What is the difference between a Brussels Griffon and a Labrador Retriever?

The Brussels Griffon is 8–10 lbs, 7–10 in sized while the Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized. They differ in size (8–10 lbs, 7–10 in vs 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 10–12 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Brussels Griffon or Labrador Retriever?

Brussels Griffon is not typically good with kids. Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Brussels Griffon or Labrador Retriever?

The Brussels Griffon has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years.

Brussels Griffon vs Labrador Retriever — Breed Comparison

About the Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon — or Griffon Bruxellois — originated in Brussels, Belgium, where it was initially bred as a stable ratter before becoming a beloved companion of Belgian nobility in the 19th century. These tiny, expressive dogs stand 7–10 inches tall and weigh 8–10 pounds, with a sturdy, thickset body that carries surprising heft for their size. They come in two coat varieties — rough (wiry, dense) and smooth (short, glossy) — in colors including red, beige, black-and-tan, and solid black.

Temperament & Personality

Brussels Griffons are spirited, curious, and remarkably self-important — they carry themselves with a confidence that far exceeds their diminutive stature. They form intense bonds with their primary person and can be quite demanding of attention, often described as "velcro dogs." While they can be good with older, respectful children, their small size and sometimes snappish nature make them unsuitable for households with toddlers or rough-handling youngsters.

Pros

Compact size makes them ideal for apartment and city living
Highly expressive and entertaining — their almost-human facial expressions are endlessly charming
Alert and vocal enough to serve as effective little watchdogs
The rough coat variety is low-shedding, suitable for those sensitive to pet hair

Cons

Can be difficult to housebreak — patience and consistency are essential
Prone to separation anxiety and may bark excessively when left alone
Fragile build makes them vulnerable to injury from rough play or falls
Brachycephalic features contribute to respiratory issues, heat sensitivity, and eye problems

These tiny dogs have enormous personalities — discover adoptable Brussels Griffons on Puplister and meet your perfect pint-sized companion.

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.

Brussels Griffon vs Labrador Retriever