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Compare Labrador Retriever and Havanese 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

Yes

Good with kids

Yes

Good for first-time owners

Yes

Shedding

Noise level

Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span

10–12 years

12–15 years

Weight

25–36 kg

4.5–8.1 kg

Height

55–62 cm

23–30 cm

Origin

Canada

Cuba

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

When comparing the Labrador Retriever and the Havanese, potential pet owners will find distinct differences in size, lifespan, and adaptability. The Labrador Retriever is a larger breed, weighing between 25 to 36 kg and standing 55 to 62 cm tall, making it suitable for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. In contrast, the Havanese is a small breed, weighing only 4.5 to 8.1 kg and measuring 23 to 30 cm in height, which makes it ideal for apartment living. Additionally, the Labrador has a shorter lifespan of 10 to 12 years, while the Havanese can live longer, between 12 to 15 years. Both breeds are sociable and good with children, but their energy levels and exercise needs differ significantly, with the Labrador requiring more activity. This overview highlights the key considerations for families choosing between these two popular breeds.

Labrador Retriever — Advantages

Great for active families
Highly trainable
Good with kids
Friendly and sociable
Moderate grooming needs

Disadvantages

Requires more exercise
Not apartment-friendly
Can be noisy
Moderate shedding
May struggle when left alone for long periods

Havanese — Advantages

Ideal for apartment living
Longer lifespan
Lower exercise needs
Less shedding
Good for first-time owners

Disadvantages

Smaller size may not suit all families
Less trainable than Labrador
Lower energy level
Can be more sensitive to cold climates
May require more grooming than expected