Spanish Water Dog vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Spanish Water Dog and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Spanish Water Dog
Energetic, loyal, and highly trainable, this curly-coated breed thrives in active households. Adaptable and affectionate, the Spanish Water Dog makes a devoted companion and versatile working partner.
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
18–22 kg
Curly, woolly
12–14 years
14–18 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.
Spanish Water Dog
Generally sociable with family and familiar people
Quick learner, excels in obedience and tasks
Highly active, requires regular physical exercise
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to new routines 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
Spanish Water Dog
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Spanish Water Dog
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced handling and consistent training
Not ideal
Needs space and mental stimulation to thrive
Excellent match
Thrives with active owners and frequent exercise
Very suitable
Patient and energetic with respectful, well-supervised children
Good fit
Generally sociable with other pets when socialized early
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods
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
Spanish Water Dog
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong swimming and retrieving instincts
- Loyal and forms close family bonds
- Adaptable to various environments and activities
- Low-shedding, curly coat reduces dander
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
Spanish Water Dog
- Requires regular mental stimulation and challenges
- Prone to coat matting without routine grooming
- Reserved or aloof with unfamiliar people
- Needs consistent, positive training approach
- High energy levels demand daily vigorous exercise
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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