Flat-Coated Retriever Breed Profile

The 'clown' of the gundog breeds, the Flat-coated Retriever is also an extravagant working dog. They were the breed of choice for gamekeepers up until the 1900s. Sadly, by the end of the Second World War the breed had nearly died out. Thankfully, successful breeding programmes since have made the breed popular and plentiful once again.

Don't be fooled by their affable comic qualities, the Flat-coat is a highly intelligent and sensitive breed. They love water and will happily splash in puddles and streams with great enthusiasm.

The Flat-coat is a large dog ranging in height from 56-61cm.

Cancer is a problem with this breed. A free monitoring scheme is currently operated by Cambridge Veterinary School; removed lumps, blood samples and pedigree can be sent for analysis. The breed has also been added to glaucoma-affected list.

Flat-coats are a people orientated breed, which just wants to please. They are best kept as house dogs and don't kennel well

Remember! All breed profiles are general and every dog is an individual.