vs

Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.

Compare Golden Retriever and Scottish Terrier side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly
No
Yes
Good with kids
Yes
No
Good for first-time owners
Yes
No
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span
10–12 years
12–15 years
Weight
25–34 kg
8.5–10.5 kg
Height
51–61 cm
25–28 cm
Origin
United States
Scotland
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Golden Retriever and the Scottish Terrier are two distinct dog breeds with unique characteristics that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. The Golden Retriever, originating from the United States, is known for its friendly demeanor, high sociability, and suitability for families, especially those with children. In contrast, the Scottish Terrier, hailing from Scotland, is a smaller breed that tends to be more independent and less sociable, making it less ideal for families with young kids. While Golden Retrievers have a higher energy level and require more exercise, Scottish Terriers are more adaptable to apartment living. This comparison will help potential pet owners understand the strengths and weaknesses of each breed to make an informed decision.

Golden Retriever — Advantages

Friendly and sociable
Good with kids
Highly trainable
Playful and energetic
Lower noise level

Disadvantages

Requires more exercise
Not apartment-friendly
Can struggle to stay alone
Moderate shedding
Moderate grooming difficulty

Scottish Terrier — Advantages

Good for apartment living
Can stay alone better
Lower shedding level
Adaptable to cold climates
Moderate grooming difficulty

Disadvantages

Less sociable
Not good with kids
Not ideal for first-time owners
Lower energy level
Higher noise level

Frequently Asked Questions

Which breed is better for families?

The Golden Retriever is better for families as it is good with kids and highly sociable.

Can Scottish Terriers live in apartments?

Yes, Scottish Terriers are apartment-friendly and can adapt to smaller living spaces.

How much exercise do these breeds need?

Golden Retrievers require more exercise compared to Scottish Terriers, who have lower exercise needs.

Are Golden Retrievers good for first-time dog owners?

Yes, Golden Retrievers are considered good for first-time owners due to their trainability and friendly nature.

Do Scottish Terriers shed a lot?

No, Scottish Terriers have a lower shedding level compared to Golden Retrievers.

free Golden Retriever adoption listings

all listings in this category

free Scottish Terrier adoption listings

all listings in this category