Grooming the Flat-Coated Retriever
COAT: The Coat is of moderate length, density and fullness, with a high luster. The ideal coat is straight and flat lying. A slight waviness is permissible but the coat is not curly, wooly, short, silky or fluffy. The Flat-Coat is a working retriever and the coat must provide protection from all types of weather, water and ground cover. This requires a coat of sufficient texture, length and fullness to allow for adequate insulation. When the dog is in full coat the ears, front, chest, back of forelegs, thighs and underside of tail are thickly feathered without being bushy, stringy or silky. Mane of longer heavier coat on the neck extending over the withers and shoulders is considered typical, especially in the male dog, and can cause the neck to appear thicker and the withers higher, sometimes causing the appearance of a dip behind the withers. Since the Flat-Coat is a hunting retriever, the feathering is not excessively long.
CHARACTER: 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.
RECOMMENDED CINDRA PRODUCTS:
Reconstructor - Conditioner
| Problem | Solution |
| Detangling/Dematting | Apply full strength Moisture Plus liberally to the mat. Wait 15 minutes. Pull mat gently apart with fingers or comb. |
| Dry, Damaged Coat | Our version of a hot oil treatment: Wet dog with warm water, apply Moisture Plus liberally. Wrap in hot towel for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo with Moisturizing Shampoo and rinse. |
| Greasy Coat | Use Cleansing Shampoo instead of Moisturizing Shampoo. |
| Coat lacks Body | Use Texturizing Shampoo instead of Moisturizing Shampoo |
| Flyaway Hair | Make an anti-static spray with 2 Tablespoons Moisture Plus in 1-pint water. |
| Thin Leg Furnishings/Feathers | Spray diluted Texturizing Mist into a damp coat and fluff dry with a blow dryer. |