Temperament & behavior
Kind, confident, biddable. Typically wonderful with children and strangers. More sensitive than a Lab — harsh corrections hurt their feelings and set training back.
Likes, dislikes & how they play
💙 What they love
- Carrying things (socks, toys, your sleeve)
- Swimming
- Fetch and soft-mouth games
- Everyone they have ever met
🚫 What they hate
- Being excluded from the family
- Harsh scolding
- Long solitude
Fetch, swim, carry-and-parade. Puzzles and snuffle mats suit their softer energy. Loves games that end in gently returning things to you.
Shedding & grooming
Shedding: High. Thick double coat; sheds constantly, blows seasonally. Brush 2–3× per week.
Brush regularly to prevent feather-mats behind ears and legs; bath every 6–8 weeks; ears weekly.
Aggression tendencies — the honest read
| Toward | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Strangers | Very low |
| Other dogs | Low |
One of the least aggressive breeds in temperament studies. Guarding is not in the job description — they may greet an intruder with a toy.
Exercise needs
60–90 per day per day. Moderate-high. Enjoys long walks, swims, and field games.
Good with…?
- Kids: Excellent
- Other pets: Excellent
- First-time owners: Yes
Health risks to know upfront
- Cancer rates are notably elevated in the breed (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Weight gain
Is this breed right for you?
Any affectionate household able to give daily exercise and companionship.
Before choosing, read the complete pre-dog checklist — most mismatches are preventable with one honest evening of planning.
