Training a Flat-Coated Retriever: what works and what to expect
How the Flat-Coated Retriever learns, common training challenges and what motivates it.
Flatcoats are eager to please and learn quickly, but they are also easily distracted and very social. Positive methods using food, toys and play work best. Keep sessions lively and short, and build focus gradually in places with increasing distraction.
Common challenges are jumping up, pulling on the lead, stealing items and an unreliable recall when there is something exciting nearby. Start recall training early with high-value rewards and a long line. Give your dog legitimate things to carry, since the retrieving instinct is strong and many Flatcoats love to greet you with something in their mouth.
Flat-Coated Retriever training in numbers
Easy to train
Barking
5 means very vocal
Copes with alone time
Open with strangers
Good with other dogs
Good with children