Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher
Alert, loyal, and full of energy, this breed thrives as a vigilant family guardian and spirited companion. Distinctive for its expressive face and affectionate devotion to loved ones.
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
12–18 kg
Short coat, dense
12–14 years
10–16 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.
Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher
Wary with strangers, affectionate with family members
Quick learner, responds well to training
Active breed, needs regular daily exercise
Enjoys play but can be serious
Adapts moderately 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
Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher
Hip dysplasia, eye disorders
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher
Moderately suitable
Needs confident handling and consistent training from the start
Not ideal
Requires space and frequent exercise, not suited to confined indoor living
Great choice
Thrives with active families who can provide daily mental and physical stimulation
Generally suitable
Patient and gentle but supervision with small children is important
Possible with care
May show territorial instincts, early socialization with other pets is important
Prone to stress
Dislikes being left alone and may develop anxiety or destructive behaviors
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
Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher
- Vigilant watchdog instincts
- Loyal to family members
- Adaptable to rural environments
- Moderate exercise requirements
- Strong territorial awareness
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
Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher
- Wary of strangers and visitors
- May chase small animals
- Can be stubborn during training
- Needs consistent socialization
- Prone to excessive barking
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