Flat Retriever (Straight-Eared Retriever)

Origin of the breed: The Flat Retriever was bred in Great Britain in the late 19th century by crossing various breeds such as the Labrador, Cocker Spaniel and Water Spaniel. The aim was to create the perfect hunting dog for land and water work.

Development of the breed: The Flat Retriever quickly became a popular breed in Britain and was used as a hunting dog for waterfowl. Later, in the mid-twentieth century, they became popular as companion animals, what was after “as companion animals,”?

Physical characteristics

Size and weight: Flat Retrievers are a medium sized breed. They range in height at withers from 56 to 61 cm and weigh between 27 and 36 kg.

Color and coat: The coat of Flat Retrievers is smooth and straight, without luster or streaks. Coloration can vary from golden to dark red, copper or cream.

Features of the muzzle and ears: The muzzle of the Flat Retriever is short and broad. The ears are fin-shaped and fit over the head.

Character and Care Requirements

Character and behavior: Flat Retrievers are friendly and affectionate, well suited for families with children and other pets. They have a high energy level and require regular exercise and training.

Grooming Requirements:

  • Daily grooming Fleet Retrievers’ coats require daily grooming to avoid drying and tangling.
  • Regular brushing and clipping will help keep the coat healthy and beautiful.
  • Physical activity and training Flat Retrievers need daily exercise such as walking, running or playing games to stay healthy and happy. They also need exercise to develop their hunting skills and keep fit.
  • Health and Longevity Flat Retrievers have some healthy issues that can affect their quality of life.
  • Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and care can help improve their health and extend their lives.

Use as a hunting and companion dog

Hunting Qualities:

  1. Waterfowl hunting Flat Retrievers are ideal for waterfowl hunting. They have good swimming ability, their keen sense of smell helps them find game, and their soft bite and gentle submission help them avoid damaging prey.
  2. Search and Rescue Flat Retrievers can be used as search and rescue dogs because of their stamina and training. They can search for people and even locate lost objects.

Companion qualities:

  1. Family Pet Flat Retrievers are affectionate and friendly dogs that are well suited as family pets. They are loyal to their owners and bond well with other family members.
  2. Therapy dogs Flat Retrievers can also be used as therapy dogs because of their friendliness and ability to connect with people. They can help recover from injury or illness, reduce stress levels and improve mood.

Top 10 facts about the Flathead Retriever:

  1. The Flathead Retriever, also known as the Straight-Eared Retriever, was bred in Great Britain in the late 19th century by crossing various breeds such as the Labrador, Cocker Spaniel and Water Spaniel.
  2. Flat Retrievers have a friendly and affectionate personality that makes them great family pets.
  3. Flat Retrievers have excellent swimming ability and a keen sense of smell, making them ideal for hunting waterfowl.
  4. This dog breed requires regular exercise and training to stay healthy and happy.
  5. Flat Retrievers have straight and smooth coats that require daily grooming to avoid drying and tangling.
  6. Flat Retrievers range in height at the withers from 56 to 61 cm and weigh from 27 to 36 kg.
  7. This breed of dog has been used as a search and rescue dog because of its stamina and training.
  8. Flat Retrievers can be used as therapy dogs because of their friendliness and ability to make contact with people.
  9. They have a short and wide muzzle and fin-shaped ears that fit over the head.
  10. Flat Retrievers have an average activity level, which makes them great companions for people who like to spend time outdoors.

Conclusion

The Flathead Retriever is a breed of dog that was bred in Great Britain for hunting waterfowl. This breed of dog has a friendly and affectionate personality, making them great family pets. Flat Retrievers also have high swimming ability, a keen sense of smell, and require regular exercise and training to stay healthy and happy. Flat Retrievers’ coats are smooth and straight, and their muzzles are short and wide. They can be used as hunting dogs, search and rescue dogs and therapy dogs. If you are looking for a friendly and energetic pet that will be a great companion for you and your family, the Flat Retriever may be the perfect choice for you.