Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Affectionate, gentle, and graceful, this small spaniel delights with its expressive eyes and loving nature. An ideal companion, always eager to please and quick to form close bonds.
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
Small
5.9–8.2 kg
Silky, medium-length
12–15 years
5.9–8.2 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.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Exceptionally sociable with people and other pets
Learns commands and routines fairly quickly
Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily outings
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living 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
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Mitral valve disease, syringomyelia
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Great choice
Easygoing temperament and manageable care needs make them suitable for new dog owners.
Highly suitable
Small size and calm nature adapt well to apartment living with daily walks.
Moderately suitable
Enjoy activity but may tire quickly and need moderate exercise.
Very friendly
Gentle and affectionate, typically patient with respectful young children.
Good fit
Usually sociable with other pets given proper introductions and supervision.
Prone to anxiety
Dislike being left alone and may develop separation anxiety if left for long hours.
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
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Affectionate and people-oriented temperament
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Gets along well with children and pets
- Eager to please and easy to train
- Enjoys both playtime and cuddling
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
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- High risk of heart and eye conditions
- Requires regular grooming for coat maintenance
- Can be prone to weight gain
- Sensitive to extreme heat and cold
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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