Do any of you have a flat coated retriever?

I just went on animal planet.com and took the pet match quiz, and that was my match 100%. it even said 100%,lol. So, I want to know a little about them. I might be getting a dog soon, and i need to know some options. So, i want to know:
(1)r they good dogs?
2. Do they shed alot?
3.how big do they get?
5. r they mean, or sweet?
6.how long did yours live?

and any other info that u want to give me, thanks!

LOVE HIM HE"S MY BABY BOY.

<---------- Top left on his back legs.

He's four sweet as can be and he does shed but his hair is so soft and cuddly!!!

Added:

He gets the most attention in the parades. He doesn't like it but he does it. My neighbor calls him cujo because if another animal does come through mommy he gets mean. He is my alpha but not dominant. He's like the daddy of the pack. Kind and loving when need be and stern when a foster is acting out of line. At bed time he will come up and lay his head on the mattress and wait for mommy to get settled and tell him he can come up.

They are often mistaken in shelters as newf and lab mixes. Its hard to tell when they are puppies. But since I have gotten him I have seen several but he's the prettiest one ever. Shiney as can be.

Adding more:

I am amazed no one else has a flat coat.

I read the other post of animal planet and its right on the mark too. He loves water as long as his feet touch. He will go in the wave pool with mommy but swims like a bandit without a life vest. Perfect family dog will bring me toys I squeak them he bouces I throw he goes and brings it back to mommy. This was natural he taught me to play fetch. Gorgeous as he runs more like a horse than a dog.

This website is really great! http://animal.discovery.com/breedselecto...