Straight answers on kids, other dogs, first-time owners and apartments, from the American Kennel Club's own ratings of the Flat-Coated Retriever. We only answer where the rating is clear.
Yes. The AKC rates the Flat-Coated Retriever 5 out of 5 for being good with young children and 5 out of 5 for affection with family. Any dog still needs supervision around small children, and children need to learn how to treat a dog.
AKC rating: Good with young children 5/5 · Affectionate with family 5/5 · AKC Flat-Coated Retriever page
Generally yes. The AKC rates the Flat-Coated Retriever 5 out of 5 for getting along with other dogs. Early socialisation and careful introductions still matter.
AKC rating: Good with other dogs 5/5 · AKC Flat-Coated Retriever page
It is a good choice for many first-time owners. The AKC rates the Flat-Coated Retriever 5 out of 5 for trainability and 5 out of 5 for adaptability, so it tends to learn readily and cope with change. A puppy class still helps.
AKC rating: Trainability level 5/5 · Adaptability level 5/5 · AKC Flat-Coated Retriever page
It is a hard fit for most apartments. The AKC rates the Flat-Coated Retriever 5 out of 5 for energy and 3 out of 5 for barking. It does best with space, a yard or a very active owner.
AKC rating: Energy level 5/5 · Barking level 3/5 · AKC Flat-Coated Retriever page
Not answered here: shedding, barking — the AKC rating sits in the middle or doesn't match our own, so the honest answer is "it depends on the individual dog". Read the full Flat-Coated Retriever guide.
Which breeds suit kids, apartments, first-time owners →
Breed ratings describe the typical dog. Every dog is an individual, and upbringing, training and socialisation matter as much as breed. Scores from the American Kennel Club, last checked November 3, 2026.
