Finnish Lapphund vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Finnish Lapphund and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Finnish Lapphund
A lively, intelligent companion with a gentle spirit and a strong herding instinct. Bred to work in harsh climates, thrives as a playful and affectionate family dog.
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
15–24 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
12–15 years
15–22 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.
Finnish Lapphund
Gentle and sociable with people and dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
Active breed enjoys regular physical exercise
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
Finnish Lapphund
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Finnish Lapphund
Good starter breed
Finnish Lapphunds are friendly, trainable, and responsive to gentle guidance.
Needs more space
They are energetic and need regular activity beyond what most apartments provide.
Highly suitable
Their stamina and playful nature suit homes with active lifestyles.
Very family-friendly
Gentle, patient, and affectionate with children, making them a solid family choice.
Gets along well
They usually coexist peacefully with other pets due to their social temperament.
Prone to loneliness
Finnish Lapphunds may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long 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
Finnish Lapphund
- Friendly and gentle with children
- Highly adaptable to various living environments
- Responsive to consistent positive training methods
- Thick double coat provides weather protection
- Generally sociable with other dogs and pets
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
Finnish Lapphund
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Requires regular grooming due to dense coat
- Can be reserved with strangers initially
- Needs daily exercise to prevent boredom
- May bark frequently if not properly trained
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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