Australian Silky Terrier vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Australian Silky Terrier and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Australian Silky Terrier
Lively, intelligent, and affectionate, this small companion thrives on attention and interactive play. Silky, blue-and-tan coats add charm to an alert and spirited personality.
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
3.5–4.5 kg
Straight, silky
12–15 years
3.5–4.5 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.
Australian Silky Terrier
Generally sociable with family and familiar people
Quick to learn new commands and tricks
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Enjoys interactive games and playful activities
Adjusts moderately to changes in routine
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
Australian Silky Terrier
Luxating patella, tracheal collapse
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Australian Silky Terrier
Good option
Easy to train and adaptable, though may require consistent boundaries and patience
Excellent fit
Small size and moderate exercise needs suit compact living spaces
Moderately suitable
Enjoys play and activity but does not require intense exercise
Caution advised
Can be snappy if handled roughly by very young children
Possible with supervision
Gets along with other pets if socialized early, but may chase small animals
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone and prone to 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
Australian Silky Terrier
- Alert and responsive watchdog
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Low-shedding, silky coat
- Intelligent and quick to learn commands
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
Australian Silky Terrier
- Prone to barking frequently
- Needs daily mental stimulation
- Can be stubborn during training
- Requires regular coat maintenance
- May chase small animals due to prey drive
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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