by Tammy L Mahan

Created on: December 29, 2008

The Golden Retriever dog breed originated in Scotland. The breed is the result of the cross breeding of a yellow retriever and a Tweed Water Spaniel.

This breed was registered by the Kennel Club of England in 1903 and in 1908 made their first appearance in a dog show.

Physical Appearance

The Golden Retriever is a study and well proportioned dog. The average male weighs between 60 and 80 pounds and his height varies from 23 to 26 inches. The average female weighs between 55 to 70 pounds and her height varies from 20 to 24 inches.

The head of this magnificent breed is broad and they possess a wide and powerful snout. The neck and thighs of this breed are muscular and the chest is wide. The nose of the Golden Retriever is black and their ears are medium sized. Their eyes are brown and the dark rim around their eyes makes them seem very gentle and friendly.

The Golden Retriever has a long and feathered coat and the outer coat is waterproof and may be dense or wavy. The color of the coat varies from cream to a deep golden. The coat of puppies darkens or lightens as they grow but generally the coat of puppies is lighter than their adult coat.

Social Behavior

The Golden Retriever is a kind, gentle and friendly dog and makes a great pet for both adults and children. This breed is also compatible with other animals and most livestock. Golden Retrievers are often used as guide dogs because of their ability to learn, eagerness of please and mainly because they stay calm in any given situation.

Although Golden retrievers are friendly, they do make excellent guard dogs and alert their owner of any strange objects or new people. Golden retrievers love playing and as their name suggests they love retrieving objects.They enjoy daily walks and need a good amount of exercise to maintain good health.

Reproduction

A female Golden Retriever can deliver three to six puppies in every litter and may require help during whelping. The new born Golden retriever puppies open their eyes at ten days old but this may vary by a day or two. Golden retriever puppies like any other breed require additional human care during their first month of life.

The average lifespan for this breed is ten to twelve years. They are at risk for several types of cancer as well as elbow and hip dislocations, joint problems and allergies just to name a few. The Golden Retriever is a breed that requires regular vet visits to ensure that a good quality of life is maintained.

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