Discover Everything About Flat Coated Retriever
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
Flat Coated Retriever overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The Flat Coated Retriever receives a grade of C. While joint issues such as elbow dysplasia (ED) are well-controlled through mandatory health tests in breeding programs, the breed remains susceptible to hip dysplasia (HD) and carries an above-average risk for aggressive cancers such as malignant histiocytosis. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to a long-lived and healthy ancestral line.
Lifespan
10–12 yrs
Height
57–62 cm
Weight
25–36 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,500 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Dense, medium length, smooth with a good undercoat
- Origin: Great Britain
Typical coat colors
- Black or liver colored
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Flat Coated Retriever, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the Flat Coated Retriever right for you?
The Flat Coated Retriever is an eternally youthful, exuberant Apportierhund (retriever) — bred to tirelessly and gently retrieve game from water and reeds, which has quite rightly earned it the reputation as the "Peter Pan" of the dog world.
Perfect for you if:
- You want to incorporate daily dummy work, tracking, or search and rescue training — no dog of this breeding is mentally satisfied with just walks.
- You have the humor and patience for a dog that takes an extremely long time to grow up and often expresses its bubbling joy very physically.
- You are looking for a people-friendly companion who views visitors and strange dogs as best friends rather than threats.
- You enjoy being outdoors in any weather and have absolutely no problem with a wet, muddy dog in the car.
Less ideal if:
- You expect him to sleep on the sofa after a short walk like a cozy companion dog — his genetics demand real, focused tasks.
- You are looking for a vigilant dog to guard your home and property — a Flat Coated Retriever would happily wag its tail and fetch the silverware for burglars.
- You would have to leave him alone for many hours at a time — he is extremely people-oriented and will wither without your direct daily contact.
- You are easily annoyed by stormy greetings and a tail that acts like a windshield wiper, occasionally clearing off the coffee table.
The real vibes check
A Flat Coated Retriever is almost always carrying something in its mouth — be it a dummy, your slipper, or simply pure enthusiasm for the day. He is not a dog that just fades into the background; he is an eternal optimist who views life as one big team project. If you channel this stormy, work-hungry cheerfulness through real training, you will get the most loyal, guaranteed mood-booster imaginable.
Breed Profile
The Flat Coated Retriever, often affectionately referred to as "Flat", is an elegant and shiny appearance. His physique is athletic, well proportioned and shows a natural grace. Its coat is dense, medium length and shiny, often giving it the appearance of a "four-legged gentleman". A striking feature is its long head, shaped almost like a wedge, with a strong snout and expressive eyes. The Flat Coated Retriever belongs to FCI Group 8, the retrieving dogs, searching dogs and water dogs. Within this group it can be found in the retriever section. This breed does not differentiate between performance and show lines, meaning that all Flat Coated Retrievers are suitable for both show and work tasks.
| Height | 57 - 59 cm (Female), 59 - 62 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 25 - 32 kg (Female), 27 - 36 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 10 - 12 years |
| Character | Happy, social, energetic |
| Coat | Dense, medium length, smooth with a good undercoat |
| Coat Color | Black or liver colored |
| Price | 1500 - 2500 € |
History
The Flat Coated Retriever comes from Great Britain and was originally bred as a hunting dog in the 19th century. It evolved from a mixture of different dog breeds, including the Newfoundland, the Labrador and possibly the Irish Setter. The Flat Coated Retriever was bred specifically to retrieve waterfowl and serve as a working dog for hunters. This breed was first known as the Wavy Coated Retriever and over time evolved into what we know today as the Flat Coated Retriever. He was valued for his ability to pick up game with a soft mouth and bring it back to the hunter undamaged. The Flat Coated Retriever was recognized as a separate breed by the British Kennel Club in 1915. It was very popular in Britain in the 1920s, but lost some popularity after the Second World War, particularly to the Labrador Retriever. However, in recent years it has regained popularity, both as a family dog and as a working dog.
The Flat Coated Retriever was bred as a retrieving dog for water and land hunting.
