Country/Date of Origin: Europe/1800s
The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in the 1800s by crossing several already established breeds, including the Irish Setter, Labrador, Water Dog and the St. John's Newfoundland, though one source also mentions the Collie. The breed was fairly popular until the beginning of the World War, but was then overshadowed by the Labrador and Golden Retriever.