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Dogue de Bordeaux vs Labrador Retriever

Discover the differences between Dogue de Bordeaux and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Dogue de Bordeaux
France

Dogue de Bordeaux

Working Group
Large

Powerful yet affectionate, this loyal guardian forms deep bonds with family. Calm and steady, the Dogue de Bordeaux thrives as a devoted companion and protector.

Labrador Retriever
Canada

Labrador Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

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

Size:

Large

Male:

50–68 kg

Coat:

Short, fine

Lifespan:

5–8 years

Female:

45–60 kg

Energy:

Low activity needs

Size:

Large

Male:

29–36 kg

Coat:

Short double coat, water-resistant

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–32 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Dogue de Bordeaux

Friendliness
4/5

Affectionate and loyal with family members

Intelligence
3/5

Learns commands but can be stubborn

Energy Level
2/5

Low activity needs, prefers calm environments

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys gentle play, not overly boisterous

Adaptability
3/5

Adjusts moderately to new situations and homes

Labrador Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with people and animals

Intelligence
5/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
5/5

High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
5/5

Adjusts easily to new situations and environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Dogue de Bordeaux

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, heart disease

Labrador Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Dogue de Bordeaux

First-time Owner
2/5

Challenging for beginners

Needs experienced handling and training

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Large size and drooling make small spaces difficult

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Moderately suitable

Enjoys moderate exercise but not highly energetic

Kids
3/5

Good with supervision

Typically gentle but size can overwhelm small children

Multiple Pets
2/5

Cautious pairing

May be dominant or territorial with other pets

Being Left Alone
1/5

Poor fit

Dislikes being left alone and prone to separation anxiety

Labrador Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.

Kids
5/5

Highly suitable

Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.

Being Left Alone
2/5

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

Dogue de Bordeaux

  • Loyal to family members
  • Strong protective instincts
  • Calm and gentle with children
  • Responds well to consistent training
  • Low grooming requirements

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

Dogue de Bordeaux

  • Prone to drooling and snoring
  • Short lifespan compared to other breeds
  • Needs careful socialization with strangers
  • Sensitive to heat and humidity
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions

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?

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