Makes a good family dog as well as a good flushing or waterfowling dog, not to mention other activities. The FCR, as it is known among enthusiasts, takes well to obedience training and will usually do its best to try and cooperate with its handler. Problems with cancer and the thyroid also occur, these problems should all be discussed with the breeder before purchasing a pup. Has not been nearly as successful as the Labrador in retriever competitions, which has limited its popularity. This is a nice breed, but it still needs plenty of exercise, attention, and training to keep it under control.
Some individuals eat their own feces.
Yellow FCRs should never be used for breeding, as this color is rare as is considered a fault.