Havanese vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Havanese and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Havanese
A cheerful, affectionate, and playful breed with a silky, flowing coat. Thrives as a loving companion and brings joy with a gentle, outgoing personality.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Small
4.5–7.3 kg
Long, silky
14–16 years
3.6–6.8 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Havanese
Affectionate with people and other animals
Learns commands and routines quickly
Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily walks
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to new environments and changes
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Havanese
Cataracts, patellar luxation
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Havanese
Great choice
Easygoing nature and adaptability make Havanese manageable for new dog owners
Perfect fit
Small size and moderate energy suit apartments with limited space
Moderately suitable
Enjoys play but may tire quickly during intense activities
Excellent companion
Affectionate and gentle, making them safe playmates for young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and can develop separation issues
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Havanese
- Affectionate with family and children
- Adapts well to apartment living
- Generally sociable with other dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Havanese
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Requires frequent grooming and coat care
- Can be shy around unfamiliar people
- Sensitive to harsh training methods
- May develop nuisance barking if bored
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
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