Dutch Smoushond vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Dutch Smoushond and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Dutch Smoushond
Cheerful, affectionate, and lively, this small companion thrives on family life. Distinct shaggy coat and playful spirit make every day brighter.
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
9–11 kg
Harsh, wiry
12–15 years
8–10 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.
Dutch Smoushond
Warm and sociable with people and pets
Quick learner, responds well to training
Lively, enjoys regular walks and activity
Likes games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living situations
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
Dutch Smoushond
Cataracts, patellar luxation
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Dutch Smoushond
Good starter breed
Responsive and eager to please, Dutch Smoushonds adapt well to novice owners.
Suitable with exercise
They can live in apartments if given regular outdoor activity and mental stimulation.
Enjoys activity
This breed thrives in households with daily exercise and engaging playtime.
Child-friendly
Dutch Smoushonds are gentle and patient with respectful young children.
Gets along well
They generally coexist peacefully with other dogs and pets when socialized early.
Not recommended
They dislike being left alone and may develop separation anxiety if left for long 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
Dutch Smoushond
- Friendly with children and other dogs
- Eager to please and trainable
- Low grooming requirements due to wiry coat
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Alert and makes a good watchdog
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
Dutch Smoushond
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Needs regular mental stimulation
- May develop separation anxiety if left alone
- Prone to barking when bored
- Limited availability outside the Netherlands
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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