Otterhound vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Otterhound and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Otterhound
A playful, affectionate companion with a keen nose and a love for adventure. Famous for a shaggy coat and friendly, easygoing personality.
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
Large
34–52 kg
Harsh outer coat, dense undercoat
10–13 years
29–41 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.
Otterhound
Outgoing with people and other dogs
Learns at a moderate, steady pace
Requires daily activity and exercise
Enjoys games and interactive play
Adjusts with some difficulty to changes
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
Otterhound
Hip dysplasia, epilepsy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Otterhound
Challenging for beginners
Their independent nature and training needs may overwhelm new owners
Not apartment friendly
Large size and high energy require more space than apartments provide
Excellent fit
High stamina and love of activity suit energetic, outdoorsy households
Generally suitable
Gentle and patient but may be rambunctious around small children
Usually compatible
Sociable nature but prey drive may need management with smaller pets
Not recommended
They can develop anxiety or destructive behaviors if left alone too long
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
Otterhound
- Friendly with children and other dogs
- Excellent scent-tracking abilities
- Adaptable to various environments
- Generally good-natured and affectionate
- Strong swimming and outdoor skills
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
Otterhound
- Prone to ear infections due to ear shape
- Requires frequent grooming and coat care
- Can be stubborn during training
- Needs high levels of daily exercise
- May bark or bay loudly and often
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
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