How to Care for a Flat-Coated Retriever

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Take your flat coated retriever to the veterinarian immediately after purchasing or adopting. If using a breeder, make sure he is reputable. Your puppy must be checked for basic health and tested for disease.
Step 2:
Feed your dog a quality puppy and dog food. Retrievers must be carefully monitored as they grow to prevent common problems such as hip dysplasia. Purchase high quality foods engineered with the proper balance of proteins and fats.
Step 3:
Keep your flat coated retriever's nails trimmed and ears and teeth cleaned. Do this yourself or take him to a groomer. Usually, once a month grooming is adequate. Purchase treats designed to keep your dog's breath and teeth clean and fresh.
Step 4:
Brush the dog's coat once a week with a bristle brush. Flat coated retrievers require little coat care. Only bathe your dog when necessary to avoid drying out his skin and coat. The natural oils keep it looking shiny and beautiful.
Step 5:
Exercise your dog daily. Bored and under-exercised flat coated retrievers quickly develop bad habits like digging or chewing. Begin training with your retriever when he's young. Retrievers are highly trainable and respond well to obedience work.
Step 6:
Visit your veterinarian annually for vaccination boosters. Give your dog a monthly flea and heartworm preventative year round.

More Puppy Pages

How to Care for an American Eskimo

Instructions Step 1: Take your American Eskimo for regular checkups including eye exams. Have your Eskie’s teeth cleaned professionally; usually once or twice a year is sufficient. Check with a vet or teeth-cleaning professional for a recommended...

Instructions Things You’ll Need: Blending shears Slicker brush Scissors Step 1: Remove stray hairs from the face and tail using blending shears. The dog;s coat should have a smooth appearance. The dense, soft coat has a high luster and should lie...

How to Choose a Golden Retriever for Breeding

Instructions Step 1: Find a reputable golden retriever breeder. Ensure the breeder is serious about promoting the breed, provides a clean and healthy environment for her dogs, and provides good references from other dog buyers. Ask if the breeder shows...

How to Care for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Instructions Things You’ll Need: High protein dog food Tennis balls for playing fetch Dog comb and brush Dry shampoo Step 1: Ask for a health certificate from your breeder. Both bitches and dogs should have their eyes tested yearly and should have...

Instructions Step 1: Spay your female poodle before the first heat to prevent breast cancer and uterine infections. Neutering your male poodle will prevent testicular cancer, help maintain a healthy prostate and curb aggression. Step 2: Take your poodle...