Golden Retrievers: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Golden Retriever breed

The Golden Retriever!

The Golden Retriever is a breed that was developed in Scotland and England. It is a relatively modern breed as it evolved only during the later part of the 19th century. Its original ancestors are believed to be a Tweed Water Spaniel and a yellow-colored dog. Affectionately known as the Golden or the Yellow Retriever, it has a dense waxy coat that is waterproof, drooping ears of medium length and a straight tail. Its body is a bit longer than tall with a rear that is well angulated. The Golden Retriever is physically strong and muscular with fluid movement. It has a normal canine structure with a broad head and a kindly expression.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
10-12 years

Energy Level:
Patient but excited.

Living Conditions:
Flexible; likes to run freely.

Barking:
Average..

Exercise Needs:
Daily walk. Likes to swim and hunt.

Breed Group:
Sporting

Size:
Medium-Large

Height:
21 to 24 inches

Weight:
55 to 75 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Golden of various shades

National breed club:
The Golden Retriever Club of America

Golden Retriever Skills

The Golden Retriever was originally developed as a retrieving dog to use while hunting wild fowl. It is an excellent hunter and famous for its scenting abilities. Its varied talents have been put to good use as guide dogs, show dogs, field dogs, obedience competitor, narcotic detection dogs, tracking dogs and even as models used in commercials and advertisements. It is a highly versatile and remarkable breed that is one of those preferred by veterinarians.

Golden Retriever Personality

Golden Retrievers are one of the most common family dogs due to the ease of handling them, their exceptional tolerance and the fact that it does not require very much from its owners. It possesses a pleasing personality which allows it to get along well with people and other dogs. It can be quite active and fun-loving but exhibits outmost patience when required to do so. Known for being an intelligent and affectionate breed, the Golden Retriever displays a natural flair for humor and nurturing which makes them great pets for young children.

Exercise Needs

Being an active and energetic sporting breed, Golden Retrievers require moderate regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Exercise routine may include daily walks, swims, hikes and free exercise.

Living Conditions

A Golden Retriever will definitely not be happy alone in a kennel due to its characteristic of being very people-oriented. It is equally at home in both urban and rural setting but would prefer to have some water to go to as it loves getting wet.

Grooming Requirements

A Golden Retriever does not need extraordinary amount of grooming. Weekly brushing of their coat and monthly trimming of hair between the pads of the feet and around the ears as well as cutting of toenails would be sufficient in maintaining a healthy, good-looking Golden.

Health Issues

Some of the most common health issues concerning the Golden Retrievers are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart diseases. It is highly recommended that health screening tests on breeding stocks be done as hereditary health problems multiply as the breed becomes increasingly popular brought about by indiscriminate breeding. Owners must be very careful not to overfeed.

If you liked this dog…

...the Labrador Retriever is a natural alternative. Very similar in appearance except for the Golden Retriever’s luxuriant coat; the Labrador can certainly hold its own as a sturdy hunting dog.

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