The Flat-Coated Retriever originates from 19th century England, where it was bred as a sporting dog to retrieve game birds during hunts.
Sporting Dogs
In the 1860s, breed founder Mr. T.W. Sturgis bred the first Flat-Coats from a mix of Lincolnshire and Norfolk retrievers along with setters and water spaniels.
Lundie and Lamb
Energetic and friendly with a love of water, the Flat-Coat was well-suited for retrieving waterfowl, making it popular among hunters.
Ideal for Hunting
By the early 20th century, the breed had gained fans as a friendly, playful family companion in addition to its hunting abilities.
Family Companions
World War I and II took a heavy toll on Flat-Coat numbers when many breeding lines were lost. Only a few dogs survived post-war.
Wartime Decline
In the 1950s, committed breeders worked to re-establish quality bloodlines and save the Flat-Coat from extinction.
Committed Breeders
Today, the intelligent and active Flat-Coated Retriever enjoys newfound popularity as both a working retriever and family dog.
Modern Resurgence