Japanese Spitz vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Japanese Spitz and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
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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.

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
5–10 kg
Double coat, dense
12–16 years
5–9 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.
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
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
Japanese Spitz
Patellar luxation, runny eyes
Labrador 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.
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
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
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
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
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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