12 Dogs Breeds Similar to Labradors Find Your Perfect Match

Introduction

Labrador Retrievers are among the most common dog breeds today because of their gentle temperament, high intel Pose, and adaptability. Are you interested in Labradors but want to know more about other breeds similar to this? If you want a breed that suits your lifestyle more or if you are hopping around to learn more, below are some breeds that offer the outstanding traits of Labradors. Now, look at the 12 dog breeds similar to a Labrador Retriever and determine which breed suits you best.

12 Dogs Breeds Similar to Labradors

Golden Retriever – The Classic Alternative

Overview

Golden Retrievers and Labradors are often considered siblings because of their temperaments and looks. Both are friendly and loyal, and they love to play. Goldens are slightly fluffier and gentler, making them great companions for families with children.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are highly trainable, making them great for first-time dog owners.
• They are incredibly friendly and loyal and love to interact with people and other pets.

Differences:

• Golden Retrievers have a longer coat and require more grooming than Labradors.
• They tend to be slightly less energetic and more relaxed, especially as they age.

Flat-Coated Retriever – The Labrador’s Playful Cousin

Overview

Flat-Coated Retrievers are often compared to Labradors due to their playful and high-energy nature. They’re outgoing, love to fetch, and enjoy swimming just as much as Labs. These dogs thrive in active homes where they can run and explore.

Similarities:

• Like Labs, Flat-Coated Retrievers are intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze.
• Both breeds are social and great with families, kids, and pets.

Differences:

• Flat-Coats have a distinctive long, shiny coat, which requires regular grooming.
• They tend to stay “puppy-like” longer, even into adulthood.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever – The Tough, Outdoorsy Type

Overview

Suppose you love the water-loving traits of a Labrador but want something a bit tougher. In that case, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever might be your ideal pick. Bred for rugged outdoor work, this breed is known for its strength and independence.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are excellent swimmers and love water-based activities.
• They share a strong, muscular build and high stamina, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Differences:

• Chesapeake is more independent and can be a bit stubborn during training.
• They have a denser, more water-resistant coat that requires regular maintenance.

Curly-Coated Retriever – The Unique Lookalike

Overview

For those who want a dog with visual flair, the Curly-Coated Retriever offers a similar personality to Labradors but with a striking curly coat. They are fun-loving, intelligent, and loyal, just like Labs.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are excellent family pets and are great with kids.
• They are active, energetic, and love outdoor activities, making them great for adventurous owners.

Differences:

• The curly coat of this breed requires extra grooming to prevent matting.
• Curly-Coats tend to be more independent and may need extra effort in training.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever – The Mini Version

Overview

Suppose you’re looking for a smaller version of the Labrador with the same love for water and fetching. In that case, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (Toller) is a perfect fit. This breed is energetic, brilliant, and excels in agility and obedience.

Similarities:

• Tollers share the Labrador’s love for retrieving and water sports.
• These breeds are intelligent and quick to respond to training, as are almost all Labradors and Spaniels.

Differences:

• Tollers are smaller and more agile, perfect for families with limited space.
• They tend to be more vocal, often barking during play.

German Shorthaired Pointer – The Ultimate Athlete

Overview

If you’re an active person who loves running, hiking or hunting, the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) might be your ideal dog. They have the same high energy and intelligence as Labradors but with even more stamina.

Similarities:

• Both GSPs and Labradors are extremely energetic and love physical activities.
• They are intelligent, making it easy to train for various tasks.

Differences:

• GSPs have higher energy levels and need even more exercise than Labs.
• They are slimmer and sleeker, with less body fat, making them more sensitive to cold weather.

Vizsla – The Velcro Dog

Overview

Like Labradors, Vizslas are affectionate, loyal, and great with families. However, Vizslas are known as “Velcro dogs” because they love to always stick close to their humans.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are highly affectionate and love to be around people.
• They are active, fun-loving, and great for families with kids.

Differences:

• Vizslas tend to be more clingy and require constant companionship.
• They are slimmer and less muscular than Labradors, with a sleek coat.

Weimaraner – The Sleek Hunter

Overview

Like Labradors, Weimaraners are intelligent, active and sporty dogs. They are very good for hunting and they also need a fairly active family to be happy.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are highly energetic and need regular physical activity.
• They are intelligent dogs that require training and will suit an active master.

Differences:

• Weimaraners are more independent and can be stubborn during training.
• They require more structured exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

English Springer Spaniel – The Gentle Companion

Overview

If you’re looking for a family-friendly dog with Labrador-like qualities but in a slightly smaller package, the English Springer Spaniel is a great choice. They are affectionate, gentle, and great with kids.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are loving, loyal, and great family dogs.
• They enjoy outdoor activities and are known for their friendly, social nature.

Differences:

• Springers are smaller and less energetic than Labs, making them better for calmer households.
• They require more grooming due to their longer coat.

American Water Spaniel – The Water Enthusiast

Overview

Just like Labradors, American Water Spaniels love swimming and water activities. They are active, friendly, and make great companions for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are superb water lovers and enjoy water-related activities.
• The guys are wise, energetic, and like company, as well as their ladies do, too.

Differences:

• American Water Spaniels are smaller and more independent than Labs.
• They can be challenging regarding training, and it takes a while to get it right.

Border Collie – The Smart Worker

Overview

Border collie is among the most intelligent breeds, much like Labradors, but with a working drive that’s more suitable for a sporting breed. They are very intelligent and do well in homes that they receive both mental and physical challenge.

Similarities:

• Both breeds are energetic and intelligent and require regular exercise.
• They are loyal and trainable, making them great companions for active owners.

Differences:

• Border Collies are even more intelligent than Labradors and require more mental stimulation.
• They tend to be more reserved with strangers and can be shy compared to the friendly Lab.

Labradoodle – The Labrador Hybrid

Overview

If you love the temperament of a Labrador but want a hypoallergenic option, the Labradoodle is a great choice. A cross between a Labrador and a Poodle, this breed offers the best of both worlds.

Similarities:

• Labradoodles inherit the friendly, playful nature of Labradors.
• They are smart dogs and love to obey commands; hence, they are simple to train.

Differences:

• Labradoodles may shed less and are often better for people with allergies.
• Their coat requires regular grooming, especially if they inherit the curly Poodle hair.

Conclusion

Selecting a breed in a similar category and model, like the Labrador Retriever, is often full of fun, especially if this is what you have in mind. You only need a slight variation in the size, temperance, and grooming floor. Each of these 12 breeds has the beautiful quality of Labradors that are intelligent, loyal, and friendly dogs, but has an additional feature. As stated in other articles, whether one is an active person or a family seeking to add a new member to their home, there’s always a suitable dog. It may take months and years, but take your time, go through each of them, and choose the dog that would fit your lifestyle nicely!