| AKC Group: | Sporting |
| A.K.A.: | N/A |
| Functions: | Hunting, Retrieving |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | England |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 15 |
| Colors: | Liver, Black |
| Height (Inch): | 22 - 24.5 |
| Weight (lb): | 60 - 70 |
| Size: | Large |
| Hair Length: | Medium |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a muscular dog that is pleasing to the eye. His coat is smooth and fine with feathering on his chest, tail, and legs. His head is long, as is the rest of his body and his muzzle is wide. His eyes are dark in color, usually hazel or brown. He is expressive and is able to convey his intelligence through his eyes. His ears are rather small and sit close to the sides of his head. The color of his nose is dependent on the color of his coat, either black or brown. The Flat-Coated Retriever has a wide chest and strong legs, a great hunting dog.
Temperament:
The Flat-Coated Retriever is the perfect temperament for families with children of all ages. He is outgoing and very friendly. He loves his family and is not timid around strangers. The Flat-Coated Retriever thrives on attention and is consistently a happy dog. He may be over-bearing in his desire to play and receive attention, but with the proper outlet, he can be calm, as well. Intelligent and gentle, a great combination of traits. He understands the difference between outside play and inside play. The Flat-Coated Retriever is social and tries to befriend other dogs and cats. He has a short attention span, but is enjoys training in short spurts.
Health:
The Flat-Coated Retriever is prone to cancer. In fact, he faces a significantly higher likelihood of coming down with malignant histiocytosis or histiocytic sarcoma than most other breeds. Researches are working to find a cure and the cause behind the deadly disease. In addition, he may experience hip dysplasia, a painful form of arthritis that can make in unable to walk or stand. The Flat-Coated Retriever is also susceptible to eye conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which in certain forms can cause total blindness. Occasionally, epilepsy is seen – however, the frequent bouts of seizures associated with the disease are less common than in many other breeds. Also, diabetes is found among the Flat-Coated Retriever – but in a low rate. Tests are available to show whether he is affected by any of the above mentioned conditions.
Maintenance:
The Flat-Coated Retriever does not require much maintenance. His coat is so silky, that it does not easily tangle. Consequently, a quick brushing once a week is enough to eliminate any loose fur and keep him looking his best. He does need to have his nails trimmed, as any breed does, but his coat rarely needs a trim. His ears should also be cleaned; however, they are no more likely than other breeds to develop yeast, bacteria, or mites. He prefers to go for a walk or a run each day and also enjoys swimming and hunting. It is best if the Flat-Coated Retriever has a yard to play in or a place where he can expend some of his energy.