Coton de Tulear vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Coton de Tulear and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Coton de Tulear
A cheerful, affectionate companion with a cotton-like coat and lively spirit. Loves bonding with families and thrives on human attention and playful interaction.
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
4–6 kg
Long, cotton-like
14–16 years
3.5–5 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.
Coton de Tulear
Very affectionate and enjoys companionship with people
Learns commands quickly and easily understands routines
Moderate activity needs; enjoys short daily walks
Loves interactive games and playful activities
Adjusts well to new environments and routines
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
Coton de Tulear
Patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Coton de Tulear
Highly suitable
Easygoing temperament and trainability make them manageable for first-time owners.
Perfect fit
Small size and quiet nature suit apartment environments well.
Moderately suitable
Enjoy play but may not match very high activity levels.
Very friendly
Gentle and tolerant with children when properly socialized.
Good companion
Usually gets along with other pets if introduced appropriately.
Prone to anxiety
Does not tolerate being left alone for extended periods.
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
Coton de Tulear
- Affectionate with family members
- Generally good with children
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Eager to please and trainable
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
Coton de Tulear
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Requires regular coat grooming and maintenance
- Can be reserved with strangers
- May bark frequently if not trained
- Sensitive to harsh corrections
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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