Flat-Coated Retrievers and Labrador retrievers look very similar and both may have a black coat. A Flat-Coated Retriever has a longer coat. Flat-Coated Retrievers may also have a liver-colored coat while Labrador Retrievers may have a chocolate or yellow coat. Both breeds are heavy shedders. Labrador Retrievers and Flat-Coated Retrievers are both good family dogs who love swimming.