If you’ve ever said, “What a beautiful Golden Retriever,” and been told, “Actually, it’s a Labrador,” congratulations! You’re just like everyone else. The funny thing is, many continue to make mistakes even after the difference is explained to them.

In fact, these breeds are very similar. But there are details that will tell you apart in a second. We’ll tell you how.

Labradors and golden retrievers are related breeds. They were bred for the same purpose: helping hunters retrieve game from water.

This, by the way, is the source of such love for bodies of water.

They are very similar in appearance: drooping ears, a strong body, kind eyes and a facial expression that says, “Well, tell me I’m a good boy?!”

But there is still a difference.

Wool is the main “exposer”

The Labrador has short, thick, smooth fur.

The golden retriever has a long, soft, wavy coat with beautiful feathering and a thick, waterproof undercoat.

So if a dog literally looks like a plush blanket, it’s probably not a Labrador.

But the wool is not the most insidious part.

Color is the main “manipulator”

It’s the color that experts usually get into trouble.

Labradors come in black and chocolate. No questions there.

But also… fawn. And it’s this last color that’s the main source of confusion.

Yellow Labradors can be almost white or cream. And when we see such a beauty, our brains automatically respond, “That’s definitely a golden retriever!”

Character: the first one is “let’s go”, the second one is “thought about it and went”

Both breeds are kind, but their temperaments are different.

“Oh, ball! Oh, second ball! Oh, third ball!”

It’s all about the Labrador.

Dogs of this breed live with an inner sense that a celebration is about to begin. Their puppyhood never ends: not at one year, not at ten years.

And yes, they are always hungry. Always!

Golden retrievers are calmer and more thoughtful. They’ll look first and then decide whether to chase the ball (most likely, yes!). It’s as if they have emotional intelligence.