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Flat-coated Retriever

Loved by 84% of pet parents

A joyful, energetic, and affectionate breed that thrives on companionship and adventure. Loved for their glossy black coats and playful, optimistic spirit.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

58–61.5 cm (male)

56–59 cm (female)

WEIGHT

27–32 kg (male)

25–29 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

8–10 years

Flat-coated Retriever: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Flat-coated Retriever isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Flat-coated Retriever's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The Flat-coated Retriever is friendly, sociable, and known for its cheerful disposition. This breed is typically good-natured and enjoys being around people and other animals.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Very sociable and enjoys human companionship

Intelligence

Quick to learn and responds well to training

Energy Level

High stamina, needs regular physical activity

Playfulness

Loves games, always eager to play

Adaptability

Adjusts well to new situations and changes

Strengths

Friendly with people and other dogs
Highly trainable and eager to please
Excellent retrieving and swimming ability
Consistent playful and happy temperament
Generally healthy with good lifespan

Challenges

Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
Needs significant daily exercise and activity
High grooming needs due to feathered coat
Can be overly exuberant or boisterous
Susceptible to cancer compared to other breeds

Protect your Flat-coated Retriever

Flat-coated Retriever are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and cancer. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.

Insure your pet

Intelligence & exercise needs

Flat-coated Retrievers are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Quick learner

Overall rating

Flat-coated Retrievers are intelligent and quick to learn but can be easily distracted. Consistent, positive training methods are effective, and they respond well to reward-based approaches.

Trainable Tasks:

Retrieving game from water

Scent detection training

Agility course navigation

Search and rescue tasks

Therapy dog visits

Advanced recall skills

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

90–120 minutes daily

recommended per day

This breed has high energy levels and requires plenty of daily exercise, including both physical activity and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and training sessions are essential to keep them healthy and happy.

Recommended Activities:

Dock diving competitions

Off-leash park play

Swimming sessions

Obedience trials

Canine freestyle dancing

Long-distance jogging

Is this breed right for you?

Flat-coated Retrievers are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Flat-coated Retriever would fit well in your home.