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

Podenco
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
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
18–25 kg
Short, fine
12–14 years
16–22 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.
Podenco
Generally sociable with familiar people and dogs
Quick to learn and problem-solve independently
Very active, thrives with daily exercise
Enjoys interactive games and outdoor activities
Adjusts to change with some initial caution
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
Podenco
Eye disorders, joint issues
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Podenco
Requires experience
Podencos can be independent and stubborn, needing consistent training and patience
Needs more space
They are energetic and vocal, often needing more room than apartments provide
Excellent match
Thrives with plenty of exercise and outdoor activities in active environments
Cautious fit
May be too boisterous and energetic for very young children without supervision
Generally compatible
Podencos usually do well with other dogs if socialized early
Not recommended
They get bored and anxious when left alone for extended periods
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
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
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