Breed matchup

Labrador Retriever vs Sussex Spaniel

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

Labrador Retriever

Sussex Spaniel

Labrador Retriever

large · Canada

Sussex Spaniel

medium · England

Head-to-head

Labrador Retriever vs Sussex Spaniel

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Labrador Retriever runs very high energy vs Sussex Spaniel's low to moderate. Kids compatibility is close (5/5 each). Labrador Retriever sheds more (4/5). America's most popular dog breed. Medium-sized spaniel with a golden liver coat.

Derived from breed profile scores—not a substitute for meeting dogs or consulting professionals.

large vs medium

Energy 5 vs 2

short vs medium

10-12 years · 11-13 years

Biggest differences

Weight

55-80 lbs

35-45 lbs

Height

21-24 inches

13-15 inches

Lifespan

10-12 years

11-13 years

Monthly cost*

$80–$150

$70–$130

*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.

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

Sussex Spaniel

Medium-sized spaniel with a golden liver coat. Overall, Sussex Spaniels are described as gentle, intelligent, loyal, calm. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Gentle

Intelligent

Loyal

Calm

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Labrador Retriever

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

Sussex Spaniel

Low energy requiring moderate daily walks and playtime.

Who should choose which?

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

Choose Labrador Retriever

Choose a Labrador Retriever if you want a large dog with very high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Temperament leans outgoing and even-tempered.

Choose Sussex Spaniel

Choose a Sussex Spaniel if you prefer medium size, low to moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit moderate. Traits include gentle and intelligent.

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 Labrador Retriever and a Sussex Spaniel?

Which is better for apartments, Labrador Retriever or Sussex Spaniel?

Sussex Spaniel is the stronger apartment candidate (3/5).

Which is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or Sussex Spaniel?

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

How do Labrador Retriever and Sussex Spaniel compare on energy?

Labrador Retriever: 5/5 (very high). Sussex Spaniel: 2/5 (low to moderate). 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.