Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Flat Coated Retriever is an easy-going and alert dog whose lively spirit is demonstrated by their high-held head, sparkling eyes and wagging tail. They are a good natural retriever on land and in the water. Flat Coated Retrievers are naturally obedient, and thrive on training and pleasing their owner. They have a beautiful mane, making them look very noble. They greatly enjoy romping around with children, although they may get too rowdy for small children. They get along well with everyone, being friendly and happy. They are hard workers, versatile and energetic. Flat Coated Retrievers require only moderate exercise and care for their coat, making care for them easy. They are almost the same size and shape as the Golden Retriever, except with a solid black or liver coat that is moderately flat, but sometimes wavy. This led them to first be called the Wavy Coated Retriever. They are a large athletic dog, with a flat head and drop ears. Their legs, chest and tail are heavily feathered. The Flat Coated Retriever's happily high-held tail is a hallmark of their personality.

TEMPERAMENT

Flat Coated Retrievers are attentive, friendly, and intelligent. They are lively, exuberant and joyful in personality. They love to play with children, although they are too large to handle by small children. They get along well with other animals, and are good as watch dogs. Although fun loving, they are also hard workers. They excel in retrieving. They are hardy and sound, a very easygoing breed. Flat Coated Retrievers are less popular than the Golden or Labrador, making their temperament and health more trustworthy due to lack of excessive breeding.

GROOMING

Minimal grooming, a brushing of the Flat Coated Retriever's coat weekly will keep their coat beautiful. Bathe only when necessary, keep nails trimmed, clean ears, and trim ears and feet.

HEALTH

Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, glaucoma, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and cancer. Flat Coated Retrievers have a higher than normal tendency to have cancer.

EXERCISE

Regular daily exercise of walks, free run and swimming when possible. Without proper outlets for their energy, a bored Flat-Coated Retriever may resort to digging in gardens, chewing or other nuisance behavior.

TRAINING

Training should begin when they are young. The Flat-Coated Retriever gets along well with dogs and other pets. They are active, obedient and highly trainable, and can get bored easily without variety. Keep training sessions short and fun, without excessive repetition.

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