Breed matchup

Beagle vs Labrador Retriever

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

Beagle

Labrador Retriever

Beagle

small · England

Labrador Retriever

large · Canada

Head-to-head

Beagle vs Labrador Retriever

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Both land in a similar high energy band. Kids compatibility is close (5/5 each). Labrador Retriever sheds more (4/5). Small to medium-sized hound with a great sense of smell. America's most popular dog breed.

small vs large

Energy 4 vs 5

short vs short

12-15 years · 10-12 years

Biggest differences

Weight

20-30 lbs

55-80 lbs

Height

13-15 inches

21-24 inches

Lifespan

12-15 years

10-12 years

Monthly cost*

$70–$130

$80–$150

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

Beagle

Small to medium-sized hound with a great sense of smell. Overall, Beagles are described as friendly, curious, merry, independent. Trainability sits around 3/5 and bark tendency around 5/5, so patience and clear boundaries matter more than force.

Friendly

Curious

Merry

Independent

Labrador Retriever

America's most popular dog breed. Overall, Labrador Retrievers are described as outgoing, even-tempered, gentle, agile. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Outgoing

Even-tempered

Gentle

Agile

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Beagle

High energy requiring daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Labrador Retriever

Highly energetic breed requiring 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose Beagle

Choose a Beagle if you want a small dog with high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit moderate. Temperament leans friendly and curious.

Choose Labrador Retriever

Choose a Labrador Retriever if you prefer large size, very high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Traits include outgoing and even-tempered.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

What is the difference between a Beagle and a Labrador Retriever?

Which is better for apartments, Beagle or Labrador Retriever?

Beagle is the stronger apartment candidate (3/5).

Which is better with kids, Beagle or Labrador Retriever?

Both rate 5/5 with children when supervised and socialized.

How do Beagle and Labrador Retriever compare on energy?

Beagle: 4/5 (high). Labrador Retriever: 5/5 (very high). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.