Great Britain
1800
Character & Temperament
Flat Coated Retrievers are known for keeping a puppy's heart well into old age. They are incredibly happy, friendly and outgoing dogs. If you're looking for a dog that enjoys life to the fullest, the Flat could be just the one for you. As retrievers, Flats are of course also known to love retrieving. This makes them great companions for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They have a natural affinity for water and are excellent swimmers, which is why they are often used in water sports. Their friendly and social nature also makes them wonderful family dogs. They are very people-oriented and build close bonds with their family members. Flats are known for getting along well with children and other pets. However, they are not guard dogs. Their open and friendly nature means they tend to like everyone they meet, even strangers. But that doesn't mean they can't be good alarm dogs because they will often bark when someone is at the door. When it comes to being alone, it is important to get a Flat Coated Retriever used to it from an early age. They are socially oriented and love being in company. A Flat that is regularly left alone for long periods of time can develop behavioral problems. An important characteristic of the breed is its energy level. They are very energetic and need enough exercise every day. Their urge to move and their intelligence also mean that they need to be mentally challenged. Because they were originally bred as hunting dogs, Flat Coated Retrievers have a certain hunting instinct. It is important to teach them to control these urges, especially when they are in areas with wildlife.
| Trainability Bred to work closely alongside humans. | Highly trainable |
| Watchfulness Occasionally alerts but is fundamentally open. | Low |
| Openness to Strangers Warms up quickly and is generally welcoming. | Friendly |
| Hunting or Herding Drive Noticeable drive — needs attention around small animals. | Moderate |
Fun Fact!
Flat Coated Retrievers are often considered the “Peter Pans” of dogs because they retain their playful and youthful personalities even into adulthood!
What Awaits You
Flat Coated Retrivers are fast, active dogs with a high hunting motivation. They are suitable for sporty dog owners who can exercise this dog according to its type.
Housing & Care
The Flat Coated Retriever is an active dog and is therefore more suitable for living in a house with a garden than in a city apartment. If he is still kept in the city, regular walks and trips are necessary run essential. They are generally very social and get along well with children and other animals. However, a close eye should always be kept on the interaction between dogs and small children.
| Family Friendly Lives for its family — the born family companion. | Ideal family dog |
| Child Friendly Extraordinarily patient and loving — a true family dog. | Excellent with children |
| Dog Friendly Actively enjoys the company of other dogs. | Dog-friendly |
| City Friendly City-appropriate with enough exercise and stimulation. | Manageable in cities |
Owning a dog is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you must be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails!!
Training & Education
Flats are intelligent dogs that crave mental and physical stimulation. Their natural retrieving behavior can be encouraged by including retrieving games and sports such as flyball. They are also excellent swimmers and love water sports. It is important to ensure a balanced activity so as not to overwhelm the dog. Because Flats have high energy levels, they can become "ball junkies" if they become too focused on ball games. It's important to offer a varied exercise program that includes both physical and mental stimulation. It is also important for this breed that the dog learns frustration tolerance and impulse control. Training should start early and be based on positive reinforcement.
Nutrition & Care
Flat Coated Retrievers benefit from a balanced diet that contains high-quality protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. It is advisable to pay attention to a species-appropriate diet that is specifically tailored to the needs of active dogs. Being overweight should be avoided as it can put additional strain on the joints. In terms of grooming, the Flat Coated Retriever has a medium-length, dense coat with an undercoat. The undercoat helps them stay warm in the colder months and is well suited to the climate in Germany. However, they shed all year round and especially during the shedding period in spring and autumn. Regular brushing, about twice a week, is important to prevent mats and keep the skin and coat healthy.
| Care Level Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs Needs several hours of serious exercise every day. | Very active |
| Shedding Regular shedding — dog hair on clothes is now normal. | Moderate |
| Trainability Bred to work closely alongside humans. | Highly trainable |
This information is currently being reviewed by experts. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de!!
Health
Solid, watch carefully
Health grade
The Flat Coated Retriever receives a grade of C. While joint issues such as elbow dysplasia (ED) are well-controlled through mandatory health tests in breeding programs, the breed remains susceptible to hip dysplasia (HD) and carries an above-average risk for aggressive cancers such as malignant histiocytosis. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to a long-lived and healthy ancestral line.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
You should pay attention to a healthy weight and joint-friendly exercise, as well as schedule regular veterinary check-ups to detect any changes early on.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders have the hips, elbows, knees, and eyes of the parent animals examined and pay special attention to longevity and healthy bloodlines when planning a litter.
No Health Tests Available
No specific health tests are currently available for this breed.
