Flat-coated Retriever
Cheerful, optimistic and forever playful, the Flat-coated Retriever is an affectionate family dog that stays young at heart all its life.
Flat-coated Retriever vs Golden Retriever
Side by side
| Trait | Flat-coated Retriever | Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 25–36 kg | 25–34 kg |
| Height at withers | 56–62 cm | 51–61 cm |
| Life expectancy | 8–10 years | 10–12 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Longer life expectancy: Golden Retriever (about 11 years vs 9 years on average)
- Sheds more: Golden Retriever (5/5 vs 3/5)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Golden Retriever
Gentle, patient and always good-natured, the Golden Retriever is one of the best family dogs, but it copes poorly with strong heat.