What is the difference between a Labrador Retriever and a Papillon?

The Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized while the Papillon is 5–10 lbs, 8–11 in sized. They differ in size (55–80 lbs, 21–25 in vs 5–10 lbs, 8–11 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 14–16 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or Papillon?

Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids. Papillon is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Labrador Retriever or Papillon?

The Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Papillon has a lifespan of 14–16 years.

Labrador Retriever vs Papillon — Breed Comparison

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

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About the Papillon

The Papillon — French for "butterfly," referring to its elegant fringed ears — traces its lineage to European toy spaniels depicted in Renaissance paintings as far back as the 16th century. These dainty yet sturdy dogs weigh just 5 to 10 pounds and stand 8 to 11 inches tall, ranking among the smallest of all breeds. Their long, silky, single-layer coat is white with patches of any color, and the breed also has a drop-eared variety known as the Phalène.

Temperament & Personality

Papillons are remarkably intelligent, lively, and confident — consistently ranked among the top 10 smartest dog breeds despite their diminutive stature. They are friendly and affectionate with their families, though they can be reserved with strangers until properly introduced. Papillons do well with gentle older children but may be too delicate for rough play with toddlers, and they often get along with other pets when socialized early.

Pros

Exceptionally intelligent and excels in obedience and agility competitions
No undercoat means less shedding and easier maintenance than many breeds
Hardy and athletic despite tiny size — enjoys long walks and active play
Long lifespan of 14 to 16 years with generally robust health

Cons

Fragile bone structure makes them vulnerable to injury from falls or rough handling
Can be yappy and difficult to quiet without early training
Susceptible to patellar luxation, dental issues, and open fontanels
May develop "small dog syndrome" if not given consistent boundaries

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Labrador Retriever vs Papillon