PetSecur Logo
HomeToolsBreed comparison

Podenco vs Golden Retriever

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

Try different breeds

vs
Podenco
Spain

Podenco

Hound Group
Medium

Agile, alert, and affectionate, the Podenco thrives as an energetic companion with a keen hunting instinct. Their loyal nature and intelligence make them adaptable to active 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:

Medium

Male:

18–25 kg

Coat:

Short, fine

Lifespan:

12–14 years

Female:

16–22 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.

Podenco

Friendliness
4/5

Generally sociable with familiar people and dogs

Intelligence
4/5

Quick to learn and problem-solve independently

Energy Level
5/5

Very active, thrives with daily exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys interactive games and outdoor activities

Adaptability
3/5

Adjusts to change with some initial caution

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

Podenco

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
90–120 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in warm, dry climates
Health concerns:

Eye disorders, joint issues

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

Podenco

First-time Owner
2/5

Requires experience

Podencos can be independent and stubborn, needing consistent training and patience

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs more space

They are energetic and vocal, often needing more room than apartments provide

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Excellent match

Thrives with plenty of exercise and outdoor activities in active environments

Kids
3/5

Cautious fit

May be too boisterous and energetic for very young children without supervision

Multiple Pets
4/5

Generally compatible

Podencos usually do well with other dogs if socialized early

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

They get bored and anxious when left alone for extended periods

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

Podenco

  • Agile and quick in movement
  • Highly alert and watchful
  • Generally healthy with few hereditary issues
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Strong scent and sight hunting abilities

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

Podenco

  • High prey drive may challenge recall
  • Needs significant daily physical exercise
  • Can be aloof with strangers
  • Prone to boredom without mental stimulation
  • Sensitive to harsh training methods

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

Name Generator

Find the perfect name for your new furry friend with our smart generator

Breed Generator

Discover new and interesting breeds that could be perfect for you

Dog Quiz

Test your knowledge about dogs with our interactive quiz

Get your free pet insurance quote in 2 minutes!

Join pet owners who save money while keeping their furry friends protected

✓ Highest payouts in Netherlands ✓ No waiting period ✓ Quick claims processing

* Required fields

No obligations • Free consultation • Response within 24 hours