The Golden Retriever – A Noble Breed
Who doesn’t want to be better informed about the golden retriever breed? Known for their intelligence, kindness, friendliness, loyalty, and willingness to work, Goldens are a favorite breed of families. Their strong attributes make them excellent hunting dogs, guide and service dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Its distinctive golden coat gives the golden retriever a natural shine. This versatile breed is famous for its high energy and playfulness.
The golden retriever is a member of the sporting group. They are large, stocky dogs that stand between 20 and 24 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. The American Breed Standard calls for the coat to be any shade of gold, except for coats that are too dark or too light. British standards allow lighter shades of gold, known as cream colours. A red or mahogany ‘golden’ color is permitted under US standards, but not under British standards. American golds are typically taller and slimmer and have longer fur. British Hounds are stockier with shorter tails and legs.
Originally, the Labrador Retriever came from Newfoundland. Fishermen brought the breed to England around 1800. In the 1800s, golden retrievers were developed in Scotland on the highland estate of Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, later Baron Tweedmouth. Golden Retrievers were originally used as hunting dogs to retrieve game birds and waterfowl. They were bred to be excellent hunting dogs with waterproof coats, an excellent sense of smell, and soft mouths that do not harm game. The breed was first created by the golden retriever crossed with a now-extinct tweed water spaniel. The breed was later infused with black wavy-coated retrievers, Irish setters, bloodhounds, and the Newfoundland St. John’s Spaniel.
A legendary dog for its gentle and friendly manners, the golden retriever does not make a good guard dog; they are known for their affection to both their owners and strangers. This breed thrives on human company. Goldens are energetic and active dogs. Exercising every day is important for your health. Bred to retrieve ducks and other waterfowl, dorados love to swim. Active and large, this breed is not the ideal apartment dog. Although they are adaptable, a prospective owner should live near a park and be willing to spend a lot of time with their dog. Otherwise, dorados need sizable backyards to stay healthy. Known for their intelligence, these dogs enjoy learning tricks, playing games, retrieving and catching balls, and exercising with their owners. It is not uncommon for golds to win obedience and agility competitions. Energetic and devoted, this breed also makes an excellent working and service dog. With an excellent sense of smell, Dorados have been employed in alpine search and rescue, and as police dogs for drug detection. Very active, this breed may not be the best choice of dog for the elderly. However, golden retrievers are great with children and other pets, and they make wonderful family pets.
Golden Retrievers can generally expect to live between 10 and 15 years. Unfortunately, poor parenting for profit has led to a number of common health problems. The most common of these conditions is hip dysplasia. Cataracts is another common ailment. Cancer represents the leading cause of death for golds. To help avoid these health problems for your golden retriever, it’s important to know a dog’s pedigree and purchase dogs from a reputable breeder. Each dog must be examined by OFA or PennHIP. These evaluations involve x-rays to assess a dog for hip dysplasia and disease. Grooming (brushing) twice a week is recommended. They may not be a good choice for people with allergies due to shedding.
Golden Retrievers are an energetic and enthusiastic breed that love and crave the company of humans. These qualities coupled with a gentle and friendly nature make this dog wonderful for families and active individuals looking for a companion.