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    Labrador Retriever vs Poodle: Which Breed Is Right for You?

    A detailed side-by-side comparison of Labrador Retriever and Poodle covering size, temperament, grooming, exercise needs, health, and costs.

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    Overview

    Quick Comparison

    CategoryLabrador RetrieverPoodle
    Lifespan
    10-12 years
    12-15 yearsWinner
    Size
    LargeYour preference
    LargeYour preference
    Energy Level
    5/5 (Very High)Your preference
    4/5 (High)Your preference
    Trainability
    5/5 (Very High)Similar
    5/5 (Very High)Similar
    Grooming Needs
    2/5 (Low)Winner
    5/5 (Very High)
    Shedding
    4/5 (High)Your preference
    1/5 (Very Low)Your preference
    Good with Children
    5/5 (Very High)Winner
    4/5 (High)
    Exercise Needs
    90+ minutesYour preference
    60-90 minutesYour preference
    Apartment Friendly
    1/5 (Very Low)
    3/5 (Moderate)Winner
    First-Time Owners
    5/5 (Very High)Winner
    4/5 (High)
    Purchase Price
    $800-$2,500Winner
    $1,000-$3,000

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    Which Breed Is Right for You?

    Choose Labrador Retriever If You...

    • Very active families
    • First-time dog owners
    • Homes with large yards
    • Water enthusiasts
    • Those needing service/therapy dogs

    May not be ideal if you:

    • Apartment dwellers
    • Sedentary lifestyles
    • Those with limited time

    Choose Poodle If You...

    • Allergy sufferers
    • Active families
    • Those wanting intelligent dog
    • Competitive dog sports
    • People willing to maintain grooming

    May not be ideal if you:

    • Those avoiding grooming costs
    • Couch potatoes
    • Budget-conscious owners

    Key Differences

    • Poodles require much more grooming
    • Poodles are better suited for apartments

    Similarities

    • Similar energy levels
    • Similar trainability
    • Both excellent with children
    • Both are large-sized

    The Verdict: Labrador Retriever vs Poodle

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Labrador Retrievers have an edge for families, known for their patience and gentle nature with children. Poodles can also be great family dogs but may need supervision with young toddlers due to their high energy. Both breeds thrive with early socialization and consistent training.

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    Disclaimer: Breed characteristics can vary between individual dogs. Always meet and assess individual animals before adoption.