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Choose two breeds. You’ll see the same strip of citeable traits — not a winner, and not kids / apartment / shedding scorecards.

Temperament lines are short plate excerpts, not a verdict. Open each plate for the full entry.

Poodle

Poodle

Non-Sporting · Germany / France

  • AKC group

    Non-Sporting

  • Size

    Large

  • Height

    over 38 cm (AKC Std)

  • Weight

    ~18–32 kg (AKC profile)

  • Energy

    High

  • Energy notes

    High. The AKC describes Poodles of every size as very active dogs that need good exercise every day.

  • Trainability

    Very high

  • Coat

    The coat is either curly, dense and of naturally harsh texture, or corded, hanging in tight, even cords.

  • Origin

    Germany / France

  • Temperament

    The AKC standard describes a proud, very active and intelligent dog and treats shyness or sharpness as a major fault. The FCI calls the Poodle renowned for its loyalty and able to learn and be trained, which makes it a particularly pleasant companion, and says it became popular for its friendly, joyful and loyal character.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever

Sporting · Scotland

  • AKC group

    Sporting

  • Size

    Large

  • Height

    51–61 cm (FCI)

  • Weight

    25–34 kg (AKC)

  • Energy

    High

  • Energy notes

    High. The AKC standard describes an active, powerful hunting dog to be shown in hard working condition, and the AKC says that, like most sporting breeds, Goldens need plenty of exercise every day.

  • Trainability

    Very high

  • Coat

    The coat is dense and water-repellent over a good undercoat, firm and resilient to the touch, and may lie straight or wavy.

  • Origin

    Scotland

  • Temperament

    Both standards describe a dog of kindly, friendly character. The AKC asks for a Golden that is friendly, reliable and trustworthy, eager, alert and self-confident, and it counts quarrelsomeness, hostility, or unwarranted timidity or nervousness as out of keeping with the breed.