Labrador Retriever vs Siberian Husky

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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
11 to 13 years
Size:

Large

Maintenance Level:

Medium

Shed Level:

Medium

Best For

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in America, known for their friendliness, intelligence and outgoing nature. These high-energy, athletic dogs require ample exercise and thrive in active households.

Labrador Retriever Temperament

Cheerful and animated, this large dog breed has stamina and energy to spare, able to keep up with your family and all your activities. You’ll want to funnel that energy into positive outlets, like outdoor activities and training. And thanks to their high intelligence, learning commands and tricks com...

Cheerful and animated, this large dog breed has stamina and energy to spare, able to keep up with your family and all your activities. You’ll want to funnel that energy into positive outlets, like outdoor activities and training. And thanks to their high intelligence, learning commands and tricks come relativity easy for them. Labrador dogs love having a job to do and excel at things like agility courses and, just like their name implies, retrieving items. In fact, their superior intelligence is why they often make great assistance dogs, working as therapy or service animals.

A people-pleaser, Labrador Retrievers have a pleasant personality and love interacting with humans. Get ready to be showered with lots of affection! They also easily make friends with dogs and other animals, including cats, although not all cats are as excited to meet them as they are—a Lab’s large size and high energy level can be a bit intimidating. Slow and controlled introductions to other family pets will help make the transition go smoothly. Considering the staying power of the Labrador dog breed’s popularity, it’s a safe bet your Lab will fit right in with the all the loved ones you choose to introduce into their life.

While they’re generally good-natured, like any dog breed, Labs may develop aggressive tendencies if they don’t receive proper training or have experienced abuse. Addressing any biting issues early on, providing proper socialization when they are puppies (aka safely exposing them to lots of new people, places and things) and working with a professional dog trainer can help avoid behavioral issues when they get older.

Labrador Retriever Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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siberian husky running in snow

Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
12 to 14 years
Size:

Medium

Maintenance Level:

High

Shed Level:

High

Best For

Siberian Huskies are as energetic as they are strikingly beautiful. This independent breed needs firm training, as well as consistent exercise and mental stimulation. If you're looking for a loyal canine partner to join your...

Siberian Huskies are as energetic as they are strikingly beautiful. This independent breed needs firm training, as well as consistent exercise and mental stimulation. If you're looking for a loyal canine partner to join your active adventures, this might just be the breed for you.

Siberian Husky Temperament

Siberian Huskies, renowned for their friendliness and intelligence, are wonderful companions who thrive on social interaction. They have an inherent need to be surrounded by both humans and fellow canines, and express their sociable nature in unique ways: Many will “talk” to you using howls, growls and whimpers, which is...

Siberian Huskies, renowned for their friendliness and intelligence, are wonderful companions who thrive on social interaction. They have an inherent need to be surrounded by both humans and fellow canines, and express their sociable nature in unique ways: Many will “talk” to you using howls, growls and whimpers, which is an endearing part of their personality.

Their affability comes with two caveats:

  • Since they’re predisposed to welcoming strangers, they lack the traits of a typical guard dog. (Not a problem if you don’t need a guard dog!)
  • Siberian Huskies don’t enjoy long periods of isolation or contemplation. In such circumstances where they are stressed or bored, they may contemplate, and act on, destructive behaviors. If left in the backyard, Huskies are notorious for their escape attempts. Secure fencing is a must to prevent exploratory escapades.

Huskies are also strong-willed, a trait that may make training a bit of a challenge. They’re typically good around kids and other dogs, but they do have a high prey drive and may chase cats and small animals. However, with an experienced pup parent who can train and socialize them consistently, they can be a well-behaved family member.

MORE: Behavior Of Your Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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