Pit Bull vs. Labrador Retriever: 3 Key Differences

Pit bulls and Labrador retrievers are popular breeds in the USA. While these two dogs have many differences, there are a few similarities, like they are good with children and require a lot of exercise. But, if you are unsure which breed to get, they have several key differences that might sway your decision. For example, pit bulls aren’t as intelligent as Labradors, and the latter is also fairly obedient. In addition, they have very different temperaments. Therefore, continue reading to learn about pit bulls vs. Labrador retrievers: three key differences.

Pit Bull vs. Labrador Retriever: A Comparison 

Key Differences Between Pit Bulls and Labrador Retrievers

There are three key differences when it comes to Pit bulls Vs. Labrador retrievers. They include:

Appearance

Labradors and pit bulls look entirely different. As a result, both breeds are easily distinguished in terms of physical appearance and coat. They are so different that even someone who doesn’t know about dogs would be able to tell them apart.

Height

Labrador retrievers are medium to large-sized dogs, with females measuring between 21 to 24 inches tall and males reaching 22 to 25 inches tall. However, pit bulls are much shorter and stockier. Females reach 14 to 20 inches tall, while males measure around 18 to 21 inches tall.

Weight

Once a Labrador retriever reaches adulthood, it can weigh between 55 to 85 pounds, while pit bulls weigh approximately 35 to 65 pounds.

Coat Type

Labrador retrievers usually have a short, dense double coat, while pitties have a smooth, single-layer coat.

Colors

Labrador retrievers come in three recognized colors, yellow, chocolate, and black. However pit bulls have glossy coats that come in several colors, but the three most common are red, black, and buckskin.

Characteristics

Pit bulls Vs. Labradors, how do their characteristics compare? Well, they have one similarity, both breeds are friendly if they receive the proper training.

Pit Bull vs. Labrador Retriever: Temperament

While this may shock many people, pit bulls are actually very friendly if socialized and trained from puppies. Furthermore, they are not only friendly towards humans but also enjoy the company of other dogs. In addition, they are devoutly loyal to their owners and fantastic with children, coin the nickname “the nanny dog.” But they have a terrible reputation as aggressive dogs. However, pitties only exhibit this behavior if abused or socialized incorrectly. One big difference between pit bulls and Labradors is their guarding tendencies. The latter is not as protective as pit bulls.

Labrador retrievers are mischievous, social, trusting, and playful. They rarely show signs of aggression towards their owners and even strangers. Therefore, they are a popular breed amongst families with young children. However, their friendly behavior makes them terrible guard dogs. For example, instead of barking or showing aggression towards strangers, they will run up to them for a pat or cuddle unless trained otherwise.

Pit Bull vs. Labrador Retriever: Social Needs

One of the Labrador retrievers’ most common personality traits is a need for attention. For example, if your lab constantly whines, paws at you, or follows you everywhere, they may be looking for attention. They may be so needy it could become annoying. Potential owners must realize that labs are social animals and crave constant attention. So, a Labrador may not be the right dog for you if you cannot provide it with lots of love and care.

Pit bulls also enjoy attention and can become quite clingy due to their breeding. For example, these dogs are currently bred for human companionship and crave their owner’s attention. It is not uncommon for pitties to follow their owners around, and they tend to suffer from separation anxiety.

The best way to give your dog attention and socialization is by spending quality time with it, going for walks, or playing with them in the backyard.

Health Factors

Labradors and pit bulls are both relatively healthy dogs. However, both breeds are prone to a few health conditions.

Pit Bull vs. Labrador Retriever: Life Expectancy

Labradors tend to live longer than pit bulls; of course, there are exceptions to the rule. However, they typically live for 12 to 14 years. Pit bulls have a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years.

Pit Bull vs. Labrador Retriever: Health Problems

Both breeds can live quite long with a healthy diet, exercise, and regular vet checkups. However, labs and pitties are both prone to several health conditions. For example, pit bulls often get skin disorders because of their short hair. Other health conditions include:

• Itchy allergies
• Sunburns
• Skin cancer
• Benign tumors

Additionally, pit bulls are also susceptible to knee complications and hip dysplasia. So, while it is good to keep your pittie active, always keep an eye out for irregular walking and limping, which means there may be problems with the dog’s joints.

Labradors aren’t immune to health conditions. They have their fair share of problems too. While they are also prone to skin conditions, this breed is notorious for gaining weight. Furthermore, they suffer from knee complications and hip dysplasia. Unfortunately, an overweight lab is also prone to conditions like:

• Gastrointestinal problems
• Ligament tears
• Joint issues

Pit Bull Vs. Labrador Retriever Trainability

Pit Bulls can be challenging to train. In addition, they are not the best choice for people that don’t have time to give them proper attention. This breed needs to be trained and socialized from pups to overcome their tendencies of being bossy or stubborn, which, combined with their strength, can make them hard to handle. Furthermore, they must always be on a leash when in public, as pit bulls can be aggressive toward other pets. And unless you know for sure that your pittie is good with other dogs, they should never be let loose in dog parks. They might not start the fight, but their stubborn nature won’t let them back down from one, and they will fight until they can’t fight anymore.

Conversely, labradors are easy to train, especially if you make training sessions fun and motivating. With the promise of treats, this breed will work hard to follow whatever instructions you give them. In addition, they love to please their owners, which is a great motivator during training. While Labradors are social dogs, they still need training and socialization, but they get along well with other dogs and pets.

Grooming

Pit bulls don’t need much grooming. Their short coats are easy to clean and can be wiped down with a damp cloth instead of bathing them. They only require a bath when extremely dirty. Furthermore, these dogs only need a good brush once a week. Moreover, they need their teeth brushed at least three times a week, and their nails need to be trimmed when they start touching the floor. Lastly, you must clean their ears at least once a month or take them to the vet or a groomer if you don’t have time.

While Labrador retrievers have longer fur, their grooming schedule is similar to pit bulls. They require a thorough brush at least once a week unless shedding, then three times a week.