Estrela Mountain Dog vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Estrela Mountain Dog and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Estrela Mountain Dog
Loyal, protective, and calm, this breed thrives as a devoted family guardian. Its thick, weather-resistant coat and watchful nature make it well-suited for active homes.
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
Large
40–50 kg
Double coat, dense
10–14 years
30–40 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.
Estrela Mountain Dog
Generally reserved, warms up to familiar people
Quick to learn, responsive to commands
Moderate activity, enjoys daily exercise
Not highly playful, prefers purposeful activity
Adjusts with effort, prefers stable 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
Estrela Mountain Dog
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Estrela Mountain Dog
Challenging for novices
Needs experienced handler due to independent nature and size
Not suitable
Requires space and dislikes confined indoor living
Moderately suitable
Enjoys activity but not overly energetic or playful
Cautious fit
Protective instincts may overwhelm small children without careful supervision
Needs careful introductions
May be territorial with other pets unless socialized early
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone and prone to separation anxiety
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
Estrela Mountain Dog
- Loyal guardian instincts toward family
- Excellent livestock protector abilities
- Calm and steady temperament with owners
- Tolerant of cold and harsh climates
- Strong bond with children and household
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
Estrela Mountain Dog
- Prone to stubbornness during training sessions
- Needs extensive early socialization
- Can be wary or aloof with strangers
- Requires large, secure outdoor space
- Heavy seasonal shedding and grooming needs
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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