Flat Coated Retriever
The Flat-Coated Retriever is not suited to an apartment.
She needs at the least, a properly fenced in space to
exercise in. She expects to live indoors with her human
family. She generally does very well with other pets
and loves children. As a reminder, never leave a child
unsupervised with any puppy or dog. She makes a good
watch dog but may try to make friends with a prowler
once she announces him.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older)
of the Flat-Coated Retriever is 22 to 23 inches to the
withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 60 to 70
pounds. The female is smaller than the male.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems
associated with that specific breed and the Flat-Coated
Retriever is no exception. Be on the look out for Cancer
(common for this breed), Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic
based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis
pain and lameness), Patella Luxation (congenital condition
in which the kneecap dislocates), epilepsy, diabetes,
and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of
the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness).This
disease list is an informative guideline only. Other
diseases may also be significant threats, please contact
your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the
first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as
an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for
shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and
on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for
check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog
sweets.
Grooming
The Flat-Coated Retriever has a straight, flat coat
with some waviness possible. Her coat is of moderate
length with good luster. She is an average shedder and
should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her
maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help
you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your
emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean.
If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear
cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water
or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do
not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated
and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing
in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears
have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress
and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your
veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with
toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing
removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which
can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease.
Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth,
bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and
clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow
slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally
a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore
and competent instructions to accomplish this can be
found on the net.
Life Span
The Flat-Coated Retriever can live between 10 and 12
years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent
living conditions.
History
The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in Great Britain.
They were probably developed from a cross between the
Labrador, Water Dog, Irish Setter, Newfoundland, Collie
and some type of setter. They were first registered
by the American Kennel Association in 1915.
About the Author
For more information on the flat-coated
retriever
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