by Alexa Steele

Created on: April 27, 2009   Last Updated: July 07, 2009

There is a reason why the Golden Retriever has long stood amongst most popular breeds of dog in America. His playful, intelligent, obedient, and hard working nature make the Golden Retriever the epitome of man's best friend.

History

On the border of Scotland in 1868, Lord Tweedmouth founded the Golden Retriever breed when he bred a yellow retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel. Tweedmouth's goal was to breed a hunting dog well suited Scotland's climate and terrain. He wanted dogs that could push through heavy vegetation, brave cold water and swim strongly, while gently retrieving waterfowl or other game. In order to refine his dogs' bloodline, and improve their performance Tweedmouth crossbred his yellow dogs with black retrievers, an Irish Setter and a Bloodhound.

The Golden Retriever was originally considered to be a variation of the Flat Coated Retriever. It would not be until 1925 that the American Kennel Club (AKC) would officially recognized Golden Retrievers as a separate breed.

Temperament

Ample energy makes this breed a perfect companion for active owners. Daily exercise is required to keep these dogs healthy and happy. They appreciate long walks, running alongside bikes or rollerblades, and going swimming. They are also fond of playing games like fetch that make use of their retrieving instincts.

The Golden Retriever's love of people and eagerness to please makes them not only terrific sporting dogs but ideal guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs for the unwell, and search and rescue dogs for the lost. As family pets, they generally get along well with children and other animals. Docile in nature, these dogs are rarely aggressive; however due to their size and energy level they can be intimidating to arriving houseguests so proper obedience training is required.

Size

Golden Retrievers are a medium to large breed with females ranging from 20 to 22 inches and weighing in at 55 to 65 pounds. Males, on the other hand, range from 23 to 24 inches and can weigh up to 75 pounds. Requiring plenty of room to run and play, the ideal environment for these dogs would include a large backyard or access to a nearby dog park. It is not advisable to keep Golden Retrievers in small apartments.

Maintenance

In terms of maintenance, the Golden Retriever needs regular grooming. Their fur consists of two separate coats. The long flowing outer coat is waterproof; whereas the fluffy undercoat keeps the dog warm. Brushing is recommended at least twice per week, and considerable shedding is to be expected with the changing of the seasons. Also, despite the fact that Golden Retrievers are generally a healthy breed, annual checkups at the vet are required. Their greatest health concern is a propensity to develop hip and elbow dysplasia.

In short, the Golden Retriever is a companion animal in the truest sense of the word. They live to love and love to live. However, special consideration should be given to their grooming and environmental needs. This breed is particularly compatible with active families and working jobs that put their energy and instincts to good use.

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