Spinone Italiano vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Spinone Italiano and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds

Spinone Italiano
Gentle, affectionate, and patient, the Spinone Italiano is a loyal companion with a wiry coat and soulful eyes. This easygoing breed thrives in active homes and loves human connection.

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
32–37 kg
Dense, wiry
10–12 years
28–30 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.
Spinone Italiano
Gentle, sociable, gets along well with people
Learns quickly but may show some stubbornness
Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily outings
Enjoys games and interactive family time
Handles new situations and environments quite well
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
Spinone Italiano
Hip dysplasia, entropion
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Spinone Italiano
Good option
Patient and eager to please, but may need consistent training from new owners
Needs space
Large size and energy level make small apartments less suitable
Very suitable
Enjoys outdoor activities and thrives with active families
Gentle companion
Known for calm temperament and tolerance with children
Generally compatible
Usually gets along well with other dogs and pets if socialized early
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety
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
Spinone Italiano
- Gentle and patient with children
- Strong scenting and tracking skills
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Low aggression toward other dogs
- Generally healthy with few genetic issues
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
Spinone Italiano
- Prone to stubbornness during training sessions
- Requires regular mental and physical stimulation
- Heavy shedding and frequent grooming needed
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- Slow maturity, remains puppy-like for years
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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