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Golden Retrievers became a recognized breed in 1912. However, the breeding that led to the Golden started in the mid-1800's when Lord Tweedmouth crossed a yellow-wavy coated retriever with a Tweed water spaniel. He was trying to create a retriever dog that could push through thick brush, swim strongly and handle cold water, and retrieve gently. Through subsequent cross-breeding between black retrievers, setters, and even bloodhounds, a new breed emerged; what we now call the Golden Retriever. The AKC did not register them as a separate breed, however, until 1927.

The Golden Retriever is an excellent family dog. He loves attention and is great with children, other animals, and strangers. A devoted, obedient dog, he will do anything to please his owner. He is also very energetic and even though he is easily excitable, he is also an extremely intelligent dog and learns quickly.

To keep a golden happy, it needs constant physical and especially mental exercise. Due to it's retrieving nature, playing fetch or frisbee with this dog would keep him very happy. Other ways to exercise his mind are to give him challenging lessons in obedience or playing very active games with him. Another must for this dog is human interaction. The Golden Retriever is a very social dog and needs lots of love and attention. In return, he'll be your best friend for life.

Some major health concerns for this breed include coronary heart disease, which is a narrowing of the coronary arteries that supply the heart with blood and oxygen. This can be caused by the arteries narrowing or by fat that clogs them. Other major concerns are hip dysplasia and cataracts. Minor health concerns include cataracts and allergies, among a few other things.

Assuming that a Golden Retriever has a clean bill of health, they usually live for 10-13 years. This is due to the fact that they are a larger breed, usually about 23-24 inches and 65-75 lbs for a male; 21.5-22.5 inches and 55-65 lbs for a female.

If you're ever looking for a good companion or family dog, the Golden Retriever would be your best bet. Their pleasant, loving nature is perfect for families of all sorts. Even if it's just you and him, rest assured he will never leave your side.

Bibliography

"Golden Retriever." Dog Breed Directory. Animal Planet. 24 July 2007.

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