Barbet vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Barbet and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Barbet
Affectionate, intelligent, and lively, the Barbet thrives as a loyal family companion. This curly-coated water dog brings joy with its playful spirit and gentle disposition.
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
Medium
18–28 kg
Curly, dense
12–14 years
14–23 kg
Moderately active
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.
Barbet
Affectionate and sociable with people and dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
Needs regular activity and outdoor exercise
Enjoys games, water, and interactive play
Adjusts well to different home environments
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
Barbet
Hip dysplasia, epilepsy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Barbet
Good choice
Barbets are friendly, trainable, and eager to please, making them manageable for beginners.
Somewhat suitable
They adapt to apartments but need daily activity and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for exercise suit active owners with outdoor lifestyles.
Highly suitable
Gentle, patient, and playful, Barbets are excellent with young children.
Very friendly
They are social and generally get along well with other pets.
Not ideal
Barbets dislike being alone and may develop separation anxiety if left for long hours.
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
Barbet
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Friendly and affectionate with families
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Low-shedding, curly coat reduces loose hair
- Good with children and other pets
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
Barbet
- Needs regular coat grooming and trimming
- Prone to ear infections due to hairy ears
- Requires daily mental and physical exercise
- Can become bored and destructive if unstimulated
- May be reserved with strangers at first
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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