Brittany Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Brittany Spaniel and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds

Brittany Spaniel
Energetic, affectionate, and eager to please, this breed thrives on companionship and adventure. Compact and athletic, Brittany Spaniel excels as both an upland bird dog and playful family friend.

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
Medium
14–18 kg
Dense, flat or wavy
12–14 years
13–17 kg
High energy
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.
Brittany Spaniel
Outgoing and affectionate with people and pets
Quick learner, responds well to training
Always active, needs regular exercise
Loves games, enjoys interactive 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
Brittany Spaniel
Hip dysplasia, epilepsy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Brittany Spaniel
Good option
Eager to please and responsive, but needs consistent exercise and training
Needs space
High energy and frequent barking can be challenging in small apartments
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners and enjoys outdoor activities and exercise
Very friendly
Gentle, playful, and adaptable with children when supervised
Generally suitable
Usually sociable with other pets if properly socialized from an early age
Not ideal
Dislikes being alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors
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
Brittany Spaniel
- Energetic and enthusiastic during outdoor activities
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent nose and instinct for hunting
- Generally friendly with people and children
- Medium size makes them adaptable to homes
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
Brittany Spaniel
- Needs substantial daily physical exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Can become destructive when understimulated
- High prey drive may chase small animals
- Regular grooming required for shedding and mats
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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