Italian Greyhound vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Italian Greyhound and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Italian Greyhound
Graceful and affectionate, this slender breed loves to snuggle and form close bonds with its people. Quick and agile, the Italian Greyhound thrives as a gentle, loyal companion.
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
5–6 kg
Short, fine
13–15 years
4.5–5.5 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.
Italian Greyhound
Enjoys people, affectionate with family and friends
Quick learner, responsive to gentle training
Active indoors, enjoys regular exercise and walks
Likes interactive play, enjoys chasing toys
Sensitive to change, prefers familiar routines
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
Italian Greyhound
Dental disease, patellar luxation
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Italian Greyhound
Good option
Gentle and easy to train with patience, but can be sensitive to harsh handling.
Excellent fit
Small size and quiet nature make them well-suited for apartments.
Moderately suitable
Enjoys short bursts of play but may not keep up with highly active owners.
Caution advised
Fragile build and sensitivity make them less ideal for rowdy young children.
Usually compatible
Generally gets along with other pets if socialized early.
Not recommended
Prone to separation anxiety and does poorly when left alone 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
Italian Greyhound
- Affectionate with family members
- Compact size suits apartment living
- Generally quiet and not prone to barking
- Quick learners with positive reinforcement
- Low grooming needs due to short 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
Italian Greyhound
- Prone to fragile bones and injuries
- Sensitive to cold temperatures
- Can be timid with strangers
- Difficult to housebreak consistently
- High prey drive may trigger chasing
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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