Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Strong, loyal, and affectionate, this breed thrives as a devoted family companion and reliable watchdog. Distinctive tricolor markings add to its striking, sturdy presence.
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
Large
54–63 kg
Double coat, dense
8–11 years
48–54 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.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Warm and welcoming with family and strangers
Learns commands quickly, eager to please
Moderate exercise needs, not overly hyper
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts to change with some initial hesitation
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced training and strong leadership
Not apartment friendly
Large size and activity needs make apartments unsuitable
Highly suitable
Thrives with daily exercise and outdoor activities
Very family friendly
Gentle nature and patience suit homes with young children
Generally compatible
Usually gets along if socialized early with other pets
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone and may develop separation anxiety
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Loyal to family and children
- Strong work ethic and stamina
- Tolerates cold weather very well
- Generally good-natured and calm
- Effective watchdog with alert instincts
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- Needs ample daily exercise and space
- Can be stubborn during training
- High risk for bloat and gastric issues
- Sheds heavily, especially seasonally
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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