German Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between German Spaniel and Labrador 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.
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
18–25 kg
Dense, slightly wavy
12–14 years
16–22 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.
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
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
German Spaniel
Hip dysplasia, ear infections
Labrador 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
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
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
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
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
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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