Aside from basic differences in size and coating, male and female Flat Coated Retrievers have almost everything alike, both in bodily conformation and temperament - almost.
According to breed standards, the male Flat Coated Retriever should stand at 23 to 25 inches or 58 to 62 centimeters at the withers. Its recommended weight should be between 55 to 70 pounds or 24 to 32 kilograms. Sometimes, the male Flat Coated Retriever appears larger than the female. Although this breed of dog is usually considered sleek and physically lean, a male Flat Coated Retriever has a longer and heavier coat on its neck which gives it a mane-like appearance. This mane also gives the dog some added depth and height on its neck, shoulders and withers. Some Flat Coated Retriever dogs exhibit considerable manes which make them look like they have a dip behind their withers.
When it comes to temperament, male Flat Coated Retriever dogs are more exuberant when it comes to showing their affection. They are known to jump on their human companions, lick faces enthusiastically and weave in and about human legs. Male Flat Coated Retriever dogs also tend to be more gregarious than their female counterparts, and will approach anyone or any animal without hesitation. They also like a more vigorous form of petting and body rubbing, which makes grooming feel like a wrestling match.
As a rule, male Flat Coated Retriever dogs are a bit more stubborn to teach than the females. This vivacious dog is known to engage in play even during training. Male Flat Coated Retrievers get bored much easier than the females. It is therefore essential that the training sessions are punctuated once in a while by a round of fetch or a game that the Flat Coated Retriever enjoys.
According to breed standards the female Flat Coated Retriever should stand at 22 to 23.5 inches or 56 to 60 centimeters at the withers. Its recommended weight, as with the male Flat Coated Retriever, should be between 55 to 70 pounds or 24 to 32 kilograms. Female Flat Coated Retriever dogs do not sport manes, and they do look sleeker and more slender than the males. Also, since their physiques do not "bulk" up as they age or become pregnant, female Flat Coated Retriever dogs tend to have longer bodies to better accommodate her unborn puppies.
It can be said that the female Flat Coated Retriever dogs are less affectionate than their male counterparts, but the term "less" is relative. The females also jump on, lick faces and snuggle up to their human companions, with "less" energy than the males - which is actually more doggy affection than the "normal" dogs. Female Flat Coated Retriever dogs also learn faster, and their memories are more retentive. They can, however, be more emotionally attached to their human companions and are more prone to suffer from separation anxiety.
Separation anxiety is a destructive and detrimental habit that afflicts the female Flat Coated Retrievers when they are left alone. They can spend a great amount of energy howling or chewing on something until their human companions return.
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