Keeshond vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Keeshond and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Keeshond
Lively, affectionate, and always eager to please, the Keeshond thrives as a loyal family companion. Famous for their plush double coat and expressive “spectacles.”
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
15–20 kg
Double coat, thick undercoat
12–15 years
14–18 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.
Keeshond
Outgoing and affectionate with family and strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily walks
Enjoys games and interaction with people
Adjusts well to different living 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
Keeshond
Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Keeshond
Great choice
Eager to please and generally easy to train for new dog owners
Very suitable
Adapts well to smaller living spaces with daily exercise and attention
Good companion
Enjoys activity but does not require intense exercise routines
Family-friendly
Gentle and playful nature makes them good with young children
Gets along well
Usually sociable with other household pets when properly introduced
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop separation issues
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
Keeshond
- Loyal family companion
- Alert and reliable watchdog
- Good with children and other pets
- Adapts well to various living spaces
- Minimal doggy odor and clean habits
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
Keeshond
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Requires regular grooming and brushing
- May bark excessively if not trained
- Sensitive to heat and humidity
- Can be stubborn during obedience training
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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