King Charles Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between King Charles Spaniel and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
King Charles Spaniel
Charming, affectionate, and gentle, this breed loves close companionship and adapts well to quiet or active homes. Delightful expressive eyes and a sweet temperament make every day brighter.
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
5.9–8.2 kg
Silky, straight
9–14 years
5.9–8.2 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.
King Charles Spaniel
Affectionate with people and other animals
Learns commands and routines fairly quickly
Enjoys activity but not overly energetic
Likes interactive games and gentle play
Adjusts well to new environments and 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
King Charles Spaniel
Heart disease, ear infections
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
King Charles Spaniel
Great choice
Gentle nature and easygoing temperament make them suitable for novice owners
Perfect fit
Small size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment environments well
Moderately suitable
Enjoy playtime but may struggle with very high activity levels
Very friendly
Patient and affectionate with young children, but supervision is still needed
Highly suitable
Generally sociable and adapts well to living with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislike being left alone 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
King Charles Spaniel
- Affectionate with family members
- Good with children and other pets
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Generally easy to train
- Moderate exercise requirements
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
King Charles Spaniel
- Prone to heart and eye problems
- Can develop separation anxiety
- Requires regular grooming and brushing
- Sensitive to heat and humidity
- May bark excessively if not trained
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.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience