Remember, purchasing from infamous breeders means that you have a greater chance of getting an unhealthy dog. If you do purchase a puppy, be guaranteed to ask for their suggested health certificates, as this confirms that you are more expected to have a healthy puppy. This is mainly significant for the Golden Retriever, given their greater chances of cancer.
FAQs: How to differentiate between golden retriever and Labrador
Which dog is better, Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever?
They are both good-natured and loving family pups who have been preferred all over the world as one of great family pets. Alternatively, they are both dissimilar in their energy levels. Goldens can be more comfortable rather than Labrador Retrievers.
How to differentiate between a Labrador retriever and a retriever Labrador?
They are the same dog breed, but some individuals refer to them by their shortened designations. Labrador retriever is the complete name, which basically comes from the point that the clever puppies can retrieve objects.
What are the 3 categories of Labrador retrievers?
There’s a difference in look between field Labs as well as conformation dogs. They come in 3 different colors: chocolate, yellow, as well as black.
Is the Labrador retriever the same as the Lab dog?
There is no difference among a Labrador, Labrador Retriever, and a Lab dog. They are all the same dog breed, but some individuals refer to them by their names.
Final Verdict: How to differentiate between golden retriever and Labrador
The Golden Retriever, as well as the Labrador Retriever are both amongst the most prevalent dog choices all over the world. With even-tempered temperaments, it’s easy to realize why. Both breeds are friendly and great fun. Both of them love nothing more than to go discovering, play on the lawn, or squish in the local lake.
They are very intelligent and are keen to gratify their people. This usually means they are well-mannered dogs who desire to be around. The key difference between the Lab and the Golden dog is that the latter is somewhat calmer in nature. They will choose a more calm and comfortable environment after everyday exercise.
The Labrador is much more robust and energetic. They will function superior in a livelier home with persistent stimulation. Both breeds are a great family addition. Notwithstanding, if you are in search of a Golden Retriever or fishing for a Lab, you are assured to come home with a pooch that everyone loves. Don’t overlook that if you can’t choose one of them, you can always have a mix of these two dog breeds.
