Description

The Flat-Coated Retriever is an easy-going and alert dog who’s lively spirit is demonstrated by his head being held high, his eyes sparkling and his tail wagging. Flat-Coated Retriever are a good natural retriever on land and in the water, a natural in obedience, they thrive on training and pleasing their owners. Flat-Coated Retriever have a beautiful mane making them look very noble.

Size of Male: Height: 23-24.5 inches Weight: 60-70 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 22-23.5 inches Weight: 60-70 pounds

Temperament

The Flat-Coated Retriever are superb with children and a great family dog. Flat-Coated Retriever has a very stable temperament. Smart, active and friendly, Flat-Coated Retriever loves everyone. Some may be too friendly – overwhelming guests with love and attention. They are a sweet, high-spirited dog that loves to play and retrieve. A gentle and playful tail-wagger. They are cheerful, devoted companions with a puppy-like exuberance well into their later years. It is on the go outdoors, but quiet indoors. This is a very sociable breed that needs lots of affection and attention from its family. The Flat-Coated Retriever gets along well with dogs and other pets. This breed is obedient and highly trainable, but easily bored. Keep training sessions short and fun, without excessive repetition.

Living Conditions

The Flat-Coated Retriever is not recommended for apartment life. Flat-Coated Retriever are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Flat-Coated Retriever needs to be with his family to be happy. It does best when it is allowed to live inside and play outside. A good mix of indoors and outdoors.

Upkeep

Flat-Coated Retriever need daily exercise and fun, and especially enjoy the chance to hunt or swim. Flat-Coated Retriever are family-oriented dogs that do best when allowed to live inside and play outside. Flat-Coated Retriever’s coat need only weekly brushing and little, if any, minor trimming occasionally.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia, Patellar luxation, Epilepsy

Minor concerns: Heart disease, hypothyroidism

Life expectancy: 10 – 14 years