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Plott Hound vs Golden Retriever

Discover the differences between Plott Hound and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Plott Hound
United States

Plott Hound

Hound Group
Large

Athletic, determined, and loyal, the Plott Hound thrives on adventure and companionship. This energetic breed is known for its tracking skills and affectionate nature with families.

Golden Retriever
Scotland

Golden Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

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

Size:

Large

Male:

18–27 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

12–14 years

Female:

18–25 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Large

Male:

29–34 kg

Coat:

Double coat, water-repellent

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–29 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Plott Hound

Friendliness
3/5

Generally sociable but reserved with strangers

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responsive to training

Energy Level
5/5

Very active, thrives on vigorous exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys games and interactive activities

Adaptability
3/5

May struggle with sudden changes in routine

Golden Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs

Intelligence
5/5

Quick to learn commands and routines

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and mental stimulation

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Plott Hound

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, gastric torsion

Golden Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Heavy 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

Plott Hound

First-time Owner
2/5

Challenging for Beginners

Needs consistent training and strong leadership skills to thrive

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

High energy and vocal nature make small spaces challenging

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Thrives with frequent exercise, outdoor activities, and active engagement

Kids
3/5

Fairly suitable

Generally gentle but may be too boisterous for toddlers

Multiple Pets
3/5

Mixed compatibility

Can be territorial, especially with unfamiliar pets

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes isolation and may develop behavior issues if left alone too long

Golden Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs space

Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Highly suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people

Kids
5/5

Perfect fit

Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets

Being Left Alone
2/5

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

Plott Hound

  • Excellent scent tracking ability
  • High stamina for long hunts
  • Loyal and devoted to family
  • Generally healthy and robust breed
  • Adaptable to various 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

Plott Hound

  • Prone to strong prey drive outdoors
  • Needs consistent daily physical exercise
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • May be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Vocal when stimulated or left alone

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?

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