A CLOSER LOOK

Compare dog breeds for everyday life.

Compare size, exercise, grooming and care tradeoffs. Unknown fields stay visible; breed tendencies do not guarantee individual behavior.

Compare selected breed traits

Yellow Labrador Retriever standing on grass, with a short coat and thick tail.
Large

Labrador Retriever↗

An enthusiastic, sociable retriever who enjoys outdoor adventures and learning alongside their people.

Reviewed profile
Black Standard Poodle standing on grass, with a curly clipped coat and long legs.
Large

Standard Poodle↗

A bright, athletic companion with a low-shedding coat and a love of learning.

Reviewed profile
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Everyday lifeLabrador RetrieverStandard Poodle
OriginGreat BritainFrance
SizeLargeLarge
Height22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)over 15 inches (standard)
Weight65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)60-70 pounds (male standard), 40-50 pounds (female standard)
Typical lifespan11-13 years10-18 years
EnergyVery highHigh
Mental stimulationHighVery high
GroomingLowHigh
TrainabilityVery highVery high
BarkingModerateHigh
SheddingHighVery low
ChildrenVery highVery high
Other dogsVery highModerate
Apartment adaptabilityLowModerate
First-owner suitabilityVery highHigh
Climate considerationsUnknownUnknown
Monthly estimate (USD)$165–$330$195–$380
Care considerationsYoung Labs can be exuberant. Daily exercise and consistent training matter.Professional grooming and mental enrichment are essential; low shedding does not guarantee allergy compatibility.
SourceAKC Labrador Retriever breed guideAKC Poodle (Standard) breed guide

AKC trait ratings describe general tendencies. Apartment and first-owner ratings are editorial estimates. Unknown means unresearched or unavailable. Cats and small pets require individual assessment. Monthly estimates exclude emergencies, insurance, and initial costs. Read our methodology and sources.

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