The Golden Retriever

The gorgeous Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dogs both in the USA and around the world .

Consistently in the top ten most popular dog breeds (holding the #3 spot on the AKC's popularity stakes since 2012), Goldens are loved by everyone who meets them!

Soft, fluffy, cuddly puppies grow up to be happy, laid-back dogs who never met a stranger they didn't like.

They're not guard dogs, they love people too much for that, but they are big dogs and will happily bark at strangers, just don't expect them to protect your valuables!

Originally bred as a hunting dog and 'retriever' of game in the Scottish Highlands, their ancestors were the original yellow Labrador Retriever , a now extinct breed called the Tweed Water Spaniel, and a little bit of Irish Setter (where the gorgeous red coat color comes from) and Bloodhound (information courtesy of the AKC).

This breed is beautiful to look at, intelligent and trainable, friendly and confident - what more could you ask?

Golden Retriever Stats

Country of Origin: Great Britain

Size: Medium

Height: 21.5 - 24 inches

Weight: 55 - 75 lbs

Color: Shades of gold, can vary from light cream to deep gold

Temperament: Sociable, even-tempered and fun-loving

Activity Level: Moderate to high

Grooming: Low to moderate. Daily brushing required.

Special Needs: This breed needs tons of exercise and playtimes. Regular brushing is necessary.

Possible Health Problems: Cataracts; ectropion (eyelid rolls outward), entropion (eyelid rolls inward), hip dysplasia, cancer, heart disease, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) You can visit http://www.animaleyecare.net/informational/general-disease-information.htm to learn more about eye problems and also visit my comprehensive Dog Eye Problems page.

More About The Golden Retriever

This is an affectionate, friendly, family oriented breed. An adorably 'goofy' dog that can be slow to mature. Although they're smart and pretty easy to train, your Golden puppy will need lots of exercise and regular obedience training.

A good selection of very sturdy chew toys is also highly recommended.

Being retrievers (who were bred to carry game in their mouths), they're tend to be a mouthy breed, and puppy biting and nipping will need to be firmly discouraged early on. Luckily these are good natured puppies who respond well to corrections.

Being working dogs at heart, pups from working bloodlines tend to be more active, highly-strung and even anxious than those from show or pet bloodlines. If you want a hunting buddy, choose a pup from field or working lines, but if you just want a big, relaxed dog to share the sofa with you will be better off with a pup from show or pet parents.

A dog with too much 'drive' for his environment can become anxious, neurotic and even destructive, so do choose your puppy wisely to make sure everyone is happy.

One of the 'down sides' of owning a Golden, is that you're likely to find hair all over the place - literally. So, if you're very house-proud and/or object to wearing a golden 'fur coat' yourself, this may not be the ideal breed for you.

Also, people with allergies should avoid this breed and I'd recommend checking out hypoallergenic dogs or hairless dog breeds instead.

Regular brushing and grooming is definitely required to control shedding. A daily brushing and combing can really help to keep the loose hair in your home within manageable limits.

Also, for a more in-depth look at this breed, you can take a look at this great website.... All About Goldens

you might also like...