Flatcoats are fun!
Bred for both hunting and the home, flat-coated retrievers are energetic, intelligent and playful dogs that excel in many formal dog events as well as being some of the best backyard playmates and hiking companions imaginable.
The cool and occasionally damp pacific northwest weather is well-suited to flatcoats. Even the hot summer days are good for flatcoats when they can indulge their obsession with water. The national forests in the Cascade, Olympic and Western Rocky Mountains as well as the state and local parks bordering the extensive saltwater and freshwater waterways and lakes make the northwest a flatcoat paradise even for those who do not live on acreage. City flatcoats in the northwest also have wonderful play opportunities in the varied off-leash dog parks and urban facilities.
Some useful resources for fun with flatcoats (or any other breed) in the Northwest:
- Trailkeepers of Oregon: Oregon Hikers Field Guide
- Washington Trails Association: website facebook
- Explorer Dog Washington Day Hikes
Off Leash Parks:
- Citizens for Off-Leash Areas
- Portland Parks and Recreation Dogs & Off-Leash Program
- Seattle Parks & Recreation Off-Leash Areas
- Vancouver BC Dog Off-Leash Areas
Be water wise! In addition to avoiding water tainted with pollutants, northwest dog owners should be aware that potentially dangerous algal blooms can occur in fresh or salt water at any time of the year. Some blue-green algae blooms produce lethal levels of liver and neurotoxins that can kill dogs and humans. Some deaths reportedly occurred after dogs licked algae from their fur after wading/swimming in blue-green algae blooms. Watch for posted notices and check water monitoring websites for current information: