Havanese vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Havanese and Labrador 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.
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
Small
4.5–7.3 kg
Long, silky
14–16 years
3.6–6.8 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.
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
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
Havanese
Cataracts, patellar luxation
Labrador 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
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
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
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
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
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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