Lakeland Terrier vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Lakeland Terrier and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds

Lakeland Terrier
Energetic, bold, and affectionate, this terrier thrives on adventure and play. Compact yet spirited, it makes a loyal companion for active families or individuals.

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
7–8 kg
Dense double coat, wiry texture
12–15 years
6.5–7.5 kg
High energy
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.
Lakeland Terrier
Generally sociable, enjoys human and canine company
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, thrives with regular exercise
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to new environments and routines
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
Lakeland Terrier
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, eye disorders
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Lakeland Terrier
Moderately suitable
Needs consistent training and patience from inexperienced owners
Decent fit
Small size suits apartments but needs daily exercise and mental stimulation
Highly suitable
Energetic nature matches well with active individuals or families
Supervised only
Playful but may be too boisterous for very young children
Cautious fit
May show dominance or chase instincts with other pets
Not ideal
Dislikes being left alone and can develop separation anxiety or boredom issues
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
Lakeland Terrier
- Alert watchdog with keen senses
- Energetic and enjoys active play
- Generally friendly with people
- Low-shedding, wiry coat requires minimal vacuuming
- Adaptable to rural or urban living
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
Lakeland Terrier
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
- Prone to chasing small animals
- Needs consistent mental stimulation
- May bark excessively without guidance
- Regular grooming to prevent matting
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.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience