Briard vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Briard and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Briard
Loyal, intelligent, and spirited, this breed thrives as both a vigilant guardian and affectionate family companion. Its long, flowing coat and lively personality stand out in any home.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Large
34–41 kg
Long, slightly wavy
10–12 years
27–34 kg
High energy
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Briard
Affectionate with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Enjoys interactive games and family playtime
May struggle with major routine or environment changes
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Briard
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Briard
Challenging for beginners
Briards require experienced handling and consistent training to thrive
Not ideal
Briards need space and plenty of exercise, making small apartments unsuitable
Excellent companion
Their high energy and stamina make them great for active families
Good with supervision
Briards are protective and gentle but need guidance around small children
Generally compatible
Early socialization helps Briards coexist with other pets peacefully
Prone to separation anxiety
Briards dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Briard
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Strong natural herding instincts
- Highly intelligent and trainable
- Protective without being aggressive
- Good stamina for outdoor activities
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Briard
- Requires extensive daily exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Needs regular, thorough grooming
- Can be reserved with strangers
- May attempt to herd children or pets
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
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