Labrador Retriever vs Flat-coated Retriever

Labrador Retriever
Sporting
Labrador Retrievers are friendly, intelligent, and versatile dogs known for their retrieving abilities. They make excellent family pets and service dogs.

Flat-coated Retriever
Sporting
The Flat-coated Retriever is a lively, intelligent breed known for its friendly demeanor and versatility as a hunting companion. With a solid black or liver coat, they are affectionate family pets that thrive on exercise and mental challenges.
At a Glance
| Labrador Retriever | Category | Flat-coated Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Sporting | Breed Group | Sporting |
| Canada/England | Origin | England |
| 53–61 cm | Height | 56–62 cm |
| 25–36 kg | Weight | 27–32 kg |
| 10 - 12 years | Lifespan | 10 years |
| 60 min/day | Exercise | 60 min/day |
| Double | Coat Type | Double |
| Short | Coat Length | Medium |
Ratings Comparison
| Labrador Retriever | Trait | Flat-coated Retriever |
|---|---|---|
High | Energy Level | High |
Very High | Trainability | Very High |
Very High | Affection | Very High |
Very High | Intelligence | Very High |
High | Shedding | Moderate |
High | Grooming Ease | High |
Low | Barking | Moderate |
Very High | Good w/ Kids | Very High |
Very High | Good w/ Pets | High |
Moderate | Apartment | Moderate |
Very High | Families | Very High |
High | First-Time Owners | High |
Very High | Playfulness | High |
Low | Drooling | Low |
Labrador Retriever vs Flat-coated Retriever FAQ
Is a Labrador Retriever or Flat-coated Retriever better for families?+
Both the Labrador Retriever and Flat-coated Retriever rate equally well for families with a score of 5/5.
Which is easier to train, a Labrador Retriever or Flat-coated Retriever?+
Both breeds score 5/5 for trainability, making them equally easy to train.
Does a Labrador Retriever or Flat-coated Retriever shed more?+
The Labrador Retriever has a shedding level of 4/5, while the Flat-coated Retriever scores 3/5. The Labrador Retriever sheds more.
Does a Labrador Retriever or Flat-coated Retriever need more exercise?+
The Labrador Retriever needs about 60 minutes of daily exercise, while the Flat-coated Retriever requires around 60 minutes. Both need similar amounts of exercise.
Which lives longer, a Labrador Retriever or Flat-coated Retriever?+
The Labrador Retriever has an average lifespan of 10 - 12 years, while the Flat-coated Retriever lives approximately 10 years.
Which is better for apartment living, a Labrador Retriever or Flat-coated Retriever?+
Both breeds score 3/5 for apartment suitability.