Boston Terrier vs Labrador Retriever

Which dog breed is right for you?

Boston Terrier

Size
12–25 lbs, 15–17 in
Lifespan
11–13 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Friendly Bright Amusing Adaptable

Labrador Retriever

Size
55–80 lbs, 21–25 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Friendly Outgoing Active Gentle

About the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier — affectionately known as the "American Gentleman" — was developed in Boston, Massachusetts, in the late 1800s from crosses between English Bulldogs and white English Terriers. Standing 15–17 inches tall and weighing 12–25 pounds, they come in three weight classes and sport a compact, well-proportioned build with a distinctive tuxedo-like coat pattern. Their short, smooth coat appears in black-and-white, brindle-and-white, or seal-and-white — always with the characteristic white blaze, muzzle band, and chest marking.

Temperament & Personality

Boston Terriers are lively, intelligent, and brimming with personality — they have a wonderful sense of humor and seem to know exactly how to make their owners laugh. They are exceptionally friendly with people of all ages, including children and seniors, and typically get along well with other dogs and cats. Their moderate energy level and adaptable nature make them equally happy on a brisk walk or curled up on the couch.

Pros

  • Perfect apartment dog — compact size, moderate exercise needs, and minimal barking
  • Friendly and sociable with virtually everyone, including strangers and other pets
  • Low-maintenance coat requiring only occasional brushing
  • Highly adaptable temperament that suits first-time owners and experienced dog people alike

Cons

  • Brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure causes breathing difficulties, snoring, and heat intolerance
  • Prone to eye injuries and conditions like cataracts, cherry eye, and corneal ulcers
  • Can be stubborn about housetraining despite their intelligence
  • Susceptible to patellar luxation and spinal issues due to their compact build

Boston Terriers are the perfect blend of charm and companionship — find adoptable Boston Terriers on Puplister now.

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has been America's most popular dog breed for over three decades — and for good reason. Originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, during the early 19th century to help fishermen haul nets and retrieve catch from the icy North Atlantic, the breed was refined in England into the versatile sporting dog we know today. Labs stand 21.5–24.5 inches tall and weigh 55–80 pounds, with a short, dense, water-resistant double coat in three recognized colors: black, yellow (ranging from fox-red to pale cream), and chocolate.

Temperament & Personality

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited — they greet nearly every person, dog, and situation with unbridled enthusiasm and a wagging tail. They are exceptionally patient and gentle with children, making them one of the most trusted family dogs in the world. Labs are also remarkably intelligent and eager to please, which is why they dominate as guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and detection dogs across dozens of working disciplines.

Pros

  • Outstanding family dog — patient, gentle, and naturally good with children of all ages
  • Highly trainable and eager to please — consistently ranks among the most obedient breeds
  • Versatile and adaptable — equally at home on the couch, in the field, or in the water
  • Friendly and social temperament — gets along well with other dogs, cats, and strangers

Cons

  • Heavy shedding year-round with major seasonal blowouts — not suited for allergy sufferers
  • Prone to obesity — Labs are notoriously food-motivated and will eat anything not locked away
  • High energy in the first 2–3 years — requires substantial daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior
  • Susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, exercise-induced collapse, and progressive retinal atrophy

There's a reason the Lab is the world's favorite dog — discover adoptable Labrador Retrievers on Puplister today.

Available for Adoption

12

Boston Terriers

Browse

303

Labrador Retrievers

Browse

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Boston Terrier and a Labrador Retriever?
The Boston Terrier is 12–25 lbs, 15–17 in sized while the Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized. They differ in size (12–25 lbs, 15–17 in vs 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in), lifespan (11–13 years vs 10–12 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Boston Terrier or Labrador Retriever?
Boston Terrier is generally good with kids. Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Boston Terrier or Labrador Retriever?
The Boston Terrier has a lifespan of 11–13 years while the Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Dogs