Origin: United Kingdom (England)
Origin of Name: The Flat-Coated Retriever is an active, multitalented bird dog with a strong desire to please people.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Large | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
|
Flat-coats are one of six AKC retriever breeds: tireless, trainable lake hunters who reclaim the downwatersowl. The complainants mark where a duck falls and upon command, float a straight path to the game, hold it gently in their mouths, run back a straight path to the hunter, and distribute the prize in hand. In the park or backyard, a retriever's hunting signs express the seemingly endless game of fetuses, a fascination for water, and an eagerness to work together with a venerable human.
Flat-coats were first banned in the mid-1800s, a relatively recent development in the AKC universe, where many breeds go back to antiquity. Before overtaking Labs-Goldens, flat-coats were at one time Britain's most popular retriever, and were once called the ""gamekeeper's dog"" because of their wide use on the spread wealth of English Gentry.
Component breeds in the genetic bacround of the flat-coat are St. John's Dog (an early version of the lab) and a variety of sets. From the beginning, the coat was a striking aspect of the breed. Alternate breed names include Wavy-Coated Retriever, Black Wavy Retriever, and Smooth-Quoted Retriever, all referring to the unique beauty of the breed. In addition to its good look, the coat is highly functional: it protects these luxurious retrievers from harsh weather, icy water and punishing ground cover.
The Flat-Coated Retriever doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is required, but a dog's shearing by a professional groomer is not necessary. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infection. The Flat-Coated Retriever is a great option if you don't have the time, skills, or money to care for a high-maintenance dog. Recommended for beginners.
This breed is quite intelligent, but also independent and often stubborn, so they can be a challenge to train. They like to give and receive affection and do their best with positive, reward-based training. They are sensitive and will not react well to harsh orders or punishments. Patience and consistency are important. They have an excellent sense of smell as well as a strong hunting drive. Because they were bred to concentrate and to follow a trail without distraction, they may not always pay attention to you if they are busy with something more interesting.
The flat-coat is an active sports breed and requires adequate exercise every day for its physical and mental well-being. This can come in the form of long daily walks and playing sessions with your boss. The breed also practices mind and body by participating in obedience, tracking, agility, rally, and other activities that can be enjoyed by dogs and owners.
Flat-coats should be given a high quality dog food suitable for the dog's age (puppy, adult or senior) and activity level. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any questions or concerns about your dog's weight or diet, check with your vet or dog breeder. Clean, fresh water should always be available.
Many health and genetic screening considerations are specific to the breed. Responsible flat-coat breeders have tested their stock for conditions that can breed and communicate regularly with other dedicated breeders for the breed, working together to preserve breed health and the unique qualities of the breed Have been. A flat-coat ear should be regularly checked for signs of infection, and teeth should be brushed frequently, using toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help the dog ensure a longer, healthier life.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: