Golden Retriever

Origin:
A frequently restated account is that Golden Retrievers were first bred in Brighton, England by Sir Dudley Majorbanks from a troupe of eight Russian circus dogs. These performing canines traced their bloodline to Russian Trackers. Sir Dudley crossbred the original Goldens with Bloodhounds to scale down their large size. A more plausible account begins with Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness shire, Scotland, and tells of breeding Goldens from Tweed Water Spaniels, Newfoundlands, Irish Setters, and possibly Flat-coated Retrievers. Originally called Yellow Retrievers, Goldens were first presented in England in 1908, and were listed as Flat Coats (Golden). In 1911 they were recognized as a separate breed and the Golden Retriever Club of England was formed.

Aptitude:
This breed in the beginning was bred as a gundog and retriever. Its most common aptitude still consists of sporting events where it stands out in retriever trials. Nowadays, Goldens are comfortably suitable to all sorts of fieldwork, in addition to obedience trials. They are a useful all-around sporting dog, companion, therapy dog, and aid dog, and is sought after as a seeing-eye dog for the blind. Goldens are one of the best household pets.

Size:
Males weigh 65 to 75 pounds and stand 23 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) tall. Females weigh 55 to 65 pounds (25 to 29 kg) and stand 21 to 22.5 inches (51 to 56 cm) tall.

Coat:
Golden coats are dense, water-repellent, soft, wavy, and smooth. Feathering is seen on the back of the forelegs and the underbelly, with more accented feathering on the front of the neck and underside of the tail.

Colors:
Lustrous colors of cream and various shades of gold are common. Small groups of white hairs on the chest are sometimes seen.

Coat Care and Exercise:
A Golden's coat is easily cared for with weekly brushing and bathing when needed. Being a large, outdoor, sporting dog, it requires regular exercise, although it is quick to adapt to a family's lifestyle. It delights in swimming and walks when not being used in the field.

Mental Attitude:
A Golden's impeccable character is its most delightful characteristic. Even-tempered and gentle, this dog is also a strong, tough gundog. Its intelligence is well documented, and it is among the most affectionate and obedient companions. Eager to please, this dog's even, predictable temperament makes it an invaluable family pet. It is quite trainable, and one of the most desirable weekend dogs. It adapts well to other pets, and is a wonderful children's playmate.

Training:
Puppy training can begin as early as eight weeks, and should be continued throughout the dog's life. Easily trained, the Golden Retