Poodle vs Labrador Retriever
Two of the smartest family dogs, looking nothing alike. The Lab sheds like it's paid to; the Poodle barely sheds but needs a groomer on speed dial.
Side by side
| Poodle | Labrador Retriever | Verdict | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 3/5 | 4/5 | The Labrador Retriever is bigger |
| Energy | 4/5 | 4/5 | Tie |
| Shedding | 1/5 | 5/5 | The Labrador Retriever sheds more |
| Barking | 3/5 | 3/5 | Tie |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 5/5 | Tie |
| Kid-friendliness | 4/5 | 5/5 | The Labrador Retriever is better with kids |
| Drooling | 1/5 | 2/5 | The Labrador Retriever drools more |
| Life expectancy | 10–18 years | 10–12 years | The Poodle lives longer |
Vet costs
Age 1, U.S.-average prices, $2,000 emergency savings.
Poodle
- First-year expected vet cost: $835
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $58/mo
- Top cost drivers: Heart murmur / MVD · Addison's disease
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $23,100
Labrador Retriever
- First-year expected vet cost: $849
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $60/mo
- Top cost drivers: Bloat (GDV) · Elbow dysplasia
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $12,613
Lifetime totals include lifespan: the Poodle is expected to live 10–18 years, the Labrador Retriever 10–12 years.
About the same.
Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Choose the Poodle if…
- You want a low-shedding coat
- You're okay with regular professional grooming
- You want a smart, elegant athlete
Choose the Labrador Retriever if…
- You want a low-maintenance coat (with lots of hair)
- You want the classic family retriever
- You'd rather skip the groomer bills
FAQ
Which is cheaper to insure?
About the same. Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: Poodle $58, Labrador Retriever $60. Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Which sheds more?
The Labrador Retriever sheds more. Shedding: Poodle 1/5, Labrador Retriever 5/5.
Which lives longer?
The Poodle lives longer. Poodle: 10–18 years; Labrador Retriever: 10–12 years.
Which is better with kids?
The Labrador Retriever is better with kids. Kid-friendliness: Poodle 4/5, Labrador Retriever 5/5.
Test-drive the Poodle · Test-drive the Labrador Retriever · Poodle profile · Labrador Retriever profile