Best In Show 2022: Baxor The Flatcoated Retriever

A stunning Flatcoated Retriever named Baxer was yesterday crowned Crufts Best In Show champion 2022. His proud owner, Patrick O'Ware, said "It's really a dream come true! Baxer never lets me down, he's always happy and energetic. He’s a fantastic dog! I don’t have any words, it’s just amazing, and I’m really proud of him. He’s a true credit to his breed."

So, what makes the flatcoated retriever such a special breed?

The Flatcoated Retriever

The Flat Coated Retriever is similar in appearance to the Golden Retriever. They share similar size and shape but are only seen in black or liver colours. Their coat's relatively easy to maintain with simple daily brushing.

This confident and kind breed has a superb temperament which makes them ideal family dogs. Their high energy levels can make them a little too boisterous when it comes to very small children or the very elderly though.

These high energy levels also mean they can easily cope with a couple of long walks every day so they're best suited to owners with active lifestyles. The breed is very easy to train and are natural people pleasers. They'll work hard to impress their owners.

Is The Flatcoated Retriever The New Fashionable Breed?

Preloved's seen searches for Flatcoated Retrievers increase by an astonishing 35,000% since Baxor's win. We see similar trends every year following the Crufts event. These trends in particular breeds often lead to new owners being ill-prepared and not fully understanding the needs of the dog. This can sometimes lead to an increase in surrendering of 'fashionable breeds' to shelters 12 months down the line.

Preloved would always recommend that potential owners of any dog first speak with local shelters if they're interested in a particular breed. They'll be able to determine if the breed is a good fit for your lifestyle. If they don't have any in their charge, they're best suited to point you in the right direction for further support.

For more information on this breed, take a look at Flatcoated Retriever Society. They have plenty of advice for potential owners, as well as a Rehoming and Welfare Scheme.

Here at Preloved, we believe EVERY dog is the Best In Show and, EVERY dog is capable of the unconditional love that owners seek, and are worthy of the unconditional love an owner can provide - whether they're a pedigree or not.

Cover Image: Molly Darlington | Reuters