If you are searching for a great dog breed that can be both the ideal hunting companion and perfect family pet, then a flat coated retriever may be everything you are looking for.

Originally developed from the St. John's Dog, Water Spaniels, Setters and Labrador Retrievers, this breed has become a favorite for many sportsmen (or women) that is looking for a breed to work with in the field.

They are easy to train and have a happy approach to the world around them. They are often referred to as the "Peter Pan" of the dog world and they will happily approach their work with the exuberance of a puppy, even into their senior years.

The Good And Bad of owning a Flat Coated Retriever.

The Flat Coated Retriever is an active breed that is full of life, spirit and has a good natured temperament. They are the quintessential puppy that enjoys playing around at home as much as they enjoy working in the field. While this breed is energetic and has been ranked as an ideal field dog, it is not for everyone. They have a variety of pros and cons and it is important to weigh each one before you choose whether a Flat Coated Retriever is the right breed for you.

The Good

There are many good points about the Flat Coated Retriever breed and at one time they were the preferred breed for field work and conformation. If you are looking for an energetic gundog that enjoys his work and remains the eternal puppy, then this is definitely the breed for you.

o They are intelligent and easy to train if you use positive reinforcement.
o They get along with other pets and do well in multi-dog homes.
o They are great with kids, although they are better suited for older children since they can knock down younger children with their antics.
o They generally love people and are very friendly.
o They work well as retrieving dogs and can work on both sparse and thick foliage and in water.
o They are a versatile breed and do well as both hunting dogs and pets
o They are sweet tempered and can be very funny.

The Bad

As with all dog breeds, there are a number of cons that should be taken into consideration before you purchase a Flat Coated Retriever. The breed has a number of serious health issues, listed in the section below, and they have an active and bouncy personality that does not work for everyone.

o They are average to heavy shedders
o Although they are known for their eager to please personality, some Flat Coated Retrievers can be very stubborn.
o They have high energy levels, which make them unsuitable for apartment living.
o They require large amounts of exercise on a daily basis, usually requiring about 90 minutes each day.
o Flat Coated Retrievers are very sensitive and while this can be a wonderful quality in some ways, it can also be difficult when it comes to training and other areas. They are more likely to shut down and refuse to train if any type of training is used except positive reinforcement.
o They are the "Peter Pan" of the dog world and you can expect to have a happy, bouncy and exuberant puppy until your dog reaches old age.
o If they are left alone for long periods of time they can suffer from separation anxiety. This can lead to barking problems and destructive behavior.
o They are mouthy. This equates to a dog that may nip at hands, carrying objects away and chewing items around the house.
o They are prone to Coprophagy, which is eating their own feces.