Norwegian Buhund vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Norwegian Buhund and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Norwegian Buhund
Energetic, intelligent, and affectionate, this spitz breed thrives on companionship and activity. Always eager to please, it brings cheer and loyalty to any household.
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
Medium
14–18 kg
Double coat, weather-resistant
12–15 years
12–16 kg
High energy
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.
Norwegian Buhund
Affectionate with family and approachable with strangers
Quick learner and responds well to training
Very active and requires regular exercise
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various 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
Norwegian Buhund
Hip dysplasia, cataracts
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Norwegian Buhund
Good option
Intelligent and eager, but may challenge inexperienced owners with their independence
Needs space
High energy and vocal nature can make small apartments challenging
Perfect match
Thrives with regular exercise and plenty of activities
Very suitable
Gentle and playful, usually patient with young children
Gets along well
Tends to be sociable with other pets if properly introduced
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone, prone to boredom and destructive behavior
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
Norwegian Buhund
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Very energetic and playful
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Good watchdog with alert nature
- Generally healthy and robust breed
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
Norwegian Buhund
- Needs extensive daily physical exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Can be vocal and bark frequently
- May herd children or other pets
- Requires regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom
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