One of the most popular breeds in America is the Golden Retriever. This lovable goof-of-a-dog is known for an exuberant attitude and gorgeous golden coat. With the right owner, this dog is easily trained and perfect for family life. Hailing from the Scottish highlands, the Golden Retriever has a well documented, if brief, history.
Physical Description
Golden Retrievers have a recognizable flowing cream to dark golden coat. A medium sized hunting breed, this dog has a dual layered coat for warmth. Their coat is also water repellent. Good thing too, since they love to swim. The sturdy face and tapering muzzle is capable of the most adorable faces, often appearing in a wide-open grin that is characteristic to the breed.
Temperament
The often goofy antics of this lovable dog disguise are a trademark of the breed. They are intelligent and devoted to a firm handed master. They need guidance and training to realize their full potential in life. When improperly trained or exercised, this breed could exhibit destructive behavior or high strung antics. Daily mental and physical exercise will keep a Golden Retriever happy and focused. They adapt well to many environments and love children. They are not often aggressive so they do not make good guard dogs, but they do loudly announce the arrival of friend or foe. This alarm system will never run out of batteries.
History
The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish highlands. Lord Tweedmouth began breeding them in the late 1800’s. He was searching for a hunting dog that would brave cold water with strong swimming, manage to brush through undergrowth, and be able to retrieve gently. The first litter was a cross between a yellow wavy-coated retriever named Nous and a Tweed water spaniel named Belle. The four puppies were excellent upland bird dogs. The breed was not complete until black retrievers, setters and a bloodhound added to the mix. Lord Tweedmouth’s sons brought these dogs to America around 1912. The AKC (American Kennel Club) took 15 years to recognize the Golden Retriever as a separate breed.
Any owner of a Golden Retriever will praise the dog’s personality at every turn. With their loving attitudes, playful exuberance and striking beauty, the Golden Retriever is sure to win over everyone they meet.
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