Flat Coated Retriever Breed description: Character & Co

What are the typical character traits of the Flat Coated Retriever?

One thing is for sure: You will certainly not be bored with a Flat Coated Retriever. The animals are very adventurous and up for anything that might seem like fun. Because of their urge to move, it is suitable for sporty families who like to be outdoors. No matter whether it is hikes, bicycle tours, jogging or walking, the breed is happy to go outside every day. Agility and Flyball are just a few of the dog sports that give pleasure to this agile friend.

The Flat Coated Retriever especially loves children: it is always gentle and good-natured towards the youngest family members. However, it is not very suitable as a watchdog, because it greets strangers with a wagging tail. This human-friendly character will be of benefit if you want to take the four-legged friend with you to work or when traveling. If you want to buy a Flat Coated Retriever, you should be prepared for its typical British stubbornness. Therefore, consistency is required when training your pet whenever they question the rules. Exaggerated harshness is counterproductive when dealing with this sensitive animal, as it gets very disturbed by it. Because of their eagerness to work and their intelligence, the breed is also suitable as a rescue or avalanche dog.

What are typical diseases of Flat Coated Retrievers?

As with all breeds that have drooping ears, you should check your pet's hearing organ regularly. It can develop

• ear infections when small injuries are not treated. Never use cotton swabs for cleaning, but rather a special product provided by the vet.
• Unlike Labradors or Golden Retrievers, the Flat Coated Retriever rarely suffers from hip joint dysplasia.
• However, it is important that you keep an eye on the weight of your pet. The breed loves treats, but for the sake of their own health, they should be given in moderation.

What should be considered in regards to Flat Coated Retriever breeding?

There are strict rules for flat Coated Retriever breeding. For example, if puppies are born that are not black or liver brown in colour, they are excluded from breeding. Since the number of litters is moderate, you may have to wait some time for a Flat Coated Retriever puppy to become available. Information about current litters can be obtained for example from the Austrian Retriever Club.