Selecting A Family Pet - The Golden Retriever

Picking out the right dog for you and your family is an important decision. There are several hundred breeds of dogs from around the globe so your choices are virtually limitless. So long before you buy dog leashes, a dog bed or a deshedding tool you should take your time to make sure you know which breed is right for you and your family. The article that follows will discuss the Golden Retriever breed as a great dog to have in your household.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) lists the Golden Retriever breed as part of the Sporting Group of canines. Golden Retrievers were first accepted for registration by The Kennel Club of England in 1903 and listed as a true breed by them in 1911.

The Sporting Group classification is made up of some of the oldest and most popular breeds. Many of the dogs in this defined collection were bred for hunting birds and small game although most individuals who own sporting dogs nowadays only keep them as family pets, instead of hunters. The hunting traits, however, create some of the most enjoyable aspects of owning one of these dogs. Golden Retrievers are natural retrievers, so you can enjoy them fetching a tennis ball until you or the dog ties out. Another outstanding trait they have is their outgoing personality, making sporting dogs responsive and enthusiastic partners.

The Golden Retriever was bred to be tough and strong. Don't let the happy, silly face fool you. While any Golden will be happy happily dozing around the house or playing on the floor with your family, the breed is extremely adept in the field. Your friend has been employed in a number of roles including search and rescue as well as illegal drug detection.

As puppies, these dogs are full of energy and love to chew to work out anxiety and boredom. Make sure you focus your new puppy's need to chew to appropriate chew toys. Remember, puppies aren't fussy and don't discriminate. A table leg works as well for them as a rawhide chew toy. You will find your puppy to be very trainable with a admirable desire to please you.

The Golden Retriever is generally light yellow to deep golden honey in color. The coat tends to get a little deeper in color after the first year. They tend to be about two feet tall at the withers (shoulders), with females being slightly shorter. Their coat should be long and either wavy or flat. Golden Retrievers need to be brushed properly with a good deshedding tool or their coat will form thick mats.

So, if you are in the market for a loyal companion that will be great with kids or adults, you should definitely find a local breeder and spend some time getting to know the Golden Retriever.