Is the Flat Coated Retriever Dog Breed right for you?

The Flat Coated Retriever Dog Breed is among the most popular dog breeds. They were developed by crossing the Newfoundland and the Labrador Retriever. They also have some Setter bloodlines as well.

Temperament and Attitude

If you have ever met a flat coat you know they are very lively, friendly, intelligent and eager to please. They are good with children and are friendly towards strangers and other pets. Flat Coats also get along well with other dogs and rarely show any aggressiveness or hostility They are especially affectionate towards their owners.

The Flat Coats love to retrieve. They will play fetch with a stick or ball for hours. If water is involved they will be especially happy. This is because they were bred as a hunting dog (also called a sporting dog or gundog) to retrieve waterfowl shot during hunting. They are great swimmers.

This is a very loyal breed. They look forward to retrieving for their owner as a sign of their loyalty and friendship. So when their owner gets home they are likely to pick something up to carry to their owner to show that loyalty.

As puppies, this retriever dog breed is vey energetic and love to chew everything (and I mean everything) it can get its teeth on. As they age they are able to focus their energy in a more appropriate manner. In fact, they will sit patiently for hours, waiting for their chance to work.

Like most Hunting Dog Breeds, Flat Coated Retrievers are highly trainable. They are great dogs.

Size and Appearance

They are a large dog breed standing 22-25 inches and weighing 60-75 pounds. For this reason it is important that they be properly trained and supervised. They could injure a child accidentally due to their size and energetic nature.

Their coat's are dense, straight, medium length and lie flat (obviously). They come in solid black and liver and need a weekly brushing.

This is generally a healthy breed of dog that will live 10-13 years with good care. Good care includes veterinary care, proper nutrition and regular exercise. Their most common health concerns are hip dysplasia, gastric torsion and glaucoma.

Where to get a Flat Coated Retriever?

I would recommend a rescue first and a Reputable Dog Breeder next.

Please visit www.adopt-a-pet-you-will-love.com for more links to pet adoption information