Flat-Coated Retriever

England (19th century, bred as a hunting and retrieving dog for waterfowl)

Weight

25-36 kg

Height

56-61 cm shoulder height

Lifespan

8-10 years (one of the shortest lifespans among retrievers)

The Flat-Coated Retriever is the most cheerful dog you will probably ever encounter — he greets every day as if it were his first. He is inexhaustibly enthusiastic, remains puppy-like his entire life and shares his joy with everyone nearby. Taking things seriously rarely works for him.

Character & traits

Energy

Affection

Playfulness

Watchfulness

With children

With other dogs

With strangers

Trainability

For beginners

Shedding

Drooling

Practical

Exercise per day: 1 to 2 hours
Max alone: 4 hours
Garden needed: Yes
Apartment: Less suitable
Insurance: €60–90/mo
Food: €65–95/mo

Frequently asked questions

Is the Flat-Coated Retriever suitable for beginners?+

Manageable, but not the easiest for beginners. The Flat-Coated Retriever benefits from consistent training and clear boundaries — achievable with the right guidance.

How much exercise does a Flat-Coated Retriever need?+

The Flat-Coated Retriever needs 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day. This breed needs an active owner with time for extended outings.

Is the Flat-Coated Retriever good with children?+

Yes, the Flat-Coated Retriever is great with children — patient, playful, and forgiving. A solid family dog.

Want to know if the Flat-Coated Retriever really suits you?

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What Flat-Coated Retriever owners typically need

🥩

Food

Large breed food

Kibble for large dogs — supports joints and contains less fat.

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🎾

Accessories

Sturdy harness

High-energy dogs pull more. A good harness gives you control without pressure on the throat.

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✂️

Grooming

Undercoat brush

Heavy shedders need regular brushing. An undercoat brush removes loose hair before it covers your couch.

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Recommended for Flat-Coated Retriever

Butternut Box

Freshly cooked, personalised meals delivered to your door — no kibble, no fuss

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Onlinehondenspeciaalzaak.nl

Affordable training supplies for dogs — leashes, collars and more

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Petsexclusive.nl

Premium food and supplies for dogs — nearly 10,000 products

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🛡️ Insurance

A basic policy for the Flat-Coated Retriever typically runs €60–€90/month in the Netherlands — US rates vary but are usually comparable. The exact amount depends on the dog's age and the insurer.

Is pet insurance worth it for this breed? →