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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
Japan

Japanese Spitz

Non-Sporting Group
Small

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
Canada

Labrador Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

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

Size:

Small

Male:

5–10 kg

Coat:

Double coat, dense

Lifespan:

12–16 years

Female:

5–9 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Large

Male:

29–36 kg

Coat:

Short double coat, water-resistant

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–32 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Japanese Spitz

Friendliness
5/5

Affectionate and sociable with people and children

Intelligence
4/5

Quick to learn basic commands and routines

Energy Level
4/5

Needs daily activity but not hyperactive

Playfulness
5/5

Enjoys interactive games and family activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various home environments

Labrador Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with people and animals

Intelligence
5/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
5/5

High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
5/5

Adjusts easily to new situations and environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Japanese Spitz

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Quick learner
Climate tolerance:
Tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Patellar luxation, runny eyes

Labrador Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Japanese Spitz

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Easy to train and eager to please, suitable for new dog owners.

Apartment Living
5/5

Highly suitable

Adapts well to smaller spaces and moderate exercise needs.

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Moderately suitable

Enjoys play but doesn’t require intense activity every day.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Gentle and patient with children, generally safe for families.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Good fit

Gets along with other pets if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

Dislikes being left alone and prone to separation anxiety.

Labrador Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.

Kids
5/5

Highly suitable

Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.

Being Left Alone
2/5

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

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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