Flat-Coated Retriever

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment8–10 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Cancer · Hip dysplasia · Bloat (GDV)

The Flat-Coated Retriever is the 'Peter Pan of retrievers' — a glossy black or liver optimist that stays exuberantly puppy-like for years and greets everything in life with wagging, champagne-bubble enthusiasm. Friendly, outgoing and eager to please, it is a wonderful, sociable family and sporting dog, but that lasting youthfulness means it needs a lot: substantial daily exercise, mental engagement and patient, positive training, and plenty of company, since it bonds closely and dislikes being left alone. An under-exercised Flat-Coat stays boisterous and mischievous well past puppyhood. The medium, feathered coat needs brushing a couple of times a week, with attention to the ears. Health is the difficult reality of this breed: the Flat-Coated Retriever has a notably high cancer rate, which sadly shortens its average lifespan to only around eight to ten years, so it is essential to buy from a breeder who breeds for health and longevity. Also screen for hip and elbow dysplasia and eye disease, and guard against bloat (measured meals, rest after eating). Give a Flat-Coat exercise, training, company and preventive care, and it will be a joyful, devoted companion for its cheerful years.

• How much exercise does a Flat-Coated Retriever need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Flat-Coated Retriever need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Flat-Coated Retriever suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Flat-Coated Retriever a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Flat-Coated Retriever live?

  8–10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Flat-Coated Retriever?

  Keep an eye out for Cancer, Hip dysplasia, Bloat (GDV). These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

Be the first to join this community!