What is the difference between a Labrador Retriever and a Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever and the Labrador Retriever are part of the same cynological group, and sometimes it is not easy for an unprepared person to distinguish them – their appearance is quite similar. The word “retriever”, which is available in the full names of both breeds, is also misleading. The main differences are in this article.

Origin

How is a Labrador different from a Retriever? Both dogs are originally from the UK, but from different regions. Labradors arrived with fishermen from the island of Newfoundland, while retrievers were bred by Lord Tweedmouth in Scotland. He spent a lot of time to develop a breed with golden hair that stands out against the background of peat.

Due to their island origin, Labradors were able to handle not only downed game, but also caught fish. Retrievers were exclusively assistant hunters.

Nowadays, retrievers rarely take part in hunting. Dogs are now used as service dogs. They make good guides, nurses, rescuers. They have an excellent sense of smell – they are able to detect drug couriers.

Retriever and Labrador – what’s the difference

The similarity of dogs in appearance is simply amazing – both dogs are large, weight and height differ slightly. Distinctive features of both breeds are a wide forehead, hanging ears, a peculiar bite and a mouth that does not damage the prey being carried. But there are differences in the appearance of these dogs, allowing at least somehow to separate them from each other. 

The Golden Retriever looks light and sophisticated, while the Labrador looks more massive. The coat of Labradors is short and straight, in retrievers it is longer, it can be wavy. Labradors come in three colors: black, brown and fawn. Golden Retrievers, as the name suggests, can only be golden in color. The tail of a retriever is fluffy, resembling a feather; the tail of a Labrador is thick, tapering towards the end.

Labrador and Retriever – differences in character

Retrievers, due to their aristocratic origin, are distinguished by calmness, poise and unobtrusiveness. They feel the mood of the owner and will not bother him if he wants to be alone. The Retriever carefully considers his actions and soberly assesses his strength.

Labradors are cheerful, playful and cheerful, and always full of energy. Inherent in them and loving – they love everyone around. This can play a cruel joke on them if they trust a bad person. From an overabundance of feelings, a Labrador can inadvertently push a person, jump on him with a run, splash saliva from head to toe.

When choosing a pet for a family with young children, you should definitely prefer a golden retriever to a Labrador – he is more accurate and will not hurt the child in a fit of joy. Nevertheless, both dogs love children and, with proper upbringing, will become good nannies for them.

Content and education

Due to their excessive activity, the Labrador is less suitable for keeping in an apartment – he needs constant physical and mental activity. Otherwise, he is able to destroy the entire dwelling. The Golden Retriever is calmer and does not need as much exercise.

Both dogs cannot be kept on a leash or in an aviary – communication with people is very important for them. They lend themselves well to training and readily follow the commands of the owner.

When choosing between two breeds, it is worth giving preference to a breed that is more suitable in terms of temperament. Nevertheless, any of the retrievers will make a great friend.