Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

The Golden Retriever is a member of the Gundog and Sporting Group.

Weight:

Male: 65-75 lb.; female: 55-65 lb.

Height:

Male: 23-24 inches; female: 21.5 – 22.5 inches at the withers.

Color(s):

The coat is various shades of gold. English goldens wear a light cream-color. Americans wear a darker shade of gold.

Coat:

The Golden Retriever’s straight or wavy coat is dense, waterproof and lustrous. The undercoat is dense. The outer coat lies close to the body and is firm and resilient. This breed sheds a thick winter coat.

Overview

Character:

This athletic breed is strong and playful. With an affectionate nature, the Golden Retriever can befriend other dogs, pets and strangers.

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom

History:

In the 1800s, Lord Tweedmouth of Scotland bred a yellow Wavy-Coated Retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel. Other breeds such as a black Retriever, Tweed Spaniel, Setters and a Bloodhound also contributed to the lineage. This breed functioned as a retriever and upland bird dog. Later in the U.S. this breed became very popular.

Name:

Also known as Yellow Retriever. Nicknames include Golden, Yellow Retriever, and Goldie.

Temperament:

This trustworthy breed is devoted and obedient. While hard to control as puppies, this breed matures as an active, playful companion. The Golden Retriever tolerates harsh working conditions. Some dogs sit patiently for hours in a hunting blind. This breed enjoys playing in cool water.

Care:

Training:

The well-bred Golden Retriever can be a good learner, eager to please. Obedience lessons are highly recommended. When well-trained, this dog is calm indoors. Training can make this breed fit as a guide dog, therapy dog or service dog for the disabled. This breed also helps immensely in search and rescue and narcotics detection.

Activity:

The Golden Retriever requires daily physical and mental exercise. This breed loves a day in the field, perhaps retrieving and carrying objects in its mouth. A play stick, ball or flying disc is a great interaction toy.

Ownership:

As a social dog, the Golden Retriever is a charming family companion. With daily exercise outdoors, this breed needs to live indoors with human interaction. Never isolate or leave this pet alone for hours. This dog needs a medium to large yard. Although not meant as a guard dog, it has some watchdog abilities, such as being alert to strangers. Ensure a balanced diet. Be aware that this dog requires high maintenance. Many health problems can translate into expensive vet bills. This dog is prone to obesity. Owners who fail to take care of their dogs contribute to the tragic abandonment of this breed.

Breeders:

No breeders listed at this time.

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