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Spinone Italiano vs Labrador Retriever

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

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Spinone Italiano
Italy

Spinone Italiano

Sporting Group
Large

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
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:

Large

Male:

32–37 kg

Coat:

Dense, wiry

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

28–30 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.

Spinone Italiano

Friendliness
5/5

Gentle, sociable, gets along well with people

Intelligence
4/5

Learns quickly but may show some stubbornness

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily outings

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys games and interactive family time

Adaptability
4/5

Handles new situations and environments quite well

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

Spinone Italiano

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, entropion

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

Spinone Italiano

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Patient and eager to please, but may need consistent training from new owners

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs space

Large size and energy level make small apartments less suitable

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Very suitable

Enjoys outdoor activities and thrives with active families

Kids
5/5

Gentle companion

Known for calm temperament and tolerance with children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Generally compatible

Usually gets along well with other dogs and pets if socialized early

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

Dislikes being left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety

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

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

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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