Belgian Tervuren vs Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever has a slight edge with children (5/5 vs 4/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Golden Retriever's friendly temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.

Life expectancy favors the Belgian Tervuren: 12–14 years versus the Golden Retriever's 10–12 years. For many families, those extra years together are a compelling reason to lean toward the Belgian Tervuren.

The Belgian Tervuren needs slightly more exercise (5/5) than the Golden Retriever (4/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have very high to high energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Belgian Tervuren.

One of the most important factors in choosing between these two breeds is temperament. The Belgian Tervuren is typically intelligent, courageous and alert, making them well suited for experienced-owners, active lifestyles and working-roles.

Purchase prices are in the same ballpark: $1,500–$3,000 for a Belgian Tervuren and $800–$2,500 for a Golden Retriever. The initial investment won't differ dramatically between these two breeds.

The Golden Retriever sheds a bit more (5/5) than the Belgian Tervuren (4/5). It's not a night-and-day difference, but if you prefer a cleaner home, the Belgian Tervuren has a slight edge.

The Belgian Tervuren stands 56–66 cm (22–26 in) and weighs 20–30 kg (44–66 lbs), while the Golden Retriever measures 51–61 cm (20–24 in) and 25–34 kg (55–75 lbs). The Golden Retriever is the larger of the two, though not by a dramatic margin.

Both breeds score 5/5 for trainability — you'll have a similar experience training either one. Both are cooperative, eager learners.