Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Welsh Springer Spaniel and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
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Welsh Springer Spaniel
Energetic, affectionate, and eager to please, this spaniel thrives with active families and loves outdoor adventures. Recognized for a striking red-and-white coat and loyal companionship.
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
16–20 kg
Straight coat, feathered
12–15 years
16–18 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.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Affectionate and sociable with people and pets
Learns commands quickly and solves simple problems
Needs regular activity and enjoys vigorous exercise
Loves interactive games and entertaining activities
Adjusts well to new environments and routines
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
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Hip dysplasia, ear infections
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Good option
Trainable and eager to please, but needs consistent activity and guidance
Not ideal
Needs more space and exercise than most apartments can provide
Perfect fit
Thrives with energetic families who enjoy outdoor activities
Very friendly
Gentle nature and patience suit homes with young children
Highly suitable
Gets along well with other dogs and pets if socialized early
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
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
Welsh Springer Spaniel
- Friendly and affectionate with family
- Strong natural hunting instincts
- Good stamina for outdoor activities
- Generally healthy and hardy breed
- Responsive to positive training methods
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
Welsh Springer Spaniel
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Needs daily physical and mental exercise
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Regular grooming required for coat maintenance
- May chase small animals due to prey drive
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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