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Pyrenean Mastiff vs Labrador Retriever

Discover the differences between Pyrenean Mastiff and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Pyrenean Mastiff
Spain

Pyrenean Mastiff

Working Group
Large

Gentle, loyal, and calm, this massive guardian thrives in family settings. Known for patience and devotion, the Pyrenean Mastiff forms strong bonds with loved ones.

Labrador Retriever
Canada

Labrador Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

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

Size:

Large

Male:

70–100 kg

Coat:

Dense double coat, straight

Lifespan:

8–12 years

Female:

60–90 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Large

Male:

29–36 kg

Coat:

Short double coat, water-resistant

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–32 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Pyrenean Mastiff

Friendliness
5/5

Gentle and affectionate with family and children

Intelligence
4/5

Learns commands and routines with consistency

Energy Level
2/5

Calm, prefers lounging over vigorous activity

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys gentle play but not overly rambunctious

Adaptability
3/5

Adjusts to change with patience and calmness

Labrador Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with people and animals

Intelligence
5/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
5/5

High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
5/5

Adjusts easily to new situations and environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Pyrenean Mastiff

Grooming:
High grooming needs (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, entropion

Labrador Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Pyrenean Mastiff

First-time Owner
2/5

Challenging for novices

Their size and independence can overwhelm inexperienced owners

Apartment Living
1/5

Not suitable

Large size and need for space make apartments uncomfortable

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Moderately suitable

Enjoy outdoor activities but not extremely energetic

Kids
5/5

Great with children

Gentle and patient nature suits families with young kids

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Typically calm and can coexist with other pets when socialized early

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

Dislike being alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits

Labrador Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.

Kids
5/5

Highly suitable

Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.

Being Left Alone
2/5

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

Pyrenean Mastiff

  • Gentle with children and family members
  • Strong protective instincts against threats
  • Tolerant of other household animals
  • Calm and patient indoor temperament
  • Adaptable to cold weather conditions

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

Pyrenean Mastiff

  • Requires extensive space due to size
  • Prone to stubborn or independent behavior
  • Heavy seasonal shedding and grooming needs
  • High food and maintenance costs
  • May be wary of unfamiliar people

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.

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