History of the Flat-Coated Retriever Breed
Flat Coated Retreiver - In early times, the retrieving dog was used to retrieve fish and other objects from the water for fishermen. Cod fisheries in Newfoundland particularly liked these types of dogs, and some of the most popular breeds in the 19th century were the Labrador (different from the present day Labrador retriever) and many different sizes of the Newfoundland breed. As firearms advanced, hunters needed to have a dog that could mark a fallen bird and bring it back to them. Because of the fishery dogs swimming and retrieving abilities, they were crossed with other English breeds, like the setter and the pointer, in order to hone the dog's bird sense. Some sources say that the flat-coated retriever was developed by the crossing of other breeds, such as the water dog, the St. John's Newfoundland, and the collie. Whatever the true origins, the result of these crossings was the wavy-coated retriever, which became very popular in both England and the United States. It became so popular that it was one of the earliest breeds to be shown in English dog shows. It was near the end of the 1800s that the wavy-coated retriever was crossed with a straight hair breed to create a more water-resistant coat. This cross resulted in the flat-coated retriever which quickly became very popular. But the flat- to wane. In fact, this breed faced extinction by the end of World War II. It took a concerted effort on the part of breeders to re-establish this breed, and it is now a modestly popular dog.
Size and Appearance of the Flat-Coated Retriever Breed
Considered to be one of the most streamlined retrievers, the flat-coated retriever is strong and elegant. It is slightly longer than it is tall and features straight front legs and long shoulders. The upper thighs of the hind legs are well muscled and quite powerful. The medium-sized feet are oval or round in shape with well-arched toes and thick pads. The head is nicely molded and large enough to retrieve a rabbit, duck, or pheasant with relative ease. The wide-set dark brown or hazel eyes are medium size and almond shaped, giving an alert and intelligent, yet kind, expression. The smallish ears lie close to the head and have thick feathering. The strong muzzle features a nose with large, open nostrils and strong jaws which meet in a scissors or level bite. The strong neck of the flat-coated retriever is slightly arched and long enough to easily seek the trail. The tail is usually quite straight and carried happily when the dog is active. The coat of this breed is lustrous and of moderate density and length. Ideally, the coat is straight and lies flat, but sometimes a slight waviness is present. The coat protects the dog from water, all kinds of weather, and ground cover - necessary for this working breed. It also offers considerable insulation. The ears, chest, thighs, back of front legs, and underside of tail are thickly feathered when the dog is in full coat. Flat-coated retrievers are usually either solid black or solid liver in color. The gait is efficient and balanced, resulting in long, clean strides.
Flat-Coated Retriever Temperament
A responsive and loving family member the flat-coated retriever is an intelligent and versatile hunting dog, as well as a companion. It is a lively dog that enjoys playing, retrieving, and swimming. It is excellent with children, and has a very stable temperament, making it a truly wonderful family pet. Cheerful and friendly, it often displays puppy-like exuberance for many years. This breed will usually alert the family to something amiss, but overall it is a good-natured, friendly dog that loves everyone. The flat-coated retriever is quite responsive to training, but it can get bored. Training sessions should be short and fun. This dog gets along well with other dogs and other family pets. It makes an ideal addition to an active, loving family.
Flat-Coated Retriever Recommended Maintenance
While the feathered coat of the flat-coated retriever is moderately long, only weekly brushings are required to keep it shiny and lustrous. Occasional trimming may be needed, especially on the ears and the feet. This dog should only be bathed when necessary, and the nails should be trimmed regularly. The flat-coated retriever is considered to be an average shedder. Daily exercise is a must for this energetic dog. Walking, running, and swimming are some of this dog's favorite forms of exercise. An average-size yard is a must, for this breed is not recommended for apartment dwelling. Living inside and playing outside is the ideal situation for this dog, as it tends to be relatively inactive when indoors, but loves to be with its family. If the flat-coated retriever becomes bored, it may engage in unwanted behavior such as digging or chewing. Training should be started at an early age.
Flat-Coated Retriever Health
Life span: 10 - 14 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: CHD
Occasionally seen: PRA, epilepsy, diabetes
Suggested tests: hip, knee, eye
