Flat-Coated Retrievers: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Flat-Coated Retriever breed

The Flat-Coated Retriever!

The Flat-Coated Retriever is a strong and muscular dog that has a long solid head, dark and intelligent eyes, a black nose, small yet floppy ears, a wide muzzle and a broad chest. Its feet are equally strong and muscular. However, the Flat-Coated Retriever is most characterized with a thick, medium-length coat that is sleek and shiny.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
10-12 years

Energy Level:
Higher than average.

Living Conditions:
No apartments. Needs outdoor activity.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Daily 20 minute jog or 40 minute walk.

Breed Group:
Sporting

Size:
Medium-Large

Height:
22-23 inches

Weight:
60-70 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black and brown.

National breed club:
Flat-Coated Retriever Society of America

Flat-Coated Retriever Skills

The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in the 1800’s, a result of the mixture of the Irish Setter, Labrador, Water Dog and the St. John’s Newfoundland breeds. The dog became quite famous during the early years of World War but was soon overshadowed by the Golden Retriever and the Labrador. Aside from being a great choice for a family dog, the Flat-Coated Retriever is also an excellent swimmer and hunter, with its uncanny sense of smell.

Flat-Coated Retriever Personality

The Flat-Coated Retriever is a great family dog, with its consistently upbeat and happy disposition. This breed is very sweet and friendly, never failing to shower everyone around it with love and affection. The Flat-Coated Retriever is very transparent in terms of emotions, its excitement conveyed by the playful wagging of its tail. This dog loves to play and retrieve and loves being showered with attention. However, because of its very active nature, the Flat-Coated Retriever prefers short and direct training sessions, as it easily gets bored.

Exercise Needs

The Flat-Coated Retriever loves to exercise, being a very active breed. It enjoys hunting and swimming and can also be a good jogging companion, as it also loves to run around.

Living Conditions

The Flat-Coated Retriever is not ideal for people who have cramped living quarters. This breed is ideal for those who have an average-sized yard, as it is very active outdoors. Moreover, the Flat-Coated Retriever is advisable for big families, as this dog loves being showered with attention.

Grooming Requirements

The Flat-Coated Retriever requires minimal grooming, apart from the weekly brushing and the occasional trimming of the coat to maintain its sleek natural shape.

Health Issues

The Flat-Coated Retriever is most susceptible to cancer. It is also prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy and diabetes.

If you liked this dog…

...you may also enjoy having a Labrador Retriever. Just like the Flat-Coated variety, the Labrador is a very sweet and affectionate dog who loves to play and swim every chance it gets.