These two breeds belong to the same cynological group and share many similarities in appearance, so they are often confused. What's the difference between a retriever and a Labrador?
External differences between a retriever and a Labrador
Despite the fact that the weight and height of both breeds are almost the same, each dog has its own characteristics.
The main differences of the retriever:
- looks more elegant and lightweight;
- has long and wavy or straight hair both on the body and on the paws and neck, the undercoat is also quite thick;
- color golden;
- It has a tail with a suspension in the form of half a feather, which continues the line of the back and does not rise high.
There are six breeds of retrievers in the retriever group: the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, the Flat-Coated Retriever, the Curly-Coated Retriever, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, the Labrador Retriever, and the Golden Retriever. The last two are the most similar.
Scottish Lord Tweedmouth spent half his life to obtain representatives with the perfect golden color that stands out against the background of peat bogs.
Characteristics of the Labrador:
- appears more bulky due to its powerful skeleton;
- has a smooth, even coat, the length of which is no more than 5 cm. The hairs lie tightly against each other and look shiny, there is a good waterproof undercoat;
- There are three main types of color: black, fawn and brown;
- Their tail is thick and tapers to a point and can be raised when the dog is happy.
Labrador is translated from Portuguese as "worker" or "hard worker."
Both breeds originated in Great Britain, but in different kingdoms. They were actively used in hunting—retrieving game, retrieving fish from snares, and pulling nets and sleds.
Difference in character
Retrievers are calm, balanced, and aristocratic. They can be playful in moderation and won't pester an owner who's in a bad mood. The Labrador is the opposite: naive, simple-minded, full of energy and a desire to play. They are very affectionate and trusting, even with strangers.
Today, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers have been retrained as service dogs—they are the best guide dogs, caregivers, and rescuers; the dogs also work in customs and police work.
Which dog is better to get?
If you have a cramped apartment, choose a golden retriever. Their playful cousin is suitable for a more spacious home, but don't leave them alone for long periods of time and don't forget to take them for walks. Otherwise, they might destroy your house.
Both breeds are not suitable for keeping on a chain. If you want to train a dog, Labradors will be easier. Their golden brothers do not like unreasonable actions; they are used to thinking over and weighing decisions.
Labrador Retrievers are not suitable as guards or protectors - during breeding, aggression and bloodthirstiness were specifically suppressed so that the animals would not tear apart their prey.
If you have small children, choose a Golden Retriever. Both breeds are great with children, but a heavy dog, due to its agility, could accidentally hit or push a child.
The difference between a Labrador and a Golden Retriever on video
Both breeds get along well with people and make excellent companions. Choose the one that best suits your personality.
