Golden Retriever VS Poodle: 19 Differences

Golden retrievers and Poodles have more in common than one may think. They have similar temperaments and are equally suitable for service work, hunting, and families with kids.

However, they also have several crucial differences in grooming, behavior, and health. When choosing a dog, consider how much time and money you can invest into taking care of it.

Whatever your decision, a golden retriever or Poodle is a worthy choice and will undoubtedly become a trustworthy companion.

Size & Weight

Golden retriever males range from 22 to 24 inches in height and weigh 65-75 pounds on average, while females are 21-22.5 inches tall and weigh 55-65 pounds.

Poodles come in many types, so everyone can pick the preferred size. Standard Poodles stand at approximately 15 inches tall and weigh 45-70 pounds. Miniature Poodles range from 10 to 15 inches in height and weigh 15 to 17 pounds.

Toy Poodles don’t exceed 10 inches in height, and teacup Poodles get up to nine inches tall and weigh under six pounds. The American Kennel Club doesn’t yet recognize teacup Poodles.

Shedding

Golden retriever owners must be ready to vacuum surfaces frequently and use a lint roller daily because these dogs are heavy shedders. Shedding becomes extra intense in spring and fall when they blow out their dense undercoat.

Poodles don’t shed a lot and are generally considered hypoallergenic. Although some people may still have an allergic reaction, its risk is much lower than with goldens. Poodles don’t have seasonal shedding phases.

Personality

Golden retrievers are exuberant, curious, confident, outgoing dogs that are quick to make friends and love exploring new environments.

They will never miss a chance to play. Goldens are affectionate dogs that love cuddling and can sometimes behave goofy.

Poodles are fun-loving dogs that thrive on human attention. They are extroverted, lively, and curious. Poodles are very social, but miniature Poodles can sometimes be aggressive towards other dogs out of fear.

Child-Friendliness

Both golden retrievers and Poodles make excellent family dogs. They get along with kids of all ages and will never hurt a child intentionally. These dogs are gentle, playful, and affectionate – everything a child needs.

However, both breeds are energetic to the point of nuisance, so parents must supervise them when they spend time with young kids. They are better suitable for older kids who can play together with the dog and won’t get knocked over.

Pet-Friendliness

Golden retrievers are excellent companions for other dogs because they are rarely aggressive. However, their lively nature may be annoying for old or lazy dogs. Goldens also make great friends with cats and small pets because they have a low prey drive.

Poodles, too, get along with most animals, including cats, rabbits, and birds. Toy Poodles can become best playmates with small pets, and standard Poodles are likely to pretend they don’t exist.

Barking Level

When it comes to golden retriever vs. Poodles barking level, the point goes to the former. Although neither breed is a huge barker, Poodles are more easily triggered and more likely to excessively vocalize because of anxiety or boredom.

The good news is that Poodles can be trained to remain silent because these dogs are very obedient. Standard Poodles have the loudest bark and tend to bark more frequently than other varieties.

Intelligence & Trainability

Golden retrievers and Poodles are in the top five of the most intelligent dogs, according to canine researcher Stanley Coren. Goldens rank fourth and Poodles second, but the difference is insignificant.

Both breeds excel at obedience championships, quickly memorize commands, have excellent problem-solving skills, and understand human body language and emotions.

Even a child can train a golden retriever or Poodle, which is beneficial for families with kids. Training creates a strong bond between a child and the pet and teaches kids responsibility.

Common Behavior Problems

Poodles and golden retrievers are similar in temperament, so they are prone to the same behavior problems. Both breeds can become restless and anxious when not getting enough training or attention.

Anxiety in golden retrievers and Poodles usually manifests with destructive behavior such as digging, chewing on furniture, moving objects in the house, and excessive barking. Some dogs have potty accidents.

These dogs often pull on the leash because of curiosity and jump on people out of excitement, but they can be easily trained not to do so.

Exercise Needs

Golden retrievers and Poodles need at least an hour of walking or 40 minutes of vigorous exercise daily to stay healthy and fit. An under-exercised dog may engage in destructive behavior and gain extra weight.

