German Spaniel vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between German Spaniel and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
German Spaniel
Energetic, loyal, and eager to please, this breed thrives on companionship and outdoor adventures. Their keen nose and friendly nature make them excellent family and hunting partners.
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
Medium
18–25 kg
Dense, slightly wavy
12–14 years
16–22 kg
High energy
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.
German Spaniel
Generally sociable and gentle with people and pets
Quick to learn and eager to please
Very active, needs lots of exercise
Enjoys interactive play and activities
Adjusts moderately to new environments
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
German Spaniel
Hip dysplasia, ear infections
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
German Spaniel
Moderate challenge
Needs consistent training and socialization, may overwhelm new owners
Not ideal
High energy and exercise needs make them unsuited for small spaces
Perfect fit
Thrives in active homes with plenty of outdoor activities and stimulation
Good companion
Generally gentle, but supervision is needed with small children
Usually friendly
Can live with other pets if socialized from a young age
Prone to anxiety
Does not cope well with being left alone for extended periods
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
German Spaniel
- Excellent scenting ability for tracking game
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Loyal and affectionate with family members
- Good stamina for long outdoor activities
- Adaptable to various hunting environments
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
German Spaniel
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent restlessness
- Can be reserved with strangers without early socialization
- Strong prey drive may challenge small pets
- Requires regular grooming due to dense coat
- May bark excessively if under-stimulated
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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