Puppy Dog Breed Flat-Coated Retriever
Latest Flat-Coated Retriever Latest News
Latest Flat-Coated Retriever Frequently Asked Questions:
I'm looking for a reliable breeder on the Main Line. We're willing to go New Jersey, Delaware, anywhere in the Tri-State area. Please help; this is very important to our family!
Answer:Contact and ask these guys: Flat-Coated Retriever Society of America, Inc. Corresponding Secretary : Joan Dever Address: 13208 Mandarin Rd, Jacksonville, FL , 32223-1746 Website: www.fcrsainc.org Email: devrfcr@aol.com Club Type: Specialty
I just went on animal planet.com and took the pet match quiz, and that was my match 100%. it even said 100%,lol. So, I want to know a little about them. I might be getting a dog soon, and i need to know some options. So, i want to know: (1)r they good dogs? 2. Do they shed alot? 3.how big do they get? 5. r they mean, or sweet? 6.how long did yours live? and any other info that u want to give me, thanks!
Answer:LOVE HIM HE"S MY BABY BOY. <---------- Top left on his back legs. He's four sweet as can be and he does shed but his hair is so soft and cuddly!!! Added: He gets the most attention in the parades. He doesn't like it but he does it. My neighbor calls him cujo because if another animal does come through mommy he gets mean. He is my alpha but not dominant. He's like the daddy of the pack. Kind and loving when need be and stern when a foster is acting out of line. At bed time he will come up and lay his head on the mattress and wait for mommy to get settled and tell him he can come up. They are often mistaken in shelters as newf and lab mixes. Its hard to tell when they are puppies. But since I have gotten him I have seen several but he's the prettiest one ever. Shiney as can be. Adding more: I am amazed no one else has a flat coat. I read the other post of animal planet and its right on the mark too. He loves water as long as his feet touch. He will go in the wave pool with mommy but swims like a bandit without a life vest. Perfect family dog will bring me toys I squeak them he bouces I throw he goes and brings it back to mommy. This was natural he taught me to play fetch. Gorgeous as he runs more like a horse than a dog.
Answer:digging instict
I'm from the Bronx and I have heard the negative stories about petsmart training...any suggestions on good trainers. Thank You to all that reply!!
Answer:Wow, you're incredibly lucky - they're amazing dogs and hard to find. I have one and I got lucky to find a litter. The most important thing is to get going NOW! At nine months the dog has already gone through much of its development for better or worse, so you need to encourage the good habits and break the bad. Also, are you sure you have a true flattie? There are flattie wannabe dogs - crosses between golden and black labs. If you're unsure, look at some pics on the 'net - their head is longer and narrower than goldens and labs. Obedience is about much more than just commands, so here are some steps for you to follow: First: use google and research the breed characteristics like crazy. Call a breeder if you have to. Really understand the dog you just got. In a nutshell: Fast learners, really smart, but willful (like a lot of retrieving breeds) and they bore more quickly than some breeds - you need to understand this for obedience training. They still retain a lot of the "drive" associated with bird dogs and you need to understand this and use it to your advantage e.g. games of tug, hide & seek, fetch, etc will all help keep your dog obedient and happy. Second: purchase one of Ian Dunbar's books. Read it fast, because you need to get moving. He is the leader of the positive reinforcement camp of dog training. Flatties and most dogs will learn much more quickly with food lures and positive reinforcement. Flatties are very sensitive - they simply do not respond well to harsh corrections (although I've used the odd scruff shake for things I consider life threatening to the dog, e.g. jumping up on my gas range) Third: Find an obedience trainer that uses positive reinforcement techniques. Search google, ask friends or your neighbourhood vet for recommendations. Get references and be armed with a list of questions - you want to make sure their philosophy aligns with yours. I would NOT use petsmart, because I need to have a really good idea of my trainer's background and philosophy. This dog will be an integral part of your life for 10 + years, so no short cuts. Pet training is a growth industry - there are lots of goods ones out there. Seek and ye shall find. One other note - find a trainer that's handled flat-coats and/or various other types of retrievers. Retrievers have different issues than, say pugs or some such. Fourth: I highly recommend you do obedience classes - your dog has already gone through a lot of development (for better and worse) and you need to gauge his level of socialization. Classes with other dogs gives you a controlled atmosphere to work with him, but also work on socialization. The best of both worlds is to find a trainer you like who runs classes, but can give you private sessions as well. Fifth: make absolutely sure of two things: a. your dog is getting consistent exercise and mental stimulation e.g. at least 1 hr per day of combo walks/obedience training b. he is part of your family. Flatties absolutely need to spend time with their families - they are not backyard dogs. Sixth: Be firm. They're very smart and smart dogs will test you. Seventh: Love them and let them love you. These dogs are incredible. Very smart, affectionate, loyal, great with people and kids. The onus is on you to give them sufficient exercise (true of most dogs) and mental stimulation. Sorry for not giving you a name directly, but use my suggestions above, and it won't take you long to find somebody. Enjoy your flattie!! They are a truly wonderful breed.
Just curious to see who else owns one?
Answer:I have 3/4 flat coat, 1/4 black lab. 3 years old. Great dog. Friendly, smart and happy.
