vs

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

Compare Yorkshire Terrier and Golden Retriever 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

12–15 years

10–12 years

Weight

2.7–3.6 kg

25–34 kg

Height

20–25 cm

51–61 cm

Origin

England

United States

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

The Golden Retriever and Yorkshire Terrier are two popular dog breeds, each with distinct characteristics that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. The Golden Retriever is a larger, friendly breed known for its intelligence, trainability, and sociability, making it an excellent family pet. In contrast, the Yorkshire Terrier is a small, energetic breed that thrives in apartment settings and is also known for its affectionate nature. While both breeds are good with kids and suitable for first-time owners, they differ significantly in size, exercise needs, and grooming requirements. This comparison will help potential owners determine which breed aligns better with their living situation and personal preferences.

Yorkshire Terrier — Advantages

Small and apartment-friendly
Low shedding, making it easier to maintain cleanliness
Good for first-time owners
Moderate energy level suitable for less active households
Affectionate and good with children

Disadvantages

Less trainable compared to Golden Retriever
Higher grooming difficulty due to long coat
Can be noisy, which may not suit all environments
May require more attention to avoid separation anxiety

Golden Retriever — Advantages

Friendly and sociable nature
Highly trainable and intelligent
Good with children
Moderate energy level suitable for active families
Loyal and protective without being overly aggressive