West Siberian Laika vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between West Siberian Laika and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
West Siberian Laika
Loyal, energetic, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives on adventure and close bonds with its family. Adaptable and alert, it excels as a hunting companion and dedicated guardian.
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
18–27 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
12–15 years
16–23 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.
West Siberian Laika
Wary with strangers, loyal to familiar people
Learns quickly, responds well to training
Very active, needs plenty of daily exercise
Enjoys interactive games and outdoor activities
Adapts best to rural or spacious environments
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
West Siberian Laika
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
West Siberian Laika
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced, consistent handling and early training
Not suitable
Needs lots of space and regular outdoor activity
Excellent fit
Thrives with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities
Cautious with children
May be reserved or independent with young kids unless well-socialized
May be territorial
Can be dominant or chase smaller animals without socialization
Poor fit
Dislikes being left alone and may develop destructive behaviors
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
West Siberian Laika
- Highly alert and responsive to surroundings
- Strong natural hunting instincts
- Loyal and protective toward family
- High endurance for outdoor activities
- Adapts well to cold climates
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
West Siberian Laika
- Requires extensive daily physical exercise
- Prone to strong prey drive chasing
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Needs experienced, consistent training
- May become destructive if under-stimulated
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.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience