Skip to main content

American Bulldog vs Labrador Retriever

Side-by-side comparison of American Bulldog and Labrador Retriever: energy, shedding, trainability, apartment fit, and more.

vs

Quick Verdict

Better fit for families with kids

Labrador Retriever

American Bulldog: size and strengthiLabrador Retriever: Often, with normal supervisioni

Easier for first-time owners

Labrador Retriever

American Bulldog: Some challengesLabrador Retriever: Beginner-friendly

Lower shedding

American Bulldog

American Bulldog: ModerateLabrador Retriever: High

Better with cats

Labrador Retriever

American Bulldog: High prey drive; intro carefullyiLabrador Retriever: Generally good with introi

Easiest to train

Labrador Retriever

American Bulldog: ModerateLabrador Retriever: High

Best for apartments

Neither ideal

American Bulldog: Size and exercise needsiLabrador Retriever: Large + high energy; strong daily routine neededi

Better for active households

Labrador Retriever

American Bulldog: Moderate to HighLabrador Retriever: High

Better alone-time tolerance

Labrador Retriever

American Bulldog: ModerateLabrador Retriever: High

Verdicts are based on trait ratings. Always evaluate individual dogs and confirm behavior with the shelter, foster, or rescue organization.

These profiles apply as trait reference tools for any dog you're evaluating.

Stats at a Glance

TraitAmerican BulldogLabrador Retriever
SizeLargeLarge
EnergyModerate to HighHigh
SheddingModerateHigh
GroomingLowLow to Moderate
TrainabilityModerateHigh
BarkingModerateModerate
Apartment FriendlyChallengingPossible (daily exercise required)
Good With KidsYes (with supervision)size and strengthYesOften, with normal supervision
Good With DogsPossible with managementSame-sex pairs especially; ongoing managementOften
Good With CatsPossible with managementHigh prey drive; intro carefullyOften with socializationGenerally good with intro
Daily Exercise60–90 min/day60–120 min/day
Typical Lifespan10–14 years10–12 years
Beginner FriendlySome challengesBeginner-friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an American Bulldog or a Labrador Retriever better for apartments?
Labrador Retriever is generally the easier apartment fit, while an American Bulldog is more conditional and usually needs more proactive management. In either case, noise tolerance, exercise routine, and building rules still matter.
Which breed sheds more, American Bulldog or Labrador Retriever?
Labrador Retriever sheds more — high shedding compared with the American Bulldog's moderate shedding. If keeping loose hair to a minimum matters, the American Bulldog usually has the advantage.
Are American Bulldogs or Labrador Retrievers easier to train?
Labrador Retriever is generally easier to train and is typically highly trainable, while the American Bulldog is moderately trainable. Both do best with consistent, reward-based training started early.
Which needs more exercise, an American Bulldog or a Labrador Retriever?
Both breeds need regular daily exercise. An American Bulldog typically needs 60–90 min/day, while a Labrador Retriever typically needs 60–120 min/day. The Labrador Retriever is usually the more demanding of the two.
Which is better with kids, an American Bulldog or a Labrador Retriever?
Labrador Retriever is more often the easier fit for homes with children, while an American Bulldog is more variable and depends more on the individual dog, training, and supervision. Calm handling and adult oversight matter with either breed.
How much grooming does an American Bulldog need compared to a Labrador Retriever?
Labrador Retriever requires more grooming — low-to-moderate grooming needs — compared with the American Bulldog's minimal grooming needs. Factor in the ongoing time and cost of regular coat maintenance if you are considering the Labrador Retriever.