Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Flat-Coated Retriever

Although flat-coated retriever puppies are adorable little balls of fur, they are especially frolicsome and can often be a handful to care for.

This breed’s exact origin is uncertain, though it is believed to be a crossbreed of the Labrador retriever and the Newfoundland. When it first appeared in a dog show in 1859, it was called the wavy-coated retriever because its coat was much more similar to the Labrador’s than it is now. Within a few years, however, it had developed the characteristic coat of soft, jet-black fur lying flat against its body. Its other distinguishing feature is its powerful, compact body (it’s the smallest retriever).

Flat coated retrieves, cheerful and gentle, are excellent swimmers (their waterproof coats serve as natural thermal swimsuits), and they continue to love to play in water throughout their lives. They make excellent hunting dogs on land and in wet areas, and they require much space and time for exercise.

Occasional brushing will keep this dog’s coat clean and shinny, extra care is important during shedding, and their droopy ears need to be cleaned regularly.

Origin : United Kingdom
Size : (male) Height 23-24 inches ; weight 56-78 pounds
(female) Height 22-23 inches ; weight 49-71 pounds
Coat : Black or liver

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