Sussex Spaniel vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Sussex Spaniel and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Sussex Spaniel
Affectionate, loyal, and steady, the Sussex Spaniel thrives as a gentle companion with a soulful gaze. Its calm nature and cheerful disposition suit laid-back families and quiet households.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Medium
18–23 kg
Flat, silky
12–15 years
16–20 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Sussex Spaniel
Warm, affectionate with family and familiar people
Learns steadily, responds well to gentle training
Enjoys activity but prefers a slower pace
Likes gentle games, not overly exuberant
Adjusts moderately to new settings and changes
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Sussex Spaniel
Ear infections, hip dysplasia
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Sussex Spaniel
Good option
Sussex Spaniels are gentle and easygoing, making them manageable for most beginners.
Suitable choice
Their moderate size and calm nature suit apartment environments if exercised daily.
Moderate match
They enjoy moderate activity but are not high-energy sporting dogs.
Very friendly
Their gentle temperament typically makes them patient with young children.
Usually compatible
They generally get along well with other dogs and pets in the household.
Not ideal
Sussex Spaniels dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety.
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Sussex Spaniel
- Gentle with family members
- Steady and calm temperament
- Good with children and pets
- Strong scenting ability for tracking
- Loyal and affectionate companion
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Sussex Spaniel
- Prone to weight gain if overfed
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
- Needs regular ear cleaning to prevent infections
- Tends to bark when bored or lonely
- Requires daily exercise to prevent restlessness
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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