Experiences with the Flat Coated Retriever
Manuela S., Halterin aus dem Münsterland (Rüde, seit 2021)
Wir haben uns vor zwei Jahren für einen Flat-Rüden als Ersthund entschieden. Er ist ein unglaublich fröhlicher, freundlicher Hund, der wirklich jeden und alles liebt. Er ist absolut menschenbezogen und will am liebsten immer mitten im Geschehen sein.
Allerdings darf man das Temperament nicht unterschätzen. In der Hundeschule wurde uns schnell klar, dass Flats sehr viel Geduld fordern. Unser Rüde ist extrem temperamentvoll und im „Freudentaumel“ manchmal richtig tollpatschig. Er will einfach jeden begrüßen und vergisst dabei vor lauter Energie völlig seine Manieren. Man muss sehr konsequent daran arbeiten, diese überschäumende Freude in geordnete Bahnen zu lenken.
Wir machen viel Apportier- und Ballspiele mit ihm und er darf am Wochenende ausgiebig schwimmen. Ohne diese Auslastung merkt man sofort, wie unruhig er wird. Ein Flat ist eben kein gemütlicher Mitläufer, sondern braucht aktive Beschäftigung und eine liebevolle, aber sehr konsequente Erziehung. Wer wenig Zeit hat oder einen ruhigen Hund sucht, ist mit dieser Rasse definitiv falsch beraten.
Sabine K., Halterin aus Bayern (Hündin, seit 2018)
Ich habe mich vor Jahren in das elegante Aussehen und das fröhliche Wesen des Flats verliebt. Heute kann ich bestätigen: Er ist wirklich der „Clown“ unter den Retrievern und heckt ständig kleine Streiche aus. Seine Lernfähigkeit ist enorm, er versteht Kommandos blitzschnell und will seinem Menschen immer gefallen.
Aber die Kehrseite der Medaille ist seine sensible und langsame Entwicklung. Man sagt nicht umsonst, dass ein Flat viel länger braucht, um erwachsen zu werden, als ein Labrador oder Golden Retriever. Er hat ein sehr sensibles Wesen und verträgt absolut keine harte Hand, gleichzeitig fordert sein überschäumendes Temperament in der Jugend extreme Geduld.
Zudem muss man sich als Halter intensiv mit der Gesundheit auseinandersetzen. Die Rasse hat leider eine bekannte Anfälligkeit für Krebserkrankungen, weshalb die Lebenserwartung bei manchen Hunden leider recht kurz sein kann. Eine sehr sorgfältige Auswahl eines seriösen Züchters, der auf Gesundheit und langlebige Linien achtet, ist bei dieser Rasse das A und O.
Nadine W., Halterin aus Österreich (Hündin, seit 2022)
Unsere Flat-Hündin ist im Haus und im Umgang mit Kindern die absolute Gutmütigkeit in Person. Sie ist unglaublich lieb und sanft. Aber man muss sich im Klaren darüber sein, dass diese Hunde eine enorme Portion Auslastung fordern. Wenn sie nicht mental und körperlich gefordert werden, suchen sie sich selbst Beschäftigung.
Unsere Hündin neigt bei Unterforderung dazu, eigene Wege zu gehen und ist uns in der Anfangszeit sogar über den Zaun ausgebüxt. Zudem hat sie absolut keinen Schutztrieb: Sie würde buchstäblich mit jedem Fremden sofort mitgehen, weil sie alle Menschen gleichermaßen liebt. Man hat hier keinen Hund, der sich nur an eine Person bindet und Fremden gegenüber misstrauisch ist.
Auch das Thema Jagdtrieb und die rassetypische „Hibbeligkeit“ darf man nicht unterschätzen. Es erfordert viel Training, dem Flat beizubringen, sich ruhig zu konzentrieren, da sie sich schnell von allem ablenken lassen, was sich bewegt. Für uns ist sie ein Traumhund, aber sie fordert täglich vollen Einsatz und viel Beschäftigung wie Dummyarbeit.
sinngemäß aus echten Halterberichten
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Frequently asked questions about the Flat Coated Retriever
Is a Flat Coated Retriever the right dog for me?
The Flat Coated Retriever is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Flat Coated Retriever live?
The average life expectancy of a Flat Coated Retriever is 10-12 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Flat Coated Retriever need?
Flat Coated Retriever grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Flat Coated Retriever good for families with children?
The Flat Coated Retriever can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
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