Overview
The Flat-coated Retriever was Britain's favourite gundog before the Labrador took over and is still a serious working retriever, with a fine, flat coat and a tail that never stops. The breed is known for staying young at heart, which makes a four-year-old Flatcoat behave rather like a one-year-old Labrador.
They are affectionate, optimistic and physical. They greet with their whole body, pick up anything that fits in their mouth and assume every person and dog is a friend. For a walker, the job is channelling that into something useful.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and forty minutes a day for a fit adult, including free running and retrieving. Flatcoats have more drive than a typical pet Labrador and need the outlet.
Swimming, dummies and find-it games all work. Puppies grow slowly and should be kept off long runs and repetitive jumping until mature.
On the walk
- Recall: Good when there is a retrieve on offer, but easily distracted by other dogs, water and anything to carry. Use the ball as a reward for coming back.
- Other dogs: Delightfully friendly and sometimes overwhelming. Manage greetings so that smaller or nervous dogs are not flattened.
- Water: Will swim in anything, including canals and the sea. Look at the banks and exits before letting the dog in.
- Carrying: Sticks, shoes, dead things. Teach a swap for a treat and check the mouth before getting back into the van.
Tips for professional walkers
- Bring a floating dummy or ball; it turns a long walk into a satisfying one.
- Towel the feathering and ears after water and check for grass seeds in summer.
- Do not rely on the dog to tire itself; set the end of the walk yourself.
What to ask the owner
- Any lumps, bumps or health concerns the owner is monitoring that you should watch for?
- Does the dog pick up and swallow things, and what does the owner want you to do if it does?
- Is swimming allowed everywhere, and are there spots to avoid?