Flat-Coated Retrievers, or “Flatties,” are the descendants of the Newfoundland and the Labrador Retriever. True to its predecessors, this breed is an independent tracker and self-assured comedian in one. These are dedicated hunting dogs with great noses — some Flatties have even worked as drug sniffers.
Originally from England, this large-sized and high-energy breed can grow to between 60-70 pounds and lives an average of 8-10 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Sporting group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Sporting |
| Average lifespan | 8-10 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 103 |
| Family | Gundog, spaniel |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Water retrieving |
| Today's function | Water retrieving |
| Average size of male | Height: 23-24.5 Weight: 60-70 |
| Average size of female | Height: 23-24.5 Weight: 60-70 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other petrs | Very friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Very friendly |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A FLAT-COATED RETRIEVER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Headstrong, affectionate, and eager to please, the Flat-Coated Retriever is a confident and cheerful companion who will keep you on your toes. These dogs are very smart, energetic, playful, and affectionate. They are some of the happiest dogs around, but their independent bent makes having a sense of humor essential during training.
Good-natured Flatties are often wonderful family dogs. They're great with supervised kids and get along well with other supervised dogs and pets. They're usually happy to meet strangers.
WHAT IS FLAT-COATED RETRIEVER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a very active and athletic breed. Flat-Coated Retrievers are dogs on the go, so plan for lots of outdoor runs and romps. They also love to swim and will happily keep you company on runs, hikes, and even cross-country ski trips.
These dogs are somewhat vigilant though not very protective. They can be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A FLAT-COATED RETRIEVER?
Flat-Coated Retrievers are definitely trainable, but you have to allow for their sense of humor. Flatties have a mischievous side that lasts well into their adulthoods. They love dock-diving and agility games. A well-trained Flat-Coated Retriever is typically obedient and has reliable recall.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO FLAT-COATED RETRIEVERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
As the name suggests, this breed's medium-length, lustrous single coat lies flat against its body.
The harsh, straight, thick coats are designed to help protect them from cold temperature, icy water, and rough ground conditions. They are heavy seasonal shedders who will need occasional bathing and brushing. (More than occasional if your Flattie plays outside a lot — they can't stay away from a mud puddle.)
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO FLAT-COATED RETRIEVERS HAVE?
Flat-Coated Retrievers can be prone to cancer; some are susceptible to hypothyroidism, eye disease, and hip dysplasia.
