Flat-coated Retrievers are quite large in size and have very nice athletic bodies. The chest is well-defined, with a long tail and elongated hair. The limbs are graceful, and hold the body well and firmly. The head is elongated, with a flat, not too wide skull. The face is harmonious, and square. The breed has almond-shaped, dark brown eyes with an intelligent, friendly expression. Small soft ears on the cartilage should hang. The tail is straight, set high, and held straight, it should not fall over the back. The coat is long and smooth, as the name suggests. The color of the Flat-coated Retriever is usually black or brown, colours that are too light are not allowed.
Animalia.Pets
Animalia.Pets
Appearance
Gallery
Origin
Temperament
Training
Interesting facts
English
Appearance
Gallery
Origin
Temperament
Training
Interesting facts
English
Flat-coated Retriever
Other names:
Flatcoat, Flattie, Flatte (Sweden), flatt (Sweden)
Representatives of this breed are known for their very family-friendly and kind nature, Flat-coated Retrievers are adored by many families, especially children. Originally from Great Britain, they conquer the whole world and, despite their large size, can live in an apartment, feeling quite comfortable.
FCI group:
FCI section:
Male
Female
Withers height
59-62
23.2-24.4
cminch
cm inch 
Withers height
56-59
22-23.2
cminch
cm inch 
weight
27-36
59.4-79.2
kglbs
kg lbs 
weight
25-32
55-70.4
kglbs
kg lbs 
life span
8-10 years
Appearance
Eye colour
Fur colour
Ears
Eyes shape
Fur length
Fur type
Head shape
Tail
Gallery
View 13 more photos
Gallery
View 13 more photos
Origin
Like other retrievers, representatives of this breed originated on the island of Newfoundland and were later brought to Great Britain, where Flat-coated Retrievers finally took shape. The ancestors of these dogs are the Irish Water Spaniel, the Irish Setter, the Collie, and the St. Johnson (Little Newfoundland). In 1873 Mr. Shirlf founded a club of lovers of this breed. By the way, Flat-coated Retrievers were bred specifically for hunting on water, such as ducks or geese, which they can handle perfectly even now. Flat-coated Retrievers remained hunting until the 20th century, but soon they were replaced by Labrador, who is also their relative.
Temperament
Representatives of this breed are very positive, with optimistic character traits. Flat-coated Retrievers have hunting traits, but in this direction they are used very rarely, more often they serve as a companion for many families and can adapt to completely different living conditions. Flat-coated Retrievers are often kept by elderly people, or parents give them to their children. These dogs will never show aggression towards people, even strangers, and will not be the first to attack dogs or other animals. Flat-coated Retrievers treat children very well and will never offend them, on the contrary, they will behave like babysitters. Representatives of this breed have a high level of energy, so be prepared for daily active walks.
Activity Level:
Active
Training
Flat-coated Retrievers have very good intelligence and understand almost everything that the owner tells them. In any case, do not get bored and do not insist on training if you see that your pet has frozen - it is better to rest and continue after some time. Never use aggressive or violent methods, because this will only create hostile relations between you, which do not belong between friends. Representatives are able to participate in dog sports competitions, so everything is in your hands, you just need to start.
Activity Level:
Active
Interesting facts
- Dogs of this breed love water and everything related to it, so be prepared for frequent visits to water bodies.
- Hunters still love Flat-coated Retrievers for their gentle mouth that can bring in prey without damage.
- Flat-coated Retrievers have water-resistant fur that helps them float.
- After the Second World War, this breed began to die out sharply, but thanks to the breeders, Flat-coated Retrievers were quickly restored.
Keeping conditions
Diet preferences
Grooming
Common health issues
Flat-coated Retrievers need a balanced diet, so if you decide to feed your pet natural products, it is best to use meat, dairy products, cereals, vegetables, and fruits. Boneless sea fish will be very useful. Add a vitamin-mineral complex to the diet to improve the condition of the coat. And dry fodder must be carefully selected in terms of composition, not lower than premium class. You should not mix these two types of food, because then a heavy load on the liver will be formed. Make sure that there is always water in the dog's bowl.
The thick coat of Flat-coated Retrievers does not require complex or special care, it will be enough to comb them with a brush with long metal teeth, repeat this procedure more often during spring and autumn shedding. Flat-coated Retrievers should also be bathed 1-2 times a week, depending on the degree of pollution. Also, take care of the hygiene of the dog's ears and eyes, the ears must be cleaned 3 times a week with a special lotion, and the eyes every morning after sleep with a wet cotton pad. Do not forget to trim the nails of Flat-coated Retrievers every 10 days.
Grooming intencity:
Representatives of this breed, like most others, are prone to some diseases, including:
Hip dysplasia.
Deafness.
Progressive retinal atrophy.
Glaucoma.
Epilepsy.
Cancerous diseases.
In case you notice something strange behind your dog, it is better to contact the veterinarian immediately without hesitation. Always take care of your dog's health.
References
- Flat-coated Retriever Wikipedia article https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-coated_Retriever
- Flat-coated Retriever Wikipedia article https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-coated_Retriever
See in Lists