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Tibetan Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever

Discover the differences between Tibetan Spaniel and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Tibetan Spaniel
Tibet

Tibetan Spaniel

Non-Sporting Group
Small

Alert, affectionate, and confident, this small companion thrives on close bonds with family. Renowned for a lion-like mane and cheerful, spirited personality.

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:

Small

Male:

4–7 kg

Coat:

Silky, double coat

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

4–7 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.

Tibetan Spaniel

Friendliness
4/5

Warm with family, reserved with strangers

Intelligence
5/5

Quick learner, attentive and observant

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily walks

Playfulness
4/5

Likes interactive games and gentle fun

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various living situations

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

Tibetan Spaniel

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
30–45 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation

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

Tibetan Spaniel

First-time Owner
4/5

Good fit

Adaptable and easy to train, making them manageable for new owners.

Apartment Living
5/5

Very suitable

Small size and low exercise needs match well with apartment life.

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Moderately suitable

Enjoy activity but do not require intense daily exercise routines.

Kids
3/5

Generally good

Gentle and affectionate but may be reserved or aloof with very young children.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Good companion

Typically sociable with other pets if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

Dislike being left alone 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

Tibetan Spaniel

  • Alert watchdog with keen senses
  • Affectionate with family members
  • Generally good with other pets
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Low grooming needs for a long coat

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

Tibetan Spaniel

  • Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
  • Can be stubborn during training
  • May be reserved with strangers
  • Needs regular mental stimulation
  • Sensitive to harsh correction or loud environments

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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