Flat Coat Retriever

Flat coat retrievers originated in UK in the mid-19th century. Their ancestors may include dogs imported from USA which bred with local stock. They were used for retrieving birds from land or water. Hunting dogs should be kept lean - never fat. Your vet will advise on the proper food. The mouth must be big enough, and the neck strong enough, to carry a duck or pheasant.

The coat is long & feathered on legs & tail, but shorter - lying flat - on the body. The hair is long on the ears. Brushing helps to keep the coat shiny.

Unaggressive, and always young at heart, flat coated retrievers like to play and run around. They are good outdoor dogs for those who like jogging or hiking. Flat coat retrievers love exploring the countryside and swimming in rivers. Being a boisterous breed, they do best in a big yard.

They are responsive and like being around people. Puppies should be trained with kindness and patience.

Average lifespan is 10 years. Cancer is a common cause of death.

Color: solid liver, or solid black. A liver dog has a brown nose, a black dog has a black nose.

The length of the body is greater than the height at the shoulder.

Height at shoulder: males, 23 to 24.5 inches. Females 22 to 23.5 inches. 

Weight: 55 to 70 lbs.

Class: gundog

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How breeds developed