Flat-Coated Retriever

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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Flat-Coated Retriever is a medium-to-large sized, intelligent gundog known for its friendly and outgoing temperament. Originating in the United Kingdom, this breed requires a significant amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation, and is generally good with children and other pets.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in the mid-19th century in the United Kingdom as a gundog
  • Used for retrieving game on land and water
  • Known for their excellent scenting ability and soft mouths

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female22-23.5 inches (56-60 cm)55-70 pounds (25-32 kg)
Male23-24.5 inches (58-62 cm)60-80 pounds (27-36 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Black
  • Liver (less common)
Type
  • Dense
  • Straight
  • Lying flat
Length
  • Medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Regular brushing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Long and well-molded
  • Carriage is such that muzzle is carried on a plane with the top of the skull
Skull
  • Flat
  • Moderately wide
Ears
  • Relatively small
  • Set on, close to the side of the head
  • Well feathered
Eyes
  • Medium-sized
  • Dark brown or hazel
  • Intelligent and gentle expression
Nose
  • Good size
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Long
  • Strong
  • Tapering but not pointed
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
  • Complete
Neck
  • Moderately long
  • Strong and free from throatiness
Forequarters
  • Well laid shoulders
  • Muscular
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Strong
Hindquarters
  • Well-developed
  • Muscular
Hind Legs
  • Well-angulated
  • Straight
  • Strong
Feet
  • Round
  • Compact
  • Well-arched toes
Tail
  • Straight
  • Carried level with the back
  • Medium length
Gait
  • Smooth
  • Powerful
  • Covers ground well

Temperament

  • Friendly
  • Outgoing
  • Confident
  • Intelligent
  • Eager to please
  • Playful
  • Affectionate
  • Sensitive

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very Affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good
Good with Dogs
  • Good
Good with Cats
  • Good
Openness to Strangers
  • Friendly
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Low
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable

Working Roles

  • Gun dog
  • Retrieving
  • Companion
  • Therapy dog
  • Search and rescue

Exercise Needs

  • High
  • Requires daily exercise and mental stimulation

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • Potential for hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Some risk of cancer
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Glaucoma
  • Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (Bloat)

Additional Notes

  • Slow to mature
  • Requires socialization and training from a young age
  • Can be sensitive to harsh treatment

References