The Flat-Coated Retriever is not suitable for an apartment. She needs at least one properly fenced space to exercise. She hopes to live in the interior with her human family. She generally gets along very well with other pets and loves children. As a reminder, she will never leave a child unattended with a puppy or dog. She is a good watchdog, but she may try to befriend a prowler once she announces it.
Approximate adult size
The approximate adult size (two years and older) of the Flat-Coated Retriever is 22 to 23 inches at 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. Watch for cancer (common in this breed), canine hip dysplasia (genetic looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), patellar luxation (congenital condition in which the kneecap is dislocated), epilepsy , diabetes and progressive retinal atrophy (inherited retinal disease that can cause vision loss and blindness). This list of diseases is an informational guide only. Other diseases can also be significant threats, contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
You should visit the vet several times during the first year for shots, boosters, and checkups. Then, as an adult, he should visit the vet annually for shots and checkups. As he grows older, from the age of six, he should visit the vet twice a year for checkups and vaccinations. Remember; Avoid giving your dog candy.
Cleanliness
The Flat-Coated Retriever has a smooth, flat coat with some possible waviness. Its coat is of moderate length with good shine. It is an average molt and should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean, healthy coat, prevent matting, and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Their ears should be checked once a week and kept clean. If you have it professionally groomed, make sure an ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get into the dogs ears, and do not attempt 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 discharge, a bad odor, or she seems distressed and you suspect an infection or tumor, see your vet.
Their teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and a toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes plaque and tartar buildup that can cause tooth decay (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, bad breath, and other serious illnesses.
Your toenails may need to be checked for growth and cut regularly. Back toenails grow more slowly than front toenails. Generally, a guillotine-style trimmer is best for this task, and competent instructions for accomplishing this can be found online.
Life expectancy
The Flat-Coated Retriever can live 10-12 years with proper nutrition, medical care, and excellent living conditions.
History
The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in Great Britain. They probably developed from a cross between the Labrador Retriever, Spaniel, Irish Setter, Newfoundland, Collie, and some type of Setter. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1915.
some records
- United Kennel Club UKC
- NKC National Kennel Club
- Continental Kennel Club CKC
- APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
- American Kennel Club AKC
- FCI International Cinological Federation
- NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
- KCGB Kennel Club of Great Britain
- ANKC Australian National Kennel Club
- American Canine Registry ACR
litter size
6 to 9 Smooth-Coated Retriever puppies
Category
Hunting dog, Sporty
terms to describe
Intelligent, kind, cheerful, active, affectionate, cheerful, sensitive, optimistic
SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
- Train well.
- Good watchdog.
- Good with children.
- Very stable personality.
- He is a very good family dog.
- He loves to wag his tail.
- Good obedience.
SPECIAL BAD POINTS
- Poor guard dog.
- She needs a lot of human social interaction.
Other names known by
wavy haired retriever
Every dog is an individual, so not all of this information may be correct for your dog. This information is a good faith guide only.