Grooming Needs

Golden retriever grooming is straightforward but may get tiresome. Goldens need daily brushing with a slicker brush. During shedding seasons, they must be brushed with a de-shedding tool and bathed regularly.

Golden retrievers must never be shaved but benefit from feather trimming that prevents tangling and keeps fur off the ground.

Poodles are famous for their signature “Continental” cut. Contrary to a common misconception, the purpose of this cut isn’t solely visual. Poodles have hair, not fur, so it needs regular haircuts to prevent excessive growth.

Poodles don’t need to be brushed or bathed frequently because of the haircut, but a few owners can make a proper cut on their own. For this reason, Poodle owners usually spend a lot of money on grooming.

Lifespan

Golden retriever life expectancy doesn’t exceed 12 years, which isn’t long but standard for medium-sized dogs. Poodle lifespan depends on its type. Standard Poodles live 11-13 years, miniature Poodles live 14-17 years, and toy Poodles live about 16 years.

Smaller dogs generally have a longer life expectancy, but a dog’s lifespan also depends on its diet, lifestyle, and veterinary care.

Health Issues

Common golden retriever health conditions include hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, cancer, epilepsy, skin conditions, progressive retinal atrophy, heart diseases, thyroid disorders, and ear infections.

Poodles are prone to hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, thyroid disorders, Addison’s disease, progressive retinal atrophy, eyelid problems, skin conditions, ear infections, and cancer.

Some medical conditions, such as ear infections and obesity, can be prevented with proper care and a healthy lifestyle. Others occur in most old dogs and cannot be prevented, but owners must know the symptoms to provide their dogs with timely help.

Price

Golden retriever puppies from a reputable breeder cost $1,000-$3,000 on average. Top-quality puppies with champion lineage may cost over $5,000.

Standard Poodles cost $700-$1,500 on average, while smaller varieties are priced higher, at $1,000-$2,500. Both breeds aren’t cheap, but you can find rescue goldens or Poodles for under $500.

Suitability for Inexperienced Dog Owners

Both golden retrievers and Poodles are excellent dogs for first-time owners. They aren’t low maintenance – both breeds require plenty of physical activity and regular grooming.

However, golden retrievers and Poodles are among the easiest dogs to train and are unlikely to be aggressive. They are lovely family dogs that make perfect first pets for children, teaching them responsibility.

Suitability for Apartments

Golden retrievers can live in apartments, but only if the owner dedicates enough time for walking with the dog. This breed isn’t barky and is unlikely to cause arguments with neighbors.

Poodles of all sizes, particularly small varieties, can do well in apartments with the same condition – they should get a sufficient amount of exercise outdoors. Poodles are disciplined dogs that behave well if they get the proper care.

Suitability as Service Dogs

Golden retrievers are among the most popular service dog breeds because of their intelligence, obedience, and friendliness. They can safely accompany the owner in public places without posing a threat to people around and are strong enough to perform any tasks.

Poodles make equally great service animals. However, miniature and toy Poodles have a limited physical capacity, so standard Poodles are a better choice for this purpose.

Still, miniature Poodles can help people with needs other than mobility assistance.

Suitability as Guard or Protection Dogs

Golden retrievers and Poodles can protect their owner when necessary but make poor guard dogs because they are too affectionate and friendly.

They have a low capacity to be aggressive and need to live with the family indoors.

Suitability as Hunting Dogs

Golden retrievers were born to be hunting companions. Their swimming skills and soft bite makes them ideal for retrieving waterfowl, but they can also be used for tracking animals.

Although many people can only picture Poodles on a couch or in a circus, the breed is a perfect fit for hunting.

Miniature Poodles may not be a good choice for chasing animals, but standard Poodles have all it takes to become a hunter’s best friend.

Rarity

Golden retrievers are a popular breed, but red puppies may be difficult to find.

Poodles aren’t rare either, but apricot, red, cream, sable, and café au lait colors aren’t as widespread as black or brown.

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