Italian Hound vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Italian Hound and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Italian Hound
Elegant, athletic, and affectionate, this breed thrives on companionship and activity. Sleek and graceful, Italian Hounds are loyal, gentle, and quick to bond with families.
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
Medium
18–28 kg
Short, smooth
12–14 years
15–25 kg
High energy
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.
Italian Hound
Gentle and affectionate with family and children
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, requires regular daily exercise
Enjoys games but not overly boisterous
Adjusts moderately well to new 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
Italian Hound
Hip dysplasia, ear infections
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Italian Hound
Moderate challenge
Requires consistent training and patience from inexperienced owners
Needs space
May become restless and vocal in confined apartments
Excellent match
Thrives with active owners who provide regular exercise and stimulation
Generally gentle
Usually patient but may be sensitive to rough handling by small children
Usually compatible
Gets along with other dogs but may chase small pets due to prey drive
Not recommended
Dislikes being alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors
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
Italian Hound
- Excellent scent tracking abilities
- Energetic and agile runner
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Intelligent and quick to learn commands
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
Italian Hound
- Strong prey drive may chase small animals
- Requires significant daily exercise
- Can be independent and stubborn
- Sensitive to harsh training methods
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
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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