Learn More About Flat Coated Retriever

Summary

The Flat Coated Retriever, often affectionately referred to as "Flat", is an elegant and shiny appearance. His physique is athletic, well proportioned and shows a natural grace. Its coat is dense, medium length and shiny, often giving it the appearance of a "four-legged gentleman". A striking feature is its long head, shaped almost like a wedge, with a strong snout and expressive eyes. The Flat Coated Retriever belongs to FCI Group 8, the retrieving dogs, searching dogs and water dogs. Within this group it can be found in the retriever section. This breed does not differentiate between performance and show lines, meaning that all Flat Coated Retrievers are suitable for both show and work tasks.

Character

Flat Coated Retrievers are known for keeping a puppy's heart well into old age. They are incredibly happy, friendly and outgoing dogs. If you're looking for a dog that enjoys life to the fullest, the Flat could be just the one for you. As retrievers, Flats are of course also known to love retrieving. This makes them great companions for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They have a natural affinity for water and are excellent swimmers, which is why they are often used in water sports. Their friendly and social nature also makes them wonderful family dogs. They are very people-oriented and build close bonds with their family members. Flats are known for getting along well with children and other pets. However, they are not guard dogs. Their open and friendly nature means they tend to like everyone they meet, even strangers. But that doesn't mean they can't be good alarm dogs because they will often bark when someone is at the door. When it comes to being alone, it is important to get a Flat Coated Retriever used to it from an early age. They are socially oriented and love being in company. A Flat that is regularly left alone for long periods of time can develop behavioral problems. An important characteristic of the breed is its energy level. They are very energetic and need enough exercise every day. Their urge to move and their intelligence also mean that they need to be mentally challenged. Because they were originally bred as hunting dogs, Flat Coated Retrievers have a certain hunting instinct. It is important to teach them to control these urges, especially when they are in areas with wildlife.

What to Expect

Flat Coated Retrivers are fast, active dogs with a high hunting motivation. They are suitable for sporty dog ​​owners who can exercise this dog according to its type.

Care

The Flat Coated Retriever is an active dog and is therefore more suitable for living in a house with a garden than in a city apartment. If he is still kept in the city, regular walks and trips are necessary run essential. They are generally very social and get along well with children and other animals. However, a close eye should always be kept on the interaction between dogs and small children.

Training & Education

Flats are intelligent dogs that crave mental and physical stimulation. Their natural retrieving behavior can be encouraged by including retrieving games and sports such as flyball. They are also excellent swimmers and love water sports. It is important to ensure a balanced activity so as not to overwhelm the dog. Because Flats have high energy levels, they can become "ball junkies" if they become too focused on ball games. It's important to offer a varied exercise program that includes both physical and mental stimulation. It is also important for this breed that the dog learns frustration tolerance and impulse control. Training should start early and be based on positive reinforcement.

Nutrition & Grooming

Flat Coated Retrievers benefit from a balanced diet that contains high-quality protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. It is advisable to pay attention to a species-appropriate diet that is specifically tailored to the needs of active dogs. Being overweight should be avoided as it can put additional strain on the joints. In terms of grooming, the Flat Coated Retriever has a medium-length, dense coat with an undercoat. The undercoat helps them stay warm in the colder months and is well suited to the climate in Germany. However, they shed all year round and especially during the shedding period in spring and autumn. Regular brushing, about twice a week, is important to prevent mats and keep the skin and coat healthy.