Flat-Coated Retrievers are said to be a combination of the Spaniel, Collie and Newfoundland bloodlines. In the 19th century, they were bred in England and were retrievers by choice before the Labrador were bred. Earlier, they were considered the gundogs for land hunting. They are very versatile as hunting dogs. They were developed to be a dual purpose retriever. They are very skilled in being retrievers at land as well as from water also. This breed is also considered as the "Peter Pan? of retrievers due to the fact that they do not seem to mature but behave and remain playful like puppies.

The trained Flat-Coated ones are very friendly, optimistic, loving, tolerant and enthusiastic animals. They make great pets and companions. They bond equally well with each member of the family and remain loyal and devoted to all. They are not partial to anyone. Hence, they need to get both socialization training as well as obedience training at the earliest in order to be good pets. Inside the house, they are calm and quiet while outside they show abundance energy during playing, running and fetching. This breed needs company and something to excite or simulate them to remain busy or else they can become hyperactive, and destructive when left all alone for some time. Although, they behave well with children; they are not preferred to be left with small kids due to their never ending energy as they might unintentionally injure, topple or kick them.

Flat-Coated Retrievers coat is shiny, thick, flowing of medium length and needs to be kept straight and flat when combed. Its color is of rich brown color or of liver color. They lack an undercoat. Their height varies from twenty-three inches to a maximum of twenty-five inches. Their weight varies from fifty-five pounds to a maximum of seventy-five pounds. They require a rich diet of vitamins and minerals equivalent to five cups of dog food (dry). Meat of good quality suits them best and needs vary from one and half cans to two and half cans.

Flat-Coated Retrievers are so energetic and active that they are prone to boredom and become restless. Moreover, they can become obstinate and troublesome if bored. Therefore, they require a variety of exciting and fun loving training sessions. Hence, the trainer has to be innovative, and fun-loving. Besides, he/she needs to have short exciting sessions and change sessions to keep the interest up. The trainer also needs to adopt a positive approach and cannot afford to be stern in correcting their behavior which is not tolerated by this breed. They tend to become unruly, if any stern action or correction is handed out to them. They learn best in an understanding, caring and loving environment.

Flat-Coated Retrievers seem to be a happy and optimistic lot as their tail is constantly wagging and it makes you smile too. They are adjustable and accommodating once their territory is established, they can live together with cats, small pets, dogs, strangers and can be introduced to new people and animals easily.