Flat Coated Retriever
Description:
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a good but energetic family dog as well as a great example of the hunting and retrieving dog breeds. This Retriever is a strong and muscular hunting and retrieving dog with a good hunting nose. The Flat-Coat has a medium-length coat which can either be flat or wavy. This Retriever’s coat can be black or liver. Male dogs stand about 22 to 24 inches and female dogs about 22 to 22 inches tall at shoulder height. Flat-Coated Retrievers can weigh from 60 to 80 pounds.
Flat Coated Retrievers are members of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Sporting Dog Group.
History:
The Flat-Coat was developed in England during the 19th century as both a land hunter and a water retriever. This breed was very popular until the Golden and Labrador Retrievers took over in popularity. The Flat-Coat is used as hunting, show and field sports dog as well as a family pet. This Retriever breed was ranked 100th out of 154 dog breeds in 2004 AKC registrations.
Temperament:
The Flat-Coat is a happy and exuberant dog that loves people. This Retriever is easy to train to do everything from hunting tests to agility, tracking and obedience competitions. The breed adores its master and is intelligent and quick to understand instructions. However Flat-Coats can be somewhat stubborn and you need to be firm and consistent in your training and handling. Early socialization and obedience training while a puppy are necessary to control the Flat-Coats natural exuberance. You must supervise toddlers carefully around this breed as the Flat-Coat can knock them over while playing. The Flat-Coat is a great family dog that is excellent with children and the rest of the family. It loves to please. Flat-Coats demand a lot of attention, play time and exercise. They make poor watchdogs as they love all strangers. This breed is suitable for novice or first-time dog owners.
Exercise:
Flat-Coats need lots of daily exercise and games. The breed can adapt to city living with a large backyard as long as you spend the time to take them swimming, jogging, biking or playing games on a daily basis.
Grooming:
Flat-Coats only need brushing once or twice a week and combing to remove tangles. Check the ear passages of this floppy-eared breed to keep them clean and dry. Trim excess hair from between the pads on his feet and also on his behind.
Health Issues:
Flat-Coats should live from 8 to 10 years. Common health problems include hip dysplasia and cancer. Cancer seems to be the major cause of death in this breed.
Article type: xdogbreed
