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

Lapponian Shepherd
Loyal, alert, and adaptable, this hardworking breed thrives in active households and enjoys being part of daily routines. Well-suited for families, the Lapponian Shepherd forms strong bonds and excels as a companion.

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
Medium
30–35 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
10–14 years
25–30 kg
Moderately active
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.
Lapponian Shepherd
Generally sociable with family and familiar people
Quick learner, responds well to training
Enjoys activity and regular outdoor exercise
Likes games but not overly boisterous
Adjusts well to different 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
Lapponian Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, eye problems
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Lapponian Shepherd
Challenging for novices
Requires experienced handling and consistent training
Not ideal
Needs space and regular exercise, may become restless in small apartments
Excellent match
Thrives with active owners and frequent outdoor activities
Good companion
Generally gentle but supervision is advised due to herding instincts
Generally compatible
Can get along with other pets if well-socialized early
Not recommended
Struggles with long periods alone and may develop behavioral 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
Lapponian Shepherd
- Loyal to family and familiar people
- Good endurance for active lifestyles
- Responsive to consistent, fair training
- Naturally alert and protective instincts
- Adaptable to various weather conditions
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
Lapponian Shepherd
- Needs significant daily physical exercise
- Can be reserved with strangers
- High prey drive may emerge outdoors
- Prone to boredom without mental stimulation
- Thick double coat requires regular grooming
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
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