Origins & Development (19th Century)

• Purpose: Created for hunters to retrieve downed birds from both land and water as bird shooting became more popular.

• Ancestry: A mix of Retrievers, Setters, Spaniels, Pointers, and possibly Collie-types, with roots possibly tracing back to North American water dogs (like the St. John's Water Dog).

• Key Figure: S.E. Shirley, founder of the UK Kennel Club, was instrumental in developing and stabilizing the breed type around the 1860s-1880s. 

Golden Age & Decline (Late 19th - Early 20th Century)

• Popularity: By the late 1800s, it was Britain's most popular retriever, excelling in both field trials and shows.

• WWI Impact: Many Flat-Coats served as messengers and rescue dogs, but breeding programs suffered, reducing numbers.

• Rise of Others: The Labrador and Golden Retrievers, bred partly from Flat-Coats, grew rapidly in popularity, eclipsing the Flat-Coat. 

Near Extinction & Revival (Mid-20th Century) 

• Post-WWII: The breed faced near extinction, with very few remaining.

• Preservation: Dedicated UK breeders worked to save the breed from disappearing. 

Modern Era

• Nickname: Known as the "Peter Pan of Retrievers" for its youthful, playful nature.

• Current Role: While still a capable gundog, it's now primarily a beloved companion and show dog, valued for its intelligence and eager-to-please attitude.