The Flat-Coated Retriever is a gundog breed from Britain who specializes in dry-land retrieving.
Alternate Names
Flatcoat
Appearance:
Body: Short square back, broad deep chest, strong, well-muscled loin, and well-ribbed with solid top line.
Coat: Somewhat dense, full, and weather / water resistant.
Color: Solid black or liver.
Ears: Small and flat, lying close to the head, and well-feathered.
Eyes: Medium size, almond-shaped, wide-set and dark or hazel colored.
Feet: Oval or round with well-arched toes and thick pads.
Head: Long, strong, and moderately broad, with a relatively flat skull, gradual stop, long powerful muzzle. Nostrils are large and nose is either black or brown depending on the color of his coat.
Legs: Forelegs are straight and powerful with long shoulders. Hind legs are strong and sloping.
Neck: Strong, medium length, and somewhat arched.
Size:
Weight: 60 – 80 pounds (25 – 35kg)
Height: 22 – 24.5 inches (56 – 62cm)
Tail: Short, straight, and flat, carried below the back line.
Behavior
Recommended for novice dog handlers
Shouldn’t be left alone for extended periods of time
Not recommended with toddlers or smaller pets without supervision
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a tail-wagging, friendly, handsome, easy-going and lively spirited dog. He is always alert to what is going on around him and will entertain you continuously with his comical personality. Though alert, he is generally a non-aggressive dog and, therefore not usually employed as a guard dog.
The AKC Standard says, “The Flat-Coated demonstrates stability and a desire to please with a confident, happy, and outgoing attitude characterized by a wagging tail.” He is elegant in stature and graceful in movement.
He is a good-natured breed who demands an abundance of attention. He is also an athletic dog in need of lots of activity such as hiking, biking, swimming and playing fetch. His activities must be varied, not dwelling on too much routine, or he’ll quickly become bored.
The Flat-Coated can be stubborn but is a quick learner and responds well to positive obedience training.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Sporting Group
Originally bred as a gun dog. While his specialty is dry-land retrieving, he is also quite adept at retrieving from water
Care and Grooming
Exercise: An abundance of play and exercise without too much repetition. Unless you have the ability and desire to spend lots of time paying attention to and exercising your dog, this is not the dog for you.
Grooming: Brush or comb two to three times weekly with an occasional trim. Keep his ear canals clean and dry.
Health
Life Expectancy: 8 – 10 Years
Possible Problems:
Cancer of the large bones
Glaucoma – an increased pressure within the eyeball
Hip Dysplasia
Low Thyroid
Luxating Patellas
Recommended Certificates:
CERF (eyes)
OFA (hips)
Country of Origin
United Kingdom – 1800s