What Smaller Dog Matches a Labrador Retriever?

Rico: What smaller size dog closely matches the temperament and characteristics of a Labrador Retriever?
I want to get a puppy and the labrador is my favorite because they are so smart and lovable. I can give it an active lifestyle but live in an urban setting and travel alot. If I could just shrink one down to about the size of a springer spaniel. Can anyone suggest a similar breed to consider? Woof.

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Answers and Views:

Answer by scarlet
Get a cocker spaniel. They are cute, smart, funny, & the most loving, loyal dog I've ever had.

Answer by think1ill2start3a4ne
I would get a small-medium sized mix or something, it's hard to do that at a shelter, they estimate but they do the best they can. we got a super tiny chihuahua puppy from CAPS, they said she'd be about 5-6 lbs… and 15 lbs later, she's full grown and looks like a tall mutant chihuahua!! but shes adorable and we love her. so my suggestion is to get a very young pup from the shelter, aim for small because the dogs generally get a lot bigger than they say they will… most likely because people generally want a tiny dog if they ask for a small dog...

Answer by Carol H
A miniature long-haired red dachshund

Answer by Meg
I have a lab/beagle mix and she is fantastic. She is even a little smaller than we thought she would get- basically 15" beagle size but yellow. We love her to pieces.
I think the beagle/lab is a great combination- if you can find someone who is breeding them. Our puppy came from an "oops" litter.
Good luck.Meg

Answer by ethansma24

It's difficult to compare to a Lab….how about a Border Collie or Australian Shepherd. Or possibly a Sheltie….Cavalier King Charles Spaniel….Boxer…look in local shelters for a lab mix? Or even like you mentioned, a Springer Spaniel.

Answer by Venuscarroll
If you want a smaller breed of dog with a lot of spunk, personality and brains I would recommend a Shih Tzu. They are really wonderful dogs, and if you don't like the long hair and the maintenance you can keep it trimmed short for a cute, easy style.

Answer by Laurie D
A miniature Labrador! : )

Actually, I grew up with Labs and Goldens and love them dearly still today. We decided to find a smaller dog, and I am SO happy that we did. We ended up with a very loyal, loveable, active, healthy PUG!! Yes, a pug.

Answer by neona807
Terriers are pretty nice dogs, I'm fond of Yorkshires myself.

Also, ex has a Shih-Tzu that is loveable and smart that is the friendliest little dog and loves to go on car rides with him.
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