Golden/Flat Coated Retrievers

[FancyThatForABagOfChips]

Thinking of getting one of these breeds. Could anyone tell me the differences and any bad points they may have? (Not bothered about hair)

My sister has a Flattie and he is a lovely dog, not the sharpest tool in the box but hasn’t got a bad bone in his body. He was hard work for about the first 3 years though - difficult to train and generally just silly, prone to knocking things over with his tail a lot! Not as clever as Goldies and don’t live as long, usually. They don’t seem as popular as Goldies for some reason, not sure why.

Flatcoats are lovely but very prone to cancer, do your research.

We have one Goldie and one half Goldie / half flat coated Retriever. I think the differences are pretty marginal to be honest, both really loyal, lovely family dogs, very affectionate, great temperaments.

Our half flat-coated is more muscular, a really strong swimmer (we live by the sea) and has more energy so needs more exercise. Her coat is really smooth and she doesn't moult or need grooming as much. She's been a bit easier to train although was a nightmare with chewing for a long time.

There is info online on the differences between the two.

I have a flattie. He is very bright, cheeky and funny. He is also a thief, drops hair everywhere, eats poo, and digs up the garden. He can open every single door in our house unless it is locked. He has been though 2 “dog proof” bins. They are not easy dogs, they need a lot of attention, not just regular walks as they really like to be “involved” in whatever you are doing but they are fantastic family dogs. We love ours!

Flatties are nuts and goldens quieter. I would never get another flatcoat having lost two to cancer far too young. Flatcoats are known as the Peter Pans of the dog world as they remain very puppyish and enthusiastic with a great zest for life even as they age.

For a family with young children, I would go for a golden.

Both shed quite a lot but it's longer hair so easier to keep on top of.

Just do your research and choose a reputable KCC breeder whichever you go for.

We have an 7 year old flattie & 3 children under 5. The first three years were a bit nuts. He was bonkers but consistent training, walks, lots of attention mean he is a lovely dog now. Although still quite puppy like. Not an ounce of aggression & loves our dc. Its right to say they like to be involved with what you are doing, they like company. Not had a problem with chewing. I would definitely get another flattie.

Flat-coats are infamous for early deaths due to cancer. Save yourself the heartbreak and get a goldie. A friend has now got a working cocker after a lifetime of flatties, but the last two barely made 8.