If you're planning to add a retriever puppy or even a grown retriever to the family, you may wonder exactly what the differences are between Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. To help you in your selection, visit either one of these great Northern Ontario Breeders.

Labrador Retriever	Golden Retriever
Magic Paw Kennels Sundridge, Ontario, Canada select me	Pickalick Kennels Sundridge, Ontario, Canada select me

The real difference ....

Labrador Retrievers came from Canada, while Golden Retrievers originated from Europe. The Golden Retriever was first developed in the British Isles, probably from crosses between a yellow flat-coated retriever, light-coated tweed Water Spaniels, other spaniels, setters and even the Newfoundland and possibly the Bloodhound. The Golden Retriever is one of the world's foremost family companion dogs. Labrador Retrievers are believed to have originated on the island of Newfoundland, now part of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. They are thought to have descended from the St. John's Water Dog (no longer in existence), a crossbreed of native water dogs and the Newfoundland to which the Labrador is closely related. The Labrador Retriever is a quick learner and is a very responsive breed. It is playful, energetic, and very friendly. It can get along with other dogs and household pets. There are many Labrador Retrievers that are hailed as heroes because of their intelligence and alert services for their human owners. The Golden Retriever is another heavy favorite among dog lovers. It is a well-balanced dog and is friendly and intelligent too. It gets along very well with other dogs and pets. It is also easy to train and makes a very good watchdog.

While Golden Labs comes only in a golden color, Labrador Retrievers can come in yellow, black, or chocolate. Both breeds are wonderful family dogs. However, Golden Retrievers as a breed are typically a bit more calm than Labrador Retrievers. Golden Retrievers tend to want to be with people all the time, and desire a lot of attention. Labs are more independent by nature. Both breeds are great with kids, and both love water, although some labs may love to swim more than some goldens. Both golden and Labrador retrievers are very easy going dogs, who wouldn't by nature hurt even a flea. Golden Retrievers do need more grooming than labs, as they have longer coats. If you don't want to maintain the coat of a golden, you might want to consider a lab because their short hair is much easier to maintain.