What is the difference between a Flat-Coated Retriever and a Treeing Walker Coonhound?

The Flat-Coated Retriever is 60–70 lbs, 22–25 in sized while the Treeing Walker Coonhound is 50–70 lbs, 20–27 in sized. They differ in size (60–70 lbs, 22–25 in vs 50–70 lbs, 20–27 in), lifespan (8–10 years vs 12–13 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Flat-Coated Retriever or Treeing Walker Coonhound?

Flat-Coated Retriever is generally good with kids. Treeing Walker Coonhound is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Flat-Coated Retriever or Treeing Walker Coonhound?

The Flat-Coated Retriever has a lifespan of 8–10 years while the Treeing Walker Coonhound has a lifespan of 12–13 years.

Flat-Coated Retriever vs Treeing Walker Coonhound — Breed Comparison

About the Flat-Coated Retriever

The Flat-Coated Retriever — often called the "Peter Pan of the dog world" — was developed in 19th-century England as a dual-purpose retriever for both land and water work. Standing 22–24.5 inches tall and weighing 60–70 pounds, this elegant sporting dog wears a lustrous, flat-lying coat of solid black or liver that gives the breed its name. Once the most popular retriever in Britain before being eclipsed by Labradors and Goldens, the Flat-Coat remains a hidden gem among sporting breeds.

Temperament & Personality

Flat-Coated Retrievers are famously exuberant and retain their puppy-like enthusiasm well into old age — a trait that delights their owners but demands patience. They are outgoing, optimistic dogs that greet virtually everyone — family, friends, and strangers alike — with unbridled joy and a wagging tail. Their gentle, playful nature makes them excellent family dogs, though their boisterous energy may overwhelm very young children.

Pros

Perpetually cheerful and optimistic temperament — a natural mood booster for the household
Excellent with children and other dogs — rarely shows aggression
Versatile sporting dog — excels in field trials, agility, obedience, and therapy work
Beautiful, easy-care coat that requires only moderate grooming

Cons

Tragically high cancer rates — histiocytic sarcoma and other cancers claim many before age 8
Average lifespan of just 8–10 years — significantly shorter than similar-sized breeds
Slow to mature mentally and physically — can be challenging during the extended adolescent phase
Poor watchdog — greets intruders with the same enthusiasm as family members

Give a joyful Flat-Coated Retriever the loving home they deserve — check available dogs on Puplister today.

About the Treeing Walker Coonhound

The Treeing Walker Coonhound was developed in the United States from Walker Foxhounds in the mid-20th century, selectively bred for their exceptional ability to trail game and "tree" raccoons by chasing them up a tree and baying until the hunter arrives. These elegant, athletic hounds stand 20 to 27 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds, with a lean, muscular build and the classic tricolor pattern — white, black, and tan — reminiscent of their foxhound ancestry. Their short, smooth coat is dense and protective, well-suited for long hours working through brush and rough terrain.

Temperament & Personality

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are confident, intelligent, and affable — possessing a friendly, sociable nature that makes them enjoyable companions both in the field and at home. They are gentle with children, typically welcoming to strangers, and usually get along well with other dogs, especially those they've been raised with. Their hunting instincts run deep, however, and they can switch from couch potato to tireless tracker the moment an interesting scent crosses their path.

Pros

Friendly, easygoing temperament — excellent with families and other dogs
Low-maintenance coat needing only weekly brushing
Superb endurance for hiking, running, and outdoor adventures
Generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 13 years

Cons

Extremely vocal — loud baying and howling are a defining breed trait
Powerful scent drive makes off-leash reliability very challenging
Requires substantial daily exercise — bored Walkers can be destructive
Prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia

Treeing Walker Coonhounds bring athletic grace and a sweet disposition to any home — explore available listings on Puplister.

Flat-Coated Retriever vs Treeing Walker Coonhound