The Flat-Coated Retriever

Flat-Coated Retriever is a breed of gun-dog that originates from, and was developed in, the United Kingdom. The breed was developed in the mid-19th century to be a retriever that is capable of retrieving prey both on land and in the water. The Flat-Coated Retriever is believed to be a descendant of the now extinct St. John's Water Dog which originated from North America. However it is also believed that the Flat-Coated Retriever is also related to the Canadian Newfoundland (a Collie-type dog) and the Setter. The Newfoundland blood was used to give the Flat-Coated Retriever an increased level of trainability whereas the Setter blood was used to give the Flat-Coated Retriever an enhanced ability to scent prey. The Flat-Coated Retriever has a strong muscular jaw and a relatively long muzzle which makes it extremely capable of carrying birds and upland game. The Flat-Coated Retriever has a unique head which is described as being 'of one piece, ' which means that its back-skull is a similar length to its muzzle. The Flat-Coated Retriever has dark brown, almond shaped eyes which give the breed an intelligent and friendly expression. The breed has relatively small ears that hang close the dog's head in a pendant shape. The Flat-Coated Retriever has a light body build than most other Retrievers which aids in the breed's ability to be lighter on its feet, racier and have a more elegant appearance. The Flat-Coated Retriever's coat comes in a solid black or a solid liver (brownish-red) coloration. The breed's coat is straight, moderately long and dense which allows the Flat-Coated Retriever to be protected from all types of weather conditions, water and ground cover. The breed has a lot of feather across its ears, chest, front, backs of its forelegs, underside and tail which aids in the coat's protective function. Due to the fact that it is a Retriever, the Flat-Coated Retriever is a highly intelligent and energetic breed. It is therefore important to make sure that you properly exercise your Flat-Coated Retriever (both physically and mentally) as it is likely to develop destructive behaviors due to boredom or having an abundance of energy. However the Flat-Coated Retriever is also a highly trainable and eager to please breed that excels in obedience related activities. Due to the fact that the Flat-Coated Retriever is incredibly loyal, friendly and trainable, it makes a perfect household pet as it is very easy to socialize with children, strangers and other household pets. Before purchasing any pet it is important to understand that as a pet owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet. It is important to try and learn as much as you can about the animal you are considering to keep as a pet to make sure that your lifestyle, household and financial status are suited to provide your pet with the best possible care. This guide has been designed to provide you with both precise and concise information about a Flat-Coated Retriever's basic needs to help you provide your pet with the best quality care practices. This guide will give an in-depth explanation on training your Flat-Coated Retriever, raising your Flat-Coated Retriever from a puppy, grooming, health care and everything in between! "The Flat-Coated Retriever: A Complete and Comprehensive Owners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your Flat-Coated Retriever." by Michael Stonewood is the perfect purchase or gift for a first time Flat-Coated Retriever owner. This guide includes sections on caring for a puppy, breeding, health care, training, the basic cost of owning a Flat-Coated Retriever and much more. This book is the second edition - the first edition was published by 'Dog Care Professionals.'