American Toy Terrier vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between American Toy Terrier and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
American Toy Terrier
Lively, alert, and affectionate, this tiny companion thrives on attention and play. Compact yet confident, the American Toy Terrier is adaptable and forms strong family bonds.
Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Quick comparison
Small
2.5–3.6 kg
Short, smooth
12–15 years
2.3–3.2 kg
High energy
Large
29–36 kg
Short double coat, water-resistant
10–12 years
25–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
American Toy Terrier
Enjoys people, bonds closely with family members
Learns commands and routines quite quickly
Very active, loves frequent movement and activity
Enjoys games and interactive activities daily
Adjusts well to new homes and settings
Labrador Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
American Toy Terrier
Patellar luxation, dental issues
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
American Toy Terrier
Good option
Easy to train with clear guidance, but can be sensitive to mishandling
Excellent fit
Small size and moderate exercise needs suit compact living spaces well
Moderately suitable
Enjoys activity but may tire quickly during intense exercise sessions
Not ideal
Delicate build and sensitivity make them less suited for rough handling by toddlers
Possible match
Can adapt to other pets if introduced slowly and supervised closely
Prone to stress
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety
Labrador Retriever
Great choice
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Not ideal
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Perfect fit
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Very friendly
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Prone to anxiety
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
American Toy Terrier
- Alert watchdog with keen senses
- Energetic and playful companion
- Low grooming requirements due to short coat
- Strong loyalty to primary handler
- Quick learner with consistent training
Labrador Retriever
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
American Toy Terrier
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Fragile bones require gentle handling
- Can be wary of strangers and other dogs
- High prey drive may challenge small pets
- Sensitive to cold due to small size
Labrador Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
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