Beagle vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Beagle and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Beagle
A cheerful, curious breed with an excellent nose and a love for adventure. Always eager to play, Beagles shine as affectionate companions in active households.
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
10–11 kg
Short, dense
12–15 years
9–10 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.
Beagle
Outgoing and sociable with people and dogs
Quick to learn but easily distracted by scents
Highly energetic and active throughout the day
Loves games and interactive play sessions
Adjusts well to new settings and routines
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
Beagle
Epilepsy, hypothyroidism
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Beagle
Good starter breed
Friendly nature and moderate needs suit new dog owners
Needs daily walks
Moderate energy and tendency to bark may challenge apartment life
Highly suitable
Enjoys activities and play, thriving in active environments
Very friendly
Gentle, playful, and generally patient with young children
Gets along well
Social disposition makes Beagles comfortable with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes solitude and can become destructive if left alone too long
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
Beagle
- Friendly with children and families
- Excellent scent detection abilities
- Generally good with other dogs
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Playful and energetic companion
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
Beagle
- Prone to excessive barking or howling
- High tendency to follow scents outdoors
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
- Requires regular exercise to prevent boredom
- Likely to escape or roam if unsupervised
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
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience