Leonberger vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Leonberger and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Leonberger
Massive, gentle, and loyal, the Leonberger stands out for its calm nature and impressive presence. This affectionate giant thrives as a devoted family companion and watchdog.
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
Large
59–77 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
8–9 years
45–61 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.
Leonberger
Affectionate with family and gentle with children
Learns commands quickly and responds to training
Moderate exercise needs, not overly energetic
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to new people and environments
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
Leonberger
Hip dysplasia, osteosarcoma
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Leonberger
Challenging for beginners
Their size and training needs can overwhelm inexperienced owners
Not apartment suited
Large size and exercise needs make them a poor fit for apartments
Highly suitable
They enjoy regular activity and outdoor adventures with active families
Excellent companion
Gentle, patient temperament makes them reliable around young children
Generally compatible
Usually get along with other pets when socialized early
Not recommended
They dislike being left alone and may develop separation anxiety
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
Leonberger
- Gentle with children and family members
- Strong swimming ability and water rescue skills
- Loyal and devoted to owners
- Calm and stable temperament in the home
- Good tolerance for cold weather
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
Leonberger
- Requires extensive grooming to manage shedding
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs significant daily exercise and space
- Shorter average lifespan compared to other breeds
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