Flat-Coated Retriever

The Flat-Coated Retriever is a gundog breed from the United Kingdom. It was developed as a retriever on both land and water. Flat-coats make exceptional family companions, bonding very closely with all members of the family. Compared with other sporting breeds, Flat-coats have a relatively low activity level indoors, but outdoors can play, run and retrieve tirelessly. Flat-coats given too little exercise, companionship and mental stimulation, however, can become overly active or destructive indoors, especially if left alone for extended periods of time. They are wonderful with older children but may be too exuberant for very small children. Early obedience training and socialization are highly recommended. The well-socialized and well-trained Flat-coat is an optimistic, enthusiastic dog with a constantly wagging tail who is a friend to all.
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Noun
1. an English breed having a shiny black or liver-colored coat; retrieves game from land or water
(hypernym) retriever

The flat-coated retriever is cheerful and eager to please.
Photo: John Daniels/Bruce Coleman, Inc.

Height: 22-24 inches.
Weight: 60-70 lbs.
Life Span: 10-14 yrs.
Breed Group: Sporting Dogs 
Overview
Flat-coated retrievers are exuberant, tail-wagging dogs whose biggest faults may be overfriendliness and jumping up on people to greet them. They love children and get along with other animals. It is important to start obedience training and socialization to non-family members early, as these dogs are sometimes suspicious of strangers. Flat-coats are enthusiastic students and quick learners.
Appearance
The moderately long outercoat is dense, shiny, fine, straight, and flat-lying; the undercoat is waterproof. When the dog is in full coat, the ears, chest, back of the legs, and underside of the tail are thickly feathered. Coat color is solid black or liver.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
The flat-coated retriever needs to be brushed a few times a week; feathering should be trimmed occasionally. Daily exercise, such as a run, swim, or game of fetch, is important.
Origins
Flat-coated retrievers originated in the 19th century and are thought to be the result of a cross between the Labrador retriever and the Newfoundland. They are superb bird flushers and land-and-water-retrievers and don't mind icy water or chilling winds as long as they are working.
Special Alerts
Breed-related health concerns: patellar luxation, osteosarcoma.