Labrador Retriever vs Vizsla
Side-by-side comparison for prospective owners weighing both breeds.
| Trait | Labrador Retriever | Vizsla |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 55–80 lbs | 44–60 lbs |
| Lifespan | 10–12 yrs | 12–14 yrs |
| Est. monthly cost | $90–$150 | $90–$150 |
| Energy level | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Vocalization |
Where Labrador Retriever and Vizsla differ most
- Shedding: Labrador Retriever 5/5 · Vizsla 2/5Labrador Retriever much sheds more
- Lifespan: Labrador Retriever 10–12 yrs · Vizsla 12–14 yrsVizsla much longer-lived
- Adult weight: Labrador Retriever 55–80 lbs · Vizsla 44–60 lbsLabrador Retriever heavier
- Daily exercise: Labrador Retriever ~60 min · Vizsla ~90 minVizsla needs more
- Grooming needs: Labrador Retriever 2/5 · Vizsla 1/5Labrador Retriever more upkeep
- Good with other pets: Labrador Retriever 5/5 · Vizsla 4/5Labrador Retriever rated higher
Full trait-by-trait breakdown
| Trait | Labrador Retriever | Vizsla | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult weight | 55–80 lbs | 44–60 lbs | Labrador Retriever heavier |
| Energy level | 5/5 | 5/5 | About the same |
| Daily exercise | ~60 min | ~90 min | Vizsla needs more |
| Grooming needs | 2/5 | 1/5 | Labrador Retriever more upkeep |
| Shedding | 5/5 | 2/5 | Labrador Retriever much sheds more |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 5/5 | About the same |
| Good with kids | 5/5 | 5/5 | About the same |
| Good with other pets | 5/5 | 4/5 | Labrador Retriever rated higher |
| Vocalization | 2/5 | 2/5 | About the same |
| Lifespan | 10–12 yrs | 12–14 yrs | Vizsla much longer-lived |
| Est. monthly cost | $90–150 | $90–150 | About the same |
Which one should you choose?
Both are affectionate, trainable sporting breeds, but the Vizsla is the more intensely people-attached of the two, often shadowing its person around the house and struggling with prolonged solo time. The Labrador is similarly devoted but generally more tolerant of being left alone and a bit steadier overall in temperament.
Coat care favors the Vizsla for its minimal short coat, while the Labrador sheds substantially and needs more consistent brushing despite its similarly low grooming-styling needs. Both are excellent with children and thrive with an active handler committed to daily exercise and structured training.
Choose the Vizsla if you want an especially devoted companion and can genuinely avoid extended time alone. Choose the Labrador if a steadier, easygoing family retriever with heavier seasonal shedding suits your household better — it's generally the more forgiving pick for a first-time owner.
Whichever breed fits your life, consider adoption or breed-specific rescue first — many purebred and mixed-breed dogs and cats are already waiting for homes.
General breed information, not veterinary advice — consult a vet for your pet's specific health, diet, and behavior needs.