Difference Between Golden Retriever & Labrador Retriever Dogs

Labrador retrievers have a shorter coat and "otter tail."

Golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers are two of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club. Both are sporting breeds that were developed to assist hunters, and both make good guide, assistance and search-and-rescue dogs. However, there are differences between the breeds.

Origins

Golden and Labrador retrievers have different origins. Goldens were developed in Scotland, while Labs originated in Newfoundland, Canada.

Coat

Golden retrievers have longer, feathered coats that are neither coarse nor silky. Labrador retrievers have a short, hard coat with no feathering.

Color

Dogs of both breeds can have a yellow coat, varying from light cream to fox red. Yellow is the only color for golden retrievers. Labs can be yellow, black or brown.

Build

The breeds are similar in size, but Labrador retrievers are stockier, with broad heads and a distinctive "otter tail."

Health

Both breeds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. They can also suffer from eye disease -- pigmentary uveitis in Golden retrievers and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in Labrador retrievers.

References

• American Kennel Club: AKC Dog Registration Statistics
• Golden Retriever Club of America: Hereditary and Breeding Concerns
• The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.: Breeding Your Labrador

Resources

• American Kennel Club: Golden Retriever
• American Kennel Club: Labrador Retriever