Flat-Coated Retriever

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silouette
great dane silouette
Height: 1ft 9in - 2ft 0in
Weight: 55-70lbs
Lifespan: 8 - 11 Years

Behavior

  • Affection5/5
  • Kid-Friendly5/5
  • Stranger-Friendly5/5
  • Dog-Friendly4/5
  • Barking Amount3/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty2/5
  • Shedding Amount4/5
  • Easy to Train5/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need5/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance4/5
  • Heat Tolerance4/5
  • Apartment-Friendly3/5

Flat-Coated Retriever Information

Flat-Coated RetrieverFlat-Coated Retrievers are known best for their lustrous coats. Their beautiful, glossy fur is long and flat with a feathered appearance on the legs and tail. The color can be black or liver. Not only does the coat look good, it also serves an important purpose by protecting these dogs from harsh terrain, inclement weather and cold water.

In addition to its glorious mane, the Flat Coat is also differentiated from other retrievers by having a leaner, slimmer profile. They share same personality traits, however, including: a cheerful, fun-loving personality; need for lots and lots of exercise; high intelligence; easy trainability; and a great nose for hunting. In fact, the Flat-Coated Retriever was selectively bred for bird hunting.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breeds stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!

Breed FAQs

Can Flat-Coated Retrievers be apartment dogs?

Flat-Coated Retrievers aren't ideal for apartments, but might be able to live there successfully if there are enough opportunities to find larger spaces nearby to play.

Can Flat-Coated Retrievers be left alone?

While Flat-Coated Retrievers prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Flat-Coated Retrievers good with kids?

Flat-Coated Retrievers are typically excellent with kids. As with any dog it's important to monitor them around children, however they are often very gentle.

Are Flat-Coated Retrievers friendly with strangers?

Flat-Coated Retrievers love other people and will tend to run up to them for affection. They quickly become great friends with anyone.

Do Flat-Coated Retrievers get along with other dogs?

Typically, Flat-Coated Retrievers get along well with other dogs or are easy to socialize with them. It's uncommon that they're overly agressive.

Do Flat-Coated Retrievers bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Flat-Coated Retrievers bark an average amount. You can expect them to bark to alert you, get your attention, or when there are strangers or other dogs.

Do Flat-Coated Retrievers shed a lot?

Flat-Coated Retrievers shed quite a bit. You'll need to brush them often to limit the hair on your floors and clothing.

Do Flat-Coated Retrievers need a lot of grooming?

Flat-Coated Retrievers don't require very much effort for grooming. You'll just need to provide typical maintenance and baths.

Do Flat-Coated Retrievers need a lot of exercise?

Expect Flat-Coated Retrievers to have high energy levels and need a lot of exercise. You'll need to find options to release this energy or they may exibit bad behavior.

Are Flat-Coated Retrievers easy to train?

The Flat-Coated Retriever is smart and extremely trainable. They will learn commands quickly and love the bond of training with their owner.

Can Flat-Coated Retrievers handle cold weather?

Flat-Coated Retrievers do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they'll do well in colder climates.

Can Flat-Coated Retrievers handle hot weather?

Flat-Coated Retrievers do well in hot climates and can stay out longer without overheating.

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