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German Shorthaired Pointer vs Labrador Retriever

Two sporting breeds for active homes; the Pointer is more energetic with a low-shedding coat, the Labrador easier for first-timers and better with children.

German Shorthaired Pointer profileLabrador Retriever profile

Verdict

The German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever are friendly sporting dogs that both need a lot of daily exercise. Each does well with children and suits an outdoorsy household with time to train, and neither is a match for someone who is out all day or wants a quiet pet.

The Pointer is the more intense, asking for 90 minutes or more, and it sheds less and needs little grooming, but it is rated poorly for apartments and for first-time owners. The Labrador sits a notch lower on energy, scores higher for trainability and for children, and is often recommended as a first dog, though it sheds heavily and needs its weight watched.

Choose the German Shorthaired Pointer if

  • You hunt, run or hike and want a high-energy partner
  • You are experienced and have a fenced yard
  • You prefer a short coat that sheds less
  • You can give 90 minutes or more every day

Choose the Labrador Retriever if

  • This is your first dog and you want an easy learner
  • Your household includes young children
  • You enjoy swimming and fetch more than long runs
  • You accept heavy shedding and will manage its appetite

Side by side

German Shorthaired Pointer Labrador Retriever
AKC group Sporting Group Sporting Group
Size class Medium Large
Typical weight 45 to 70 lb 55 to 80 lb
Height 21 to 25 in at the shoulder 21.5 to 24.5 in at the shoulder
Typical lifespan 10 to 12 years 10 to 12 years
AKC popularity, 2025 9 of 202 2 of 202
Shedding Moderate Very heavy
Grooming needs Minimal Low
Energy Very high High
Trainability Easy Very easy
Barking Barks sometimes Seldom barks
With children Very good Excellent
Apartment living Poor Fair
First-time owners Challenging Good
Heat tolerance Average Average
Cold tolerance Average Good
Temperament
  • energetic
  • intelligent
  • affectionate
  • eager
  • friendly
  • outgoing
  • eager to please
  • active
Health concerns to know about
  • hip dysplasia
  • bloat
  • lymphedema
  • heart conditions
  • ear and skin problems
  • hip and elbow dysplasia
  • obesity
  • ear infections
  • exercise-induced collapse
  • eye conditions
Suits
  • hunters
  • runners and hikers
  • experienced owners with an active routine
  • active families
  • first-time owners
  • people who enjoy swimming and fetch

Facts and ratings come from each breed's profile. They describe a breed as a whole, and individual dogs vary, so meet the dog before you choose.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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