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A Comparison of Golden Retrievers and Flat-Coated Retrievers

Written by Bunny James

For convenience and brevity, I will refer to these two breeds as GRs & FCRs.

Physical differences: While these two breeds will be of similar height, GRs will weigh more than FCRs. GRs have a much thicker bone structure. Both breeds carry shorter flat body coat with longer feathering at chest, rear, and tail. GRs have an undercoat which means that they have at least a third more hair than a FCR. Therefore, coat maintenance of a GR is more time consuming.

Health differences: GRs have a higher percentage of hip dysplasia problems. FCRs have a higher incidence of luxating patellas (rear kneecaps). GRs must be cleared for SAS - subaortic stenosis, prior to breeding. Both breeds require eye clearances. Both breeds are susceptible to cancer.

Temperament differences: GRs will love everyone. FCRs will love their family and like everyone else. GRs like to be with their family. FCRs must be with their family. Both breeds do very well with children. As puppies, both breeds are drawn to small children and often treat them with rough play. Parents must consider this. Both breeds generally interact with other dogs quite well.

Personality differences: GRs mature at a normal rate, housebreak quickly, are fairly loyal, quite intelligent, eager to please, and make excellent housedogs. FCRs mature very slowly, housebreak easily, are extremely loyal, very intelligent, try to please, and also make excellent housedogs. A FCR must be your "best friend" at all times. They require interaction with a family member. They will follow you throughout the house. They do very poorly if left outside for long periods. You must not ignore your FCR. GRs also appreciate this interaction without the overwhelming need for it. Both breeds, however, are totally inappropriate as "backyard dogs".

Training differences: With their normal maturing rate and eagerness to please, GRs are one of the easiest to train. With the FCRs slower maturing rate, you must expect a longer training period. Their high intelligence allows them to learn quickly. However, their slow maturation does not allow early consistency. They do require more patience and understanding.