Facts on Golden Retrievers

The Golden Retriever originated from the Scottish Highlands in the 1800s. The breed was developed from a mixture of varieties of retriever, spaniel and bloodhound. This is a versatile dog with many natural abilities. These include hunting and retrieving game, agility classes, obedience competitions and narcotics detection. Retrievers have also been trained successfully as seeing eye dogs for the blind and as helpers for the disabled. They also love water and swimming.

  1. Appearance

    • Robust, medium-sized dogs, Golden Retrievers have a distinctive appearance. However they can sometimes be confused with Golden Labradors due to their fairly similar looks. Golden Retrievers stand at around 23- to 25-inches tall at the shoulder, and weigh between 65 and 75 lbs. Females are generally slightly smaller than this. They have a water-repellent medium-length double coat of smooth hair, which can be either wavy or straight. It is usually a golden color, but can range from light cream to deep amber.

    Temperament

    • The temperament of this breed is one of the reasons they are such popular family dogs. Golden Retrievers are lovable, patient and affectionate dogs which are great with children. They are also very intelligent and eager to please, meaning they are easily trained and obedient. These dogs are friendly towards everyone they meet including other dogs, as they have little or no guarding instinct. They benefit from a strong and confident owner who will ensure they remain dominant and pack leader in the dog's eyes. Their hunting and retrieving instincts mean they like to play and fetch balls or other toys.

    Health

    • Purebred Golden Retrievers are prone to a number of genetic issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions and eye problems. Research has shown cancer to be the most common cause of death for this breed. They can also suffer quite badly from skin allergies which may need veterinary care. Golden Retrievers gain weight easily, so they must not be overfed.

    More Facts

    • Although this breed is very active and energetic, it can adapt to most living arrangements including apartments, providing it gets daily exercise. If the owner likes to run or cycle, the ideal thing would be to allow the dog to jog alongside, as this kind of brisk exercise is perfect for them. If a Golden Retriever is not kept occupied, both mentally and physically, it will easily become bored, and possibly destructive and hyperactive. The life expectancy of this breed is around 10 to 12 years.