Finnish Spitz vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Finnish Spitz and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Finnish Spitz
Lively, alert, and affectionate, Finnish Spitz are known for their fox-like appearance and cheerful personality. This vocal, spirited breed thrives as an energetic family companion.
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
12–16 kg
Double coat, dense
12–15 years
7–10 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.
Finnish Spitz
Affectionate with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, needs regular vigorous exercise
Loves games, enjoys interactive playtime
Adjusts moderately to changes in environment
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 Spitz
Hip dysplasia, epilepsy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Finnish Spitz
Moderately suitable
Needs patient, consistent training and early socialization to thrive
Not ideal
Tends to bark frequently and needs room to exercise daily
Great choice
Energetic and enjoys regular activity, making them suitable for active owners
Good fit
Generally gentle but supervision is needed as they can be excitable around small children
Needs supervision
May be territorial, especially with other dogs, unless socialized early
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
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 Spitz
- Alert and reliable watchdog instincts
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- High endurance for outdoor activities
- Generally clean and low odor coat
- Strong hunting and tracking abilities
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 Spitz
- Prone to frequent vocalization and barking
- Can be independent and stubborn to train
- Needs daily mental and physical exercise
- May be reserved with strangers
- High prey drive toward small animals
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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