NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - Dads may receive plenty of cards, electronics, books and CDs this Father's Day, but they won't receive as much as mom did on her special day, according to a new survey tracking consumer behavior related to the holiday.

Nearly three-quarters of the country plans to celebrate Father's Day this year, and on average they will spend $85.66, down slightly from last year's $86.19, according to the 2005 Father's Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey.

By comparison, average spending for Mother's Day rose to $104.63 this year, or about $20 more than that for fathers.

Mom didn't always reign supreme. Just two years ago the race was close with consumers spending on average $99.65 for Father's Day versus $97.37 for Mother's Day. But since then fathers have been steadily losing ground.

"Dad tends to be more low maintenance than Mom," said Tracy Mullin, president and CEO of the National Retail Federation, an industry trade association.

"While moms love to receive luxury items, such as jewelry or a trip to the spa, dads are happy with an afternoon barbecue or watching the ballgame without distraction."

Consumers are also likely to buy more practical gifts for fathers, which translates into lower average spending, the survey said.

Average spending on dads may be slightly lower this year, but total Father's Day spending is expected to rise to $8.23 billion from $8.04 billion last year.

It also looks like moms are spreading the bounty they receive. Many women will purchase gifts for their fathers and husbands for the June 19 holiday and are likely to spend $91.46 on Father's Day compared to the $79.42 the average male plans to spend, the survey found.

If you buy gifts for dad, will you be satisfied with your purchase? Click here to read more.