Flat-Coated Retriever

The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in England during the mid-19th century when duck hunting became increasingly popular and sportsmen sought a skilled retriever. The breed’s ancestry is believed to include crosses between various existing breeds, such as the St. John’s Newfoundland (an ancestor of many retrievers), Irish Setters (for scenting ability and color), Water Spaniels (for retrieving from water), and possibly Collie-type dogs (for trainability). Gamekeeper S.E. Shirley, founder of The Kennel Club in England, is credited as a key figure in establishing and popularizing the breed.

Initially known as the “Wavy-Coated Retriever,” breeders later favored a flatter, sleeker coat, leading to the “Flat-Coated” name. These dogs were prized for their excellent noses, retrieving instincts both on land and in water, their trainability, and their cheerful, willing disposition. They were popular gundogs in England for many years. While their numbers declined after the World Wars with the rise in popularity of Labradors and Golden Retrievers, dedicated enthusiasts have kept the breed going. The Flat-Coated Retriever was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1915.

The Flat-Coated Retriever is renowned for its perpetually cheerful, optimistic, and exuberant temperament, often described as the “Peter Pan” of the dog world due to its tendency to retain a puppy-like enthusiasm throughout its life. They are incredibly friendly and outgoing dogs, greeting both family and strangers with a wagging tail and boundless joy. Flat-Coats are deeply affectionate and form strong bonds with their families, thriving on human companionship and wanting to be involved in all activities.

They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them generally trainable, though their exuberance can sometimes require patient and consistent handling. Flat-Coats are typically excellent with children, being playful and tolerant, and usually get along well with other dogs and pets if properly socialized from a young age. They are not typically aggressive but are alert and will announce visitors. Their unwavering good nature and love for life make them delightful, if sometimes boisterous, companions.

The Flat-Coated Retriever has a moderately long, dense, flat-lying, and glossy double coat with distinctive feathering on the ears, chest, abdomen, thighs, and tail. The coat provides good protection from weather and cold water. Accepted colors are solid black or solid liver.

Grooming needs are moderate. Regular weekly brushing with a slicker brush or pin brush, along with a comb for the feathered areas, is necessary to prevent tangles and mats, remove loose dead hair, and keep the coat looking sleek and healthy. Flat-Coats are average shedders, with heavier shedding seasonally. Occasional trimming, particularly around the feet, ears, and to neaten the feathering, can help maintain a tidy appearance. Baths should be given as needed. Their ears should be checked regularly for cleanliness, especially if they swim frequently, to prevent infections. Routine nail trims and dental care are also important grooming tasks.

Flat-Coated Retrievers are high-energy, athletic dogs that require a significant amount of vigorous daily exercise to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated. They were bred for active work in the field and possess considerable stamina and enthusiasm for activity. This is not a breed suited for a sedentary lifestyle.

Aim for at least one to two hours of robust exercise per day. Excellent exercise options for a Flat-Coat include:

• Long, brisk walks, jogging, or running alongside a bicycle (once fully mature and conditioned).
• Off-leash play in a large, securely fenced area where they can run freely and play fetch (a favorite activity).
• Swimming, which most Flat-Coats absolutely love and excel at.
• Canine sports such as hunt tests, retrieving trials, agility, obedience, rally, or dock diving.
• Hiking and exploring new trails with their family.

Without a sufficient outlet for their boundless energy and intelligence, Flat-Coated Retrievers can become bored, frustrated, and may develop destructive behaviors or become overly boisterous. They thrive in active homes where they can be a regular participant in their family’s outdoor adventures and activities.

While generally a hardy breed, Flat-Coated Retrievers are unfortunately prone to certain serious health conditions, most notably a higher incidence of specific cancers compared to many other breeds. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock. Potential health concerns include:

• Cancers: Malignant histiocytosis, hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, and lymphoma are significant concerns in the breed and can occur at a younger age than in many other breeds. This contributes to their somewhat shorter average lifespan.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: A malformation of these joints, common in many sporting and large breeds.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
• Eye Conditions: Including glaucoma, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), and cataracts. Eye certification is crucial for breeding stock.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV):** A risk for deep-chested breeds.
• Epilepsy:** Seizure disorders can occur.