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Sealyham Terrier vs Labrador Retriever

Discover the differences between Sealyham Terrier and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Sealyham Terrier
Wales

Sealyham Terrier

Terrier Group
Small

Compact, spirited, and affectionate, this terrier charms with its bold personality and sense of humor. Adaptable and loyal, it makes a devoted companion for families or singles.

Labrador Retriever
Canada

Labrador Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

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

Size:

Small

Male:

8–9 kg

Coat:

Dense, weather-resistant

Lifespan:

12–14 years

Female:

8–9 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Large

Male:

29–36 kg

Coat:

Short double coat, water-resistant

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–32 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Sealyham Terrier

Friendliness
4/5

Generally sociable with family and familiar people

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate activity needs, enjoys regular exercise

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys play but not highly boisterous

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various home environments

Labrador Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with people and animals

Intelligence
5/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
5/5

High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
5/5

Adjusts easily to new situations and environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Sealyham Terrier

Grooming:
High grooming needs (weekly hand-stripping)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Lens luxation, deafness

Labrador Retriever

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

Sealyham Terrier

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Responsive and adaptable, but needs consistent training and socialization from new owners

Apartment Living
4/5

Apartment friendly

Compact size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment environments well

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Moderately suitable

Enjoys play but does not require high activity levels

Kids
3/5

Generally good

Tolerates respectful children but may be reserved with rough play

Multiple Pets
3/5

Needs supervision

Can coexist with other pets if socialized early, but may chase small animals

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not recommended

Dislikes long periods alone and may develop separation anxiety or unwanted behaviors

Labrador Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.

Kids
5/5

Highly suitable

Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.

Being Left Alone
2/5

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

Sealyham Terrier

  • Loyal to family members
  • Good watchdog instincts
  • Generally friendly with other dogs
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat

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

Sealyham Terrier

  • Prone to stubborn, independent behavior
  • Can be wary of strangers
  • Needs regular coat hand-stripping
  • May chase small animals due to prey drive
  • Can develop separation anxiety

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

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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