Differences between Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers

WEIGHT/BUILD

Golden Retrievers tend to be a bit heavier in average weight than Labrador Retrievers. This is because the Golden Retriever is not known for being as energetic as a Labrador. Golden Retrievers are also much more likely to become overweight, due to their lower activity level. A Labrador Retriever’s average mature height is slightly higher than the Golden Retriever, due to a slightly different bone structure. Labrador Retrievers tend to have a more athletic build than Golden Retrievers, having a slightly higher average percentage of muscle mass.

FUR TYPE AND COLOR

A Labrador Retriever’s fur is special, consisting of two separate layers. A Labrador’s coat has a soft, thick under-layer, which insulates the Labrador from variant temperature conditions. The outer layer of a Labrador’s coat is oily, coarse, and is the reason that a Labrador’s fur is extremely water resistant. Golden Retrievers generally have long, thick fur, that is not quite as resistant to moisture as the Labrador Retriever’s fur.

Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers each have different types of fur colors that are specific to their breed. Labrador Retrievers are usually Yellow, Chocolate, or Black. Occasionally, certain color variations such as Silver, Charcoal or Gray are possible, though this is rare. The Golden Retriever’s fur can range from a reddish brown to a light golden color, depending on genetic traits. Generally, however, a Golden Retriever’s fur is a mid-range Golden color. Both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers do have instances of “mismarked” fur, which refers to odd patches or stripes of color in purebred dogs.

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Though both the Golden Retriever and the Labrador Retriever can be active breeds, the Labrador Retriever tends to have a more energetic temperament than Golden Retrievers. Also, the Labrador Retriever generally has a more athletic build than a Golden Retriever, accumulating a higher percentage of muscle tissue. This also helps the Labrador Retriever have a slightly higher energy level than a Golden Retriever.

TEMPERAMENT

Both Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are well-known for having a wonderful temperament. However, there are a few key differences. While a Labrador Retriever is more inclined to be energetic, active, and enthusiastic, the Golden Retriever is more likely to be relaxed. A Golden Retriever’s nature is more laid-back than a Labrador’s, which means that they are less likely to become hyperactive.

GROOMING

The Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever are both known for a moderately high amount of shedding. However, due to the Golden Retriever having a long coat of fur, additional grooming attention is required. Golden Retrievers are much more prone to fur mats (dense, tangled portions of fur that create “lumps” in the coat), and ideally should be groomed on a daily basis. Golden Retrievers are also more prone to dry skin, as a high amount of skin oils are required to keep their coat properly cared for. Labrador Retrievers, on the other hand, should be groomed 2-3 times per week, except during periods of excessive shedding (usually in the spring and fall).