Bearded Collie vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Bearded Collie and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Bearded Collie
Lively, affectionate, and always ready for fun, this energetic herding breed thrives in active homes. Shaggy coats and playful personalities make every day more joyful.
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
18–27 kg
Double coat, long and shaggy
12–14 years
18–25 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.
Bearded Collie
Outgoing with people and other dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, needs daily exercise
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts fairly well to new situations
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
Bearded Collie
Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Bearded Collie
Good with guidance
Needs consistent training and grooming, can be a handful for beginners
Not ideal
Needs ample space and regular exercise, may become restless in small apartments
Perfect fit
Thrives with active families who enjoy outdoor activities and daily exercise
Very friendly
Patient and playful, generally gentle with young children in the household
Highly suitable
Usually sociable, adapts well to homes with other dogs and pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods, can develop separation stress
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
Bearded Collie
- Highly social and people-oriented
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Strong herding instincts and intelligence
- Generally good with children and pets
- Resilient and energetic outdoor 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
Bearded Collie
- Requires extensive daily exercise and activity
- Prone to matting and coat maintenance needs
- Can become bored without mental stimulation
- May bark excessively if under-stimulated
- Sensitive to harsh training methods
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