Curly Coated Retriever vs Flat Coated Retriever
| Attribute | Curly Coated Retriever | Flat Coated Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Height | 58 - 69 cm | 56 - 62 cm |
| Weight | 35 kg | 29 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 11 years | 9 years |
| FCI Group | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs |
| Grooming | Low | Low |
| Shedding | Low | Medium |
| Energy Level | High | Very high |
| Trainability | Medium | High |
| Child Friendly | Medium | High |
| Character | The Curly Coated Retriever is an intelligent and confident dog with a strong work ethic. | The Flat Coated Retriever is a lively and cheerful companion known for its friendly nature and lasting playfulness. |
How we compare
This comparison is based on structured breed data from our Hundeo profiles and editorial fit criteria. It is meant as orientation, not as a substitute for individual advice from a trainer or veterinarian.
- Data basis: size, weight, life expectancy, FCI group, and profile details come from maintained breed profiles.
- Everyday fit: grooming, activity, trainability, child-friendliness, and living situation are evaluated as guidance for common owner questions.
- Independence: breed comparisons do not contain paid placements; recommendations follow the criteria, not commissions.
- Limits: every dog is individual. Health, behavior, and training questions should be discussed with a veterinarian or qualified trainer when needed.
Comparison
Curly Coated Retriever
Flat Coated Retriever
- 1Energy LevelCurly Coated Retriever4/5Flat Coated Retriever5/5
- 2TrainabilityCurly Coated Retriever3/5Flat Coated Retriever4/5
- 3Child FriendlyCurly Coated Retriever3/5Flat Coated Retriever4/5
- 4GroomingCurly Coated Retriever2/5Flat Coated Retriever2/5
- 5SheddingCurly Coated Retriever2/5Flat Coated Retriever3/5
Summary
The Curly Coated Retriever is a large dog (35 kg) with a life expectancy of 11 years. The Flat Coated Retriever is large (29 kg) and lives 9 years. For grooming, the Curly Coated Retriever rates low, the Flat Coated Retriever low. The Curly Coated Retriever scores medium for child-friendliness, the Flat Coated Retriever high. For beginners, the Flat Coated Retriever is the better choice. The Curly Coated Retriever is lower-maintenance overall.
Which breed is a better fit?
For BeginnersFlat Coated Retriever has high trainability with very high energy
Flat Coated RetrieverFor FamiliesFlat Coated Retriever has high child-friendliness
Flat Coated RetrieverFor Active PeopleFlat Coated Retriever has very high energy level
Flat Coated Retriever
Low MaintenanceCurly Coated Retriever: grooming low, shedding low
Curly Coated RetrieverFor ApartmentsCurly Coated Retriever is large with high energy
Curly Coated RetrieverFrequently Asked Questions
The Curly Coated Retriever is a large dog (35 kg) with high energy. The Flat Coated Retriever is large (29 kg) with very high energy. The Curly Coated Retriever lives 11 years, the Flat Coated Retriever 9 years.