Golden Retriever vs Labrador: what’s the difference?

Short answer

They’re close in size under the AKC standards and in a 2024 UK study lived about as long: 13.1 years for Labs, 13.2 for Goldens. The Lab has a short, dense coat and otter tail; the Golden a longer, feathered coat that needs more brushing. Cancer is the Golden’s best-known health concern.