Is the Flat Coated Retriever dog a health breed?
Posted on April 2nd, 2010 by admin
Is the Flat Coated Retriever dog a health breed or not?
If not a health breed please tell me what the health issue are.
Thanks
I have not owned one personally, but, my friend jeanbail who posts in here occasionally is a long time owner and very involved with the breed.
I remember him talking about them not making it to age 9 because of some sort of either cancer or heart related issue once.
I will email him and see if he can post an answer here.
April 2nd, 2010 at 11:45 am
I have not owned one personally, but, my friend jeanbail who posts in here occasionally is a long time owner and very involved with the breed.
I remember him talking about them not making it to age 9 because of some sort of either cancer or heart related issue once.
I will email him and see if he can post an answer here.
References :
Realist
April 2nd, 2010 at 12:29 pm
The Flat Coated Retriever is a hardworking and generally healthy breed; they have a naturally strong stamina and will stay most healthy with plenty of Exercise and rest. Still, it is important to note that cancer is quite common in this breed. Regular tests and clearances for hereditary conditions are important, and these dogs will require these on a regular basis. There are also some special medical conditions to be aware of. Hip dysplasia: Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) can cause mild to severe lameness. Diabetes: this is occasionally found in the Flat Coated Retriever. Epilepsy: a neurological seizure disorder. There is no test for this. Deafness: Congenital Deafness can be a problem. The most common types of cancers in these dogs include hemangiosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, malignant histiocytosis, and osteosarcoma. These seem to occur at higher rates in Flat Coated Retrievers than other breeds, and it is important to note that almost 75% of deaths are actually due to cancer. Hope I helped x
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April 2nd, 2010 at 1:12 pm
I would say there isnt much of a difference in which one is healthier. However i do know heart troubles and hip dysplasia are both very common in this breed. Seek advice from your vet.
References :
April 2nd, 2010 at 1:40 pm
There is no such thing as a completely healthy breed. Every breed has some propensity for genetic health issues. This is why reputable breeders do the appropriate breed specific tests before breeding.
Most larger breeds are prone to hip and/or elbow dysplasia or eye problems. Some need to have cardiac and EIC testing.
As I said, go to a reputable breeder that does OFA certs on hips/elbows, has OFA cardiac testing, CERF for PRA, and EIC testing to ensure you get a healthy puppy.
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April 2nd, 2010 at 2:00 pm
All dogs have Health issue. Run if a breeder says there completely healthy as it not possible
My major concerns would be:
Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Flat Coated Retrievers MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored — which they usually express by barking and destructive chewing. Bored Flat-Coats can make a shambles of your house and yard.
If you simply want a pet for your family, and don’t have the time or inclination to take your dog running or hiking or biking or swimming, or to get involved in hunting, or agility (obstacle course), or advanced obedience, or tracking, or a similar canine activity, I do not recommend this breed. Trying to suppress their "hardwired" drive to run and work, without providing alternate outlets for their high energy level, can be difficult.
Bounciness. Young Flat Coated Retrievers (up to about three years old) romp and jump with great vigor, and things can go flying, including people.
If you have small children, or if you or anyone who lives with you is elderly or infirm, I do not recommend Flat Coated Retriever puppies. The temptation to play roughly is simply too great with many young Flat-Coats. WRONG-THEY NEED TRAINNING TO NOT BE SO BOUNCY, AND FLAT COATED RETRIEVER ARE GREAT WITH SMALL KIDS
Separation anxiety. More than most other breeds, Flat-Coated Retrievers need a great deal of companionship and do not like being left alone for more than a few hours. They tend to express their unhappiness through destructive chewing and barking. If you work all day, this is not the breed for you.
Grooming. To keep their feathered coat free of mats, Flat Coated Retrievers require regular brushing and combing, and occasional trimming.
Shedding. Flat Coated Retrievers shed quite a bit. Their dark hairs come off on your hands when you pet them, stick tenaciously to your clothing, upholstery, and carpeting, and hide under the furniture. Be prepared for vacuuming.
Serious health problems. All retriever breeds are susceptible to joint and bone problems, and eye diseases. Even worse, an alarming number of Flat-Coated Retrievers are dying of cancer at an early age. Their lifespan is less than for similar-sized dogs.
References :
http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/flatcoatedretrievers.html