The Flat-Coated Retriever is not suited to an apartment. She needs at the least, a properly fenced in space to exercise in. She expects to live indoors with her human family. She generally does very well with other pets and loves children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with any puppy or dog. She makes a good watch dog but may try to make friends with a prowler once she announces him.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Flat-Coated Retriever is 22 to 23 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 60 to 70 pounds. The female is smaller than the male.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Flat-Coated Retriever is no exception. Be on the look out for Cancer (common for this breed), Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Patella Luxation (congenital condition in which the kneecap dislocates), epilepsy, diabetes, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness).This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Flat-Coated Retriever has a straight, flat coat with some waviness possible. Her coat is of moderate length with good luster. She is an average shedder and should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
Life Span
The Flat-Coated Retriever can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
History
The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in Great Britain. They were probably developed from a cross between the Labrador, Water Dog, Irish Setter, Newfoundland, Collie and some type of setter. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1915.
Originally developed from the St. John's Dog, Water Spaniels, Setters and Labrador Retrievers, this breed has become a favorite for many sportsmen (or women) that is looking for a breed to work with in the field.
They are easy to train and have a happy approach to the world around them. They are often referred to as the ?Peter Pan? of the dog world and they will happily approach their work with the exuberance of a puppy, even into their senior years.
The Good And Bad of owning a Flat Coated Retriever.
The Flat Coated Retriever is an active breed that is full of life, spirit and has a good natured temperament. They are the quintessential puppy that enjoys playing around at home as much as they enjoy working in the field. While this breed is energetic and has been ranked as an ideal field dog, it is not for everyone. They have a variety of pros and cons and it is important to weigh each one before you choose whether a Flat Coated Retriever is the right breed for you.
The Good
There are many good points about the Flat Coated Retriever breed and at one time they were the preferred breed for field work and conformation. If you are looking for an energetic gundog that enjoys his work and remains the eternal puppy, then this is definitely the breed for you.
? They are intelligent and easy to train if you use positive reinforcement.
? They get along with other pets and do well in multi-dog homes.
? They are great with kids, although they are better suited for older children since they can knock down younger children with their antics.
? They generally love people and are very friendly.
? They work well as retrieving dogs and can work on both sparse and thick foliage and in water.
? They are a versatile breed and do well as both hunting dogs and pets
? They are sweet tempered and can be very funny.
The Bad
As with all dog breeds, there are a number of cons that should be taken into consideration before you purchase a Flat Coated Retriever. The breed has a number of serious health issues, listed in the section below, and they have an active and bouncy personality that does not work for everyone.
? They are average to heavy shedders
? Although they are known for their eager to please personality, some Flat Coated Retrievers can be very stubborn.
? They have high energy levels, which make them unsuitable for apartment living.
? They require large amounts of exercise on a daily basis, usually requiring about 90 minutes each day.
? Flat Coated Retrievers are very sensitive and while this can be a wonderful quality in some ways, it can also be difficult when it comes to training and other areas. They are more likely to shut down and refuse to train if any type of training is used except positive reinforcement.
? They are the ?Peter Pan? of the dog world and you can expect to have a happy, bouncy and exuberant puppy until your dog reaches old age.
? If they are left alone for long periods of time they can suffer from separation anxiety. This can lead to barking problems and destructive behavior.
? They are mouthy. This equates to a dog that may nip at hands, carrying objects away and chewing items around the house.
?They are prone to Coprophagy, which is eating their own feces.
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