Are Golden Retrievers considered Labs or Labrador Retrievers? Have you ever noticed the similarities between Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers? This is a good question that many people ask about these dogs.
However, Golden Retrievers are not considered Labs. Therefore, although they have many similarities, Golden Retrievers are different from Labrador Retrievers.
Below you will find everything you need to know about the similarities and differences between these two dog breeds. Knowing these facts will allow you to understand that although both are beautiful in their way, these dogs are not the same.
Before scrolling down this article “Are Golden Retrievers Considered Labs,” check out these related guides: Best Golden Retriever Breeders in the United States and Are Golden Retrievers Smart?
Are Golden Retrievers Considered Labrador Retrievers?
No, Golden Retrievers are not considered Labs. However, the two breeds are closely related as they are both sporting breeds, specifically Retrievers.
In addition to being retrievers, these dogs have similar appearances and personalities, making them hard to distinguish. Many people confuse the two dog breeds, especially puppies, because they are similar.
Related: Best Red Golden Retriever Breeders in the United States.
Similarities
First, we will look at the similarities between Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. These are the shared traits that cause the most confusion when distinguishing between the two breeds.
Just remember, just because they are similar does not mean they are the same. Golden Retrievers are not considered Labs, and Labs are not considered Golden Retrievers.
Color
The most apparent similarity between Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers is their color. Precisely, Golden Retrievers are often mistaken for Yellow Labs.
Labradors come in many colors, but the Yellow color is similar to Golden Retrievers. Additionally, Labs can come in a red color that can also be compared to Red Golden Retrievers.
Overall, the color of these two dogs confuses many people into thinking they are the same breed, especially as puppies, when their distinctive features are not as developed. Regardless, even with their similar colorings, these two dogs are still two separate breeds.
Related: Best Dog Brushes For Golden Retrievers.
Size
Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are similar in size. Both the weight and height of these dogs are nearly the same, making them easily confusable.
Golden Retrievers range from 21.5-24 inches tall and 55-75 lbs in weight. Labrador Retrievers are typically between 21.5-24.5 inches tall and 55-80 lbs. So, as you can see, there is a slight difference in these dogs’ average height and weight.
However, this is very hard to distinguish when simply looking at these dogs. So, even though the Labrador Retriever is slightly larger, you will not be able to tell. This difference is so subtle Labs are often mistaken for Golden Retrievers and vice versa.
Related: When Do Labs Stop Growing?
Energy Level
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers belong to the sporting group of dogs. These dogs love physical activity and are known for their high energy levels.
Both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers need approximately one hour of physical activity each day. This can be provided through walks, swimming, fetch, and other fun games.
Many people assume that because these dogs are similar in activity level and are part of the same AKC group, they are the same. But they are not. Some people like to think of the two breeds as cousins because of these similarities. That being said, there are no genetic links between the two breeds.
Related: Best Labrador Retriever Rescues in the United States.
Temperament
Both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are known for their great temperaments. In addition, these dogs share similar personality traits that make them highly desirable.
Both breeds are gentle, affectionate, and playful. These dogs are great with children and other dogs, making them great additions to any family. One feature shared between these dogs that genuinely demonstrates their lovable personality is their tendency to smile.
Both Golden Retrievers and Labs smile when they are relaxed. Although adorable, this behavior sometimes makes the dogs even harder to distinguish between.
Differences
Now that you know about the similarities between Golden Retrievers and Labs, it is time to look at the differences. These are the things that can help distinguish between the two breeds. Because even though they are very similar, they are not the same.
Origins
The origin of a breed helps us to understand where the dog originally came from and why they were bred in the first place. For example, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland during the 1800s.
Before becoming one of the most popular family dog breeds, Golden Retrievers were originally bred as gun dogs. These dogs helped with hunting and farming, making them notoriously hard workers.
On the other hand, Labrador Retrievers originated in the Canadian province of Newfoundland. They were bred to help with fishing expeditions.
These dogs were previously known as the St. John’s Water Dog and resulted from breeding Newfoundlands with small water dogs. This St. John’s Water Dog is now the Labrador Retriever we all know and love. Labrador Retrievers have been named America’s most popular dog.
Coat
One of the main distinguishing factors between these breeds is their distinct coats. Golden Retrievers have long, wavy, double coats, while Labrador Retrievers have short, straight, double coats.
This length difference can help you quickly spot the difference between the two breeds. Additionally, Labs come in colors other than yellow. Labs can also be chocolate and black, whereas Golden Retrievers are always golden (in some shade or another).
Tail and Paws
Another noticeable difference between these two dog breeds is their tails. Golden Retriever tails are fluffy, long, and rounded. On the other hand, Labs have tails that look less like a dog’s and more like an otter’s.
Specifically, Lab tails are broader and flatter than most dogs, which helps them swim better. In addition to their tails, these dogs also have different paws. For example, Labrador Retrievers have webbed paws because they have been bred to be great swimmers. On the other hand, Golden Retrievers have paws without webbing.
Related: Best Dog Breeds with Big Paws.
Conclusion For “Are Golden Retrievers Considered Labs”
As you can see, there are many similarities between Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. However, there are also differences between the two breeds. Therefore, Golden Retrievers are not considered Labs.
These dogs are two completely different breeds. However, one thing is sure for these breeds: they have fantastic temperaments and make a great addition to any family.
For more articles related to “Are Golden Retrievers Considered Labs,” you can check out:
- Best Labrador Breeders in the United States
- When Do Labs Stop Growing?
- Best Mini Golden Retriever Breeders in the United States
You can learn more about the differences by watching “Golden Retriever vs. Labrador Retriever” down below:
Andy is a full-time animal rescuer and owner of a toy doodle. When he’s not saving dogs, Andy is one of our core writers and editors. He has been writing about dogs for over a decade. Andy joined our team because he believes that words are powerful tools that can change a dog’s life for the better.
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