Japanese Spitz vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Japanese Spitz and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Japanese Spitz
Cheerful, affectionate, and always eager to please, this fluffy companion fits perfectly into family life. Renowned for its loyalty and playful spirit, it thrives on attention.
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
Small
5–10 kg
Double coat, dense
12–16 years
5–9 kg
Moderately active
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.
Japanese Spitz
Affectionate and sociable with people and children
Quick to learn basic commands and routines
Needs daily activity but not hyperactive
Enjoys interactive games and family activities
Adjusts well to various home 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
Japanese Spitz
Patellar luxation, runny eyes
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Japanese Spitz
Great choice
Easy to train and eager to please, suitable for new dog owners.
Highly suitable
Adapts well to smaller spaces and moderate exercise needs.
Moderately suitable
Enjoys play but doesn’t require intense activity every day.
Very friendly
Gentle and patient with children, generally safe for families.
Good fit
Gets along with other pets if socialized early.
Not ideal
Dislikes being left alone and prone to separation anxiety.
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
Japanese Spitz
- Affectionate with family members
- Usually friendly with children
- Generally adaptable to apartment living
- Alert and responsive watchdog
- Low doggy odor and minimal drooling
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
Japanese Spitz
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Sensitive to harsh training methods
- May be reserved with strangers
- Requires regular grooming to prevent matting
- Can be vocal and bark frequently
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?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
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