History of occurrence
The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in the 1800's by crossing several already established breeds, including the Irish Setter, Labrador, Water Dog, and the St. John's Newfoundland, though one source also mentions the Collie. The breed became popular in Britain amongst the gamekeepers due to its excellent working ability. Due to the two World Wars there was a decline in numbers despite a small group of dedicated breeders maintaining the viability of the breed, until the return of many gamekeepers from World War Two. Since then, numbers have steadily increased. The Flat-Coated Retriever deserves more attention, as he is not only an excellent bird dog and swimmer but also an outstanding family dog. These dogs are gifted with a fine intuition and an excellent sense of smell. The Flat-Coated Retriever is used above all for retrieving on plains and in areas thick with trees and bushes. They are good swimmers and also work well in marshy areas.
General form
A bright, active dog of medium size with an intelligent expression, showing power without lumber, and raciness without weediness.
Отличительная особенность породы Flat-Coated Retriever
Head and skull: the head should be long and nicely moulded. The skull flat and moderately broad. There should be a depression or stop between the eyes, slight and in no way accentuated, so as to avoid giving either a down or a dish-faced appearance. The nose of a good size, with open nostrils. The jaws should be long and strong, with a capacity of carrying a hare or pheasant.
Eyes: should be of medium size, dark-brown or hazel, with a very intelligent expression (a round, prominent eye is a disfigurement) and they should not be obliquely placed.
Ears: should be small and well set-on, close to the side of the head.
Neck: the head should be well set in the neck, which latter should be long and free from throatiness, symmetrically set and obliquely placed in shoulders running well into the back to allow easy seeking for the trail.
Body well ribbed up showing a gradual spring and well arched in centre but rather lighter towards quarters.
Loin short and square
Chest deep and fairly broad, with well defined brisket, on which elbows should move cleanly and evenly.
Forelegs straight, with bone of good quality throughout.
Hindquarters: muscular. Moderate bend of stifle and hock, latter well let down. Should stand true all round.
Feet: round and strong with toes close and well arched. Soles thick and strong.
Short, straight and well set on, gaily carried, but never much above level of back.
Coat: dense, of fine to medium texture and good quality, as flat as possible. Legs and tail well feathered. Full furnishings on maturity complete the elegance of a good dog.
Colour: black or liver only.
Free and flowing, straight and true as seen from front and rear.
Height:
Dogs — 58-61 cm.
Bitches — 56-58 cm.
Weight:
Dogs — 27-36 kg.
Bitches — 25-32 kg.
Character
This good-natured intelligent breed loves making friends. With its stable temperament, the flat coated retriever makes an excellent family dog and loves being around children. They have a puppy-like demeanor throughout their lives. The Flat Coated Retriever is quiet indoors and very active outdoors.
Maintenance care
This active dog needs daily exercise and fun, and especially enjoys the chance to hunt or swim. This is a family-oriented dog that does best when allowed to live inside and play outside. Its coat needs only weekly brushing and little, if any, minor trimming occasionally.
Lifespan — 10-14 years.
Dignity
Flat-Coated Retriever is large and athletic, with the familiar retriever shape and dependable retriever attributes.
Has a pretty feathered coat.
Flat-Coated Retriever is a cheerful tail-wagger.
Thrives on vigorous exercise and athletic activities.
Flat-Coated Retriever is polite with everyone.
Flat-Coated Retriever is peaceful with other animals.
Difficulty keeping
Vigorous exercise requirements.
Rowdiness and exuberant jumping, especially when young or not exercised enough.
Mouthiness -- carrying and chewing objects, mouthing your hands.
Regular brushing and combing.
Shedding.
Serious health problems and a potentially short lifespan.
Diseases
The Flat-Coated Retriever occasionally suffers from diabetes and seizures. There is no major health concern for them. Only a few minor health problems like hemangiosarcoma, canine hip dysplasia (CHD), osteosarcoma, glaucoma, gastric torsion, patellar luxation, and patellar lymphosarcoma can be seen. It is recommended to take them for tests on knee, eye, and hip.
