Flat-Coated Retriever Essential facts And Advice
By John Williams
The Flat-Coated Retriever is not suited to an apartment. She needs at the least, a properly fenced in space to exercise in. She expects to live indoors with her human family. She generally does very well with other pets and loves children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with any puppy or dog. She makes a good watch dog but may try to make friends with a prowler once she announces him.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Flat-Coated Retriever is 22 to 23 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 60 to 70 pounds. The female is smaller than the male.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Flat-Coated Retriever is no exception. Be on the look out for Cancer (common for this breed), Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Patella Luxation (congenital condition in which the kneecap dislocates), epilepsy, diabetes, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness).This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Flat-Coated Retriever has a straight, flat coat with some waviness possible. Her coat is of moderate length with good luster. She is an average shedder and should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
Life Span
The Flat-Coated Retriever can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
History
The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in Great Britain. They were probably developed from a cross between the Labrador, Water Dog, Irish Setter, Newfoundland, Collie and some type of setter. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1915.
About the author
For more information on the flat-coated retriever or a complete list of dog breeds visit this Dog Behaviour website. from http://www.FreeArticlesAndContent.com
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