About Flat-Coated Retrievers

Flat-Coated Retrievers are called the “Peter Pan” of dogs, because of their joyful, youthful personalities. They were originally bred in the 19th century as dual-purpose hunting dogs (waterfowl and upland game). Today, they are just as beloved as family companions as they are in the field, they love snuggling in bed as much as they love running and swimming.

With their soft, flowing coats and distinctively sleek heads, Flat-Coats have both an elegant and athletic appearance that sets them apart from other retrievers. Unlike some breeds that mellow with age, Flat-Coats are known for keeping their playful, happy-go-lucky spirit well into adulthood, but they are very trainable (with positive motivation!) and excellent at dog sports and even as therapy dogs.

They are friendly, outgoing, affectionate, people-oriented, and always ready for fun. They thrive in active households where they are included in daily life and given plenty of exercise. Their natural enthusiasm makes them excellent partners for outdoor adventures, training, and dog sports, but it also means they can be a bit too exuberant if not given outlets for their energy.

Unlike some other retrievers, there are not separate "show lines" and "field lines." All Flat-Coats are bred to be excellent in the show ring as well as excellent in the field. Flat-Coats are natural athletes and are great for hunting, hiking companions, agility, dock diving, search and rescue, rally...and just about anything that lets them have fun with their humans! When it's time to wind down for the day, they are super-snugglers.

Another unique feature of Flat-Coats is that they don't have the thick undercoat that golden retrievers, shepherds, and many other breeds have. They are still happy to swim in icy cold water or run around in the snow in subzero temperatures, but they dry much faster and the volume of shedding is much less (but they still shed enough to test the limits of your vacuum cleaner!).

Click here to read the AKC Flat-Coated Retriever Breed Standard