I have owned both, and I don't think you could go wrong with either one! The lab we had was a male, and he was quite the energetic one. But he had nothing on my Golden, Honey, who is a very, very energetic girl. My second Golden, Lilly, is as laid back as they come.

I will say this (Sorry Dixieland): they both shed profusely and require regular brushing, but I don't think the maintenance on a lab is as hard because their fur is shorter and you don't get matts and tangles. Every mat and tangle I fight with now is well worth it though....I couldn't ask for better companions than my two lovely lady Golden Retrievers.

Whatever you decide, you will be very happy. Just be prepared to invest the time and energy into these wonderful dogs. And you might consider a Lab or Golden Retriever rescue. There are many adults looking for homes too. That's where my next one will come from.