Picardy Shepherd vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Picardy Shepherd and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Picardy Shepherd
Alert, loyal, and full of energy, the Picardy Shepherd thrives as an active companion. Its shaggy coat and affectionate spirit make it a standout family dog.
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
28–32 kg
Harsh texture, medium length
10–13 years
23–27 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.
Picardy Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Learns quickly, responds well to training
Needs daily vigorous physical and mental activity
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to changes in environment
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
Picardy Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Picardy Shepherd
Challenging for novices
Needs experienced handler for training and socialization
Not suitable
Needs space and dislikes confinement in small areas
Excellent match
Thrives with active families who provide daily exercise and stimulation
Good fit
Generally gentle, but supervision is needed with very young children
Often compatible
Can coexist with other pets if properly socialized early
Not recommended
Dislikes long periods of isolation and may develop anxiety or destructiveness
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
Picardy Shepherd
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Strong work ethic and stamina
- Excellent natural watchdog instincts
- Adaptable to various living environments
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
Picardy Shepherd
- Needs significant daily mental stimulation
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Requires regular coat grooming and maintenance
- May herd children or other animals
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
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