Flat Coated Retriever
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General Description
The Flat-Coated Retriever is of the retriever class of dog and typically has a liver or black colored coat that is thick and of medium length. The coat on this dog tends to be fine and sleek while the legs, chest and tail are often well feathered. The Flat-Coated Retriever typically has a somewhat long and sleek head with a muzzle that is wide. The eyes on this dog tend to be either hazel or brown. Ears are somewhat small and typically lay flat along the head. The nose on the Flat-Coated Retriever tends to be black in most cases, but there are also some with brown noses as well.
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Black is the predominant color. Black dogs should have black noses and liver dogs have brown noses.
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Character
This particular breed of dog does extremely well with children and as a result makes a wonderful family dog. Its character and mood tend to be quite stable. This friendly and intelligent dog is also quite active and loves to interact with everyone in the family. If anything negative could be said of this breed it is that it tends to provide too much attention to guests. As the name of the breed suggests, this dog lives to retrieve and play with family members.
Often cheerful and gentle, this dog makes a devoted and faithful companion. Even once the dog has reached full maturity it maintains a temperament that is quite like a puppy.
Size
22-23 inches
Weight
60-70 pounds
General Health
The most common health problem with this breed of dog is cancer. Other health problems that are sometimes seen in Flat-Coated Retrievers are hip dyslpasia, diabetes, epilepsy, CHD and PRA. Some dogs are also known to have congenital deafness. The most prominent problem by far with this breed is cancer. Up to 75% of the deaths in this breed occur as a result of cancer. Regular check-ups are imperative as a result. Ideally a monthly check-up for this breed is best in order to check for ticks, given its tendency to be outdoors a lot. When given regular check-ups, this breed of dog has an average life span of 10 years.
History
This breed was originally developed in the 19th century through cross breeding between several breeds that had been established for some time. These breeds included the Labrador, Irish Setter and Water Dog. The St. John's Newfoundland was also used. It is suspected that the Collie may have been part of this breeding program as well. Prior to World War II, the Flat-Coated Retriever was quite popular. At that time, the popularity of the breed began to wane somewhat in favor of the Golden Retriever and Labrador.
Today the Flat-Coated Retriever is still revered as a family dog as well as a good hunter, particular in areas that are rife with bushes and trees. Also known for its swimming abilities, the Flat-Coated Retriever also performs well when retrieving in water as well.
Maintenance
When it comes to grooming, the Flat-Coated Retriever will need weekly combings. Regular combings will help to ensure that the coat on this breed remains in good condition and is shiny. On rare occasions, it may need a trimming. In terms of shedding, this dog sheds on an average basis. Shampooing will need to be performed on an as needed basis. For the most part, this is a self-cleaning breed and this dog will only need to be shampooed when it becomes exceptionally dirty.
Ideal Environment
This breed of dog does require plenty of exercise and opportunity to play, but once it is inside it will be quiet and will not usually be active indoors. That said, this is not a dog that will do well as an apartment dweller. It should have an average sized, fenced yard that will allow plenty of opportunity for play. This dog does not do well living outside; however. Play should be kept outside while the dog is allowed to live inside.
Daily walks are also essential for this dog, especially if a sufficient sized yard is not provided. This dog will also appreciate occasional opportunities for swimming and hunting.
Prospective owners should note that the Flat-Coated Retriever is very sociable and requires plenty of attention and affection. This is not a dog that does well when left alone for long periods of time. This breed of dog will also get along well with other family pets.
Due to the fact that the Flat-Coated Retriever is fairly obedient, it will handle training sessions well, but it does have a tendency to become bored rather easily so it is best to keep sessions of training short. The dog's natural intelligence allows it to pick up on training quite easily.
In many cases, the Flat-Coated Retriever has been used as a show dog, but it is also still well known as a companion and family dog.
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