Golden Retriever

Sporting · Large

Siberian Husky

Working · Medium

Golden Retriever vs Siberian Husky

Side-by-side comparison of the Golden Retriever and Siberian Husky — size, temperament, shedding, trainability, cost, and compatibility ratings.

Quick comparison

Best for families

Golden Retriever

Based on good-with-kids rating

Easier to train

Golden Retriever

Based on trainability rating

Less shedding

Golden Retriever

Based on shedding level

Better for apartments

Golden Retriever

Based on apartment-friendly rating

Lower maintenance

Golden Retriever

Based on grooming needs

Longer lifespan

Siberian Husky

Based on average lifespan

Detailed comparison

Physical traits

Trait	Golden Retriever	Siberian Husky
Size	Large	Medium
Height	21.5–24″	20–23.5″
Weight	55–75 lbs	35–60 lbs
Lifespan	10–12 yrs	12–14 yrs
Group	Sporting	Working
Coat type	Double coat, long and wavy	Thick double coat, medium length

Temperament & behavior

Trait	Golden Retriever	Siberian Husky
Energy level	High	Very High
Trainability	Very High	Low
Barking level	Moderate	High

Compatibility

Trait	Golden Retriever	Siberian Husky
Good with kids	Very High	High
Good with dogs	Very High	High
Good with cats	High	Very Low
Apartment friendly	Low	Very Low

Care requirements

Trait	Golden Retriever	Siberian Husky
Shedding	Very High	Very High
Grooming needs	Moderate	Moderate
Daily exercise	60–120 min	90–120 min
Daily food	2–3 cups	1.5–2.5 cups
Annual cost	$1 500–$2 800	$1 300–$2 200

Temperament