What Is The Difference Between Labrador Retriever And Golden Retriever?

Are you in search of a dog that is level-headed, lovable, and will be the perfect companion for yourself and your family?

The best choice for any American home is a Retriever. But, there lies a serious confusion here, how do you know which one is golden and which one is a Labrador? From sharing incredibly similar looks to high levels of intelligence, goofy personality, and athleticism - it is quite impossible at times to distinguish one from the other.

However, before you plan to adopt one here is everything you need to know.

The appearance of the dogs

These are the similarities found in both of them -

• Height is within 22-24 inches
• Long tails
• Folded ears
• Enthusiastic and happy expressions
• Love for water
• Webbed feet
• Soft mouths

The traits that can be only found in golden retrievers are -

• Water repellent coats
• The always 'smiling’ expression
• Longer snout
• Wavy or flat coats

These are the traits that Labrador Retrievers display -

• A muscular build
• Non-tapered and medium muzzle
• Water resistant coat
• Broadhead
• Pronounced eyebrows

The life expectancy of the dogs

Golden retrievers live for an average of 10 to 13 years in total whereas Labrador Retrievers have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.

The weight of the dogs

• Golden Retrievers weigh somewhere between 55 lbs to 75 lbs
• Labrador Retrievers weigh around 65 lbs to 80 lbs

How do they differ cost wise?

Labrador Retrievers are slightly more expensive than the Golden Retrievers. Though prices always vary, and you can always adopt one for free from rescue centers, the average price of a Labrador Retriever is somewhere between $900 - $1500 and the Golden Retriever costs between $800 to $1200.

Which color do they come in?

• Golden Retriever - They come in a wide variety of colors. From almost red to creamy blonde you can find them in every shade.

• Labrador Retriever - They arrive basically in three colors - black, yellow, and chocolate.

What kind of health issues do they suffer from?

There are certain health problems that both share

1. Ear infection
2. Cancer
3. Hip dysplasia
4. Obesity

The problems that are associated with Labradors only -

• Malformation of elbows and knees
• Laryngeal Paralysis
• Entropion

Health problems that affect the Golden Retrievers -

• Skin issues
• Seizures
• Elbow dysplasia

No matter which one you bring home remember they both are family-centric dogs and are a favorite of all.

Tip: For some cool labrador print products, check our unique Labra collection.

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