The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds with sturdy and medium sized dogs. These dogs make excellent companions and are good at obedience training too.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Scotland
Used for: Companion, hunting and tracking, obedience training
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: Cream to rich golden
Coat: Water-resistant, firm, straight or wavy
Average Height: 22-24 inches
Average Weight: 60-80 pounds
Group: Gun dog, AKC sporting
History and Domestication
The Golden Retriever was developed by Lord Tweedmouth in late 1800s in the Scottish highlands by crossing the original yellow flat-coated Retriever with the Tweed Water spaniel which is now extinct. The developed breed was further crossed with the Irish setter, the bloodhound and Tweed Water spaniel. These dogs were known as the Flat-Coats and later by the name Golden Retriever. This is now one of the most popular breeds not just because it is an excellent companion but also because these dogs are good at hunting and tracking, obedience and as guide dogs.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This is a medium-large sized, sturdy dog. Golden Retrievers have a broad skull with a straight muzzle which tapers slightly with a well-pronounced stop. The nose can be brownish black or just black. The dark brown eyes are medium in size. Ears are relatively short and hang close to the cheeks. The tail has feathering along the underside and is thicker at the base.
Care, Grooming and Health
The Golden Retriever has a smooth and medium-haired double coat which is quite easy to groom. Their coat must be brushed and combed once a week with a firm bristle brush. The dense undercoat requires special attention. Bathe only when necessary and dry shampoo. The breed sheds moderately.
This breed needs to be taken on long daily brisk walks. They will also love to accompany you on a jog or happily run alongside your bicycle. Make sure you provide them with enough exercise to avoid hyperactivity.
Some lines are prone to mast cell tumors and cancer. Golden Retrievers are also prone to hip dysplasia, heart problems, eye defects and various skin allergies. Do not overfeed as they gain weight very easily.
Living Conditions
This breed will be okay in an apartment if you provide them with enough exercise. These dogs are only moderately active indoors and a medium-sized yard will be required.
Temperament
Golden Retrievers are intelligent, well-mannered and lovable dogs with a charming temperament. They can be trained easily and are always gentle and patient with children. These are popular companion and family pets due to their charming, devoted and self-assured nature. These dogs are energetic and loving and will do anything to please their masters; hence training them is quite easy. This breed is friendly with other dogs and pets and has very little or no guarding instinct. Though they do not attack, but they still make good watchdogs as they bark loudly when a stranger approaches.
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