Dalmatian
large breedVS
Labrador Retriever
large breedDalmatian vs Labrador Retriever
The spotted athlete meets the all-American retriever. Both are medium-large, athletic, and family-oriented. But the Dalmatian's intensity and unique health needs set it apart from the easier-going Lab.
At a Glance
Dalmatian
Stat
Labrador Retriever
45–70 lbs
Weight
55–80 lbs
19–24 inches
Height
21–24 inches
11–13 yrs
Lifespan
10–14 yrs
very-high
Energy
high
low
Grooming
low
moderate
Chewing
heavy
large
Size Class
large
Key Differences
1Energy
Dalmatians need 90+ min intense exercise. Labs need 60-90 min.
2Health
Dalmatians face unique uric acid issues and deafness. Labs face more common issues.
3Coat
Dalmatians shed year-round in white hairs. Labs shed seasonally.
4Temperament
Labs are easygoing. Dalmatians are more intensive and sensitive.
Health Comparison
Dalmatian Health Concerns
- ⚠Kidney Disease
- ⚠Patellar Luxation
- ⚠Allergies
- ⚠Deafness
Labrador Retriever Health Concerns
- ⚠Hip Dysplasia
- ⚠Elbow Dysplasia
- ⚠Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- ⚠Heart Disease
Temperament
Dalmatian
DignifiedSmartOutgoing
Labrador Retriever
OutgoingActiveGentleIntelligentTrusting
🏆 Our Verdict
Choose Lab for easygoing family companionship. Choose Dalmatian if you love running and want a unique, striking companion.
Choose Dalmatian if...
First-time owners. Families wanting easy, social dogs.
Learn more about Dalmatian →Choose Labrador Retriever if...
Experienced owners wanting an athletic, unique companion. Runners and cyclists.
Learn more about Labrador Retriever →Dietary Needs
Dalmatian
Labrador Retriever
- 🍖 Highly food motivated - watch portions
- 🍖 Prone to weight gain
- 🍖 Benefits from joint-supporting nutrients
Recommended Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Better first-time?▼
Labs significantly easier for first-time owners.
More striking?▼
Dalmatians are more visually unique.
Healthier?▼
Labs have fewer unusual health issues.
Better with kids?▼
Labs better with young kids. Dalmatians with older kids.
Lives longer?▼
Both 10-13 years.