Dog breeds :
Flat-Coated Retriever / Retriever a poil plat
Ruffwood Foolhardy Maverick CD, owner: Courtney Sweeney & Debbie Porter
General
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a versatile family companion hunting retriever with a
happy and active demeanor, intelligent expression, and clean lines. The Flat-Coat has
been traditionally described as showing "power without lumber and raciness without
weediness." The distinctive and most important features of the Flat-Coat are the
silhouette (both moving and standing), smooth effortless movement, head type, coat
and character. In silhouette the Flat-Coat has a long, strong, clean, "one piece" head,
which is unique to the breed. Free from exaggeration of stop or cheek, the head is set
well into a moderately long neck which flows smoothly into well laid back shoulders. A
level topline combined with a deep, long rib cage tapering to a moderate tuck-up
create the impression of a blunted triangle. The brisket is well developed and the
forechest forms a prominent prow. This utilitarian retriever is well balanced, strong,
but elegant; never cobby, short legged or rangy. The coat is thick and flat lying, and
the legs and tail are well feathered. A proud carriage, responsive attitude, waving tail
and overall look of functional strength, quality, style and symmetry complete the
picture of the typical Flat-Coat.
Judging the Flat-Coat moving freely on a loose lead and standing naturally is more
important than judging him posed. Honorable scars should not count against the dog.
Characteristics
Generously endowed with natural gundog ability, optimism and
friendliness demonstrated by enthusiastic tail action.
Temperament
Character is a primary and outstanding asset of the Flat-Coat. He is a responsive,
loving member of the family, a versatile working dog, multi-talented, sensible, bright
and tractable. In competition the Flat-Coat demonstrates stability and a desire to
please with a confident, happy and outgoing attitude characterized by a wagging tail.
Nervous, hyperactive, apathetic, shy or obstinate behavior is undesirable.
History
he breed was developed in Britain. It was probably the result of crosses
of the St. John's Newfoundland, the setter, the sheepdog and spaniel-like
water dogs. The founder of the Kennel Club of England, Mr. E. Shirley, did
a great deal to promote the breed in the 1870's. There is very little
difference in the dogs being shown and the field or hunting type. This is to
the breeders' credit. It is hoped that this total dog concept is continued in
the breed's future.
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