Friendly and Hard-working: The Flat-coated Retriever

A friendly dog whose tail doesn’t seem to stop wagging, the Flat-coated Retriever is hard-working, affectionate and eager-to-please dog that enjoys being with its people, whether in the home or in the field.

The Flat-coated Retriever originated as a flushing and retrieving breed for waterfowl and upland game birds; fishermen also used the breed. Its ancestry includes Newfoundlands, setters, sheepdogs and water spaniels. Originally lumped together with Labradors, the breed eventually became known as the Wavy-coated Retriever and later the Flat-coated Retriever, thereby distinguishing it from the Labrador.

This friendly dog makes an excellent family pet due to its outgoing, loving personality. The dog’s strength and determination help it excel as a hunter. It does well in the show ring as well as in obedience, agility and hunt trials. Because of its heritage, the Flat-coated Retriever needs regular, vigorous exercise such as these events. It is not the best dog for apartment life for it needs activity and can get bored easily.

The Flat-coated Retriever is part of the American Kennel Club’s Sporting Group; the AKC recognized the breed in 1915. A rather large dog, the Flat-coated Retriever stands 22 to 24 ½ inches (56 to 62 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighs 60 to 70 pounds (27 to 32 kg). Its coat is either a solid black or a solid liver color, and weather-proof protecting it from cold water and cold weather. The thick, flat-lying fur is easy to maintain, only needing the occasional brush, bath and trim.

Considered a happy, intelligent dog, this breed loves to play, especially to retrieve. It is easy to train and very friendly. Because of its sociability, the Flat-coated Retriever does not make a good watchdog. It is great with children, and therefore, makes a wonderful family pet. The Flat-coated Retriever lives an average of 10 years.

Known for its determined, intelligent and affectionate personality, the Flat-coated Retriever possesses a desire to please as well as a confident, outgoing demeanor. These characteristics are further displayed in its ever-wagging tail! Though not as popular of a breed as Black Labs and Golden Retrievers, this is a dog that appreciates living with and interacting with its human companions. Its superior sense of smell and great ability to swim make it a terrific hunting dog as well. The versatility and vivaciousness of the Flat-coated Retriever work in harmony to make it a wonderful companion dog for an active individual or family.