Rough Collie vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Rough Collie and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Rough Collie
Graceful, intelligent, and loyal, this breed thrives as a devoted companion and excels in family life. Famous for a luxurious double coat and gentle, sensitive disposition.
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
27–34 kg
Double coat, long and dense
12–14 years
23–30 kg
Moderately active
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.
Rough Collie
Gentle and friendly with people and children
Quick learner, eager to understand commands
Moderately active, enjoys regular daily exercise
Enjoys games and family interaction
Adjusts well to routine changes and environments
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
Rough Collie
Collie eye anomaly, hip dysplasia
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Rough Collie
Good companion
Gentle temperament makes them manageable for new owners with some training effort
Not ideal
Needs space and regular exercise, which small apartments seldom provide
Highly suitable
Enjoys activity and will thrive in a home with regular play and outings
Very friendly
Patient and gentle with children, making them a safe family choice
Generally compatible
Tends to get along with other pets if socialized early
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods, which may cause stress or behavioral issues
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
Rough Collie
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Gentle and patient with children
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent watchdog instincts
- Generally good with other pets
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
Rough Collie
- Sensitive to harsh corrections or loud voices
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Needs frequent brushing due to dense coat
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Requires regular mental and physical stimulation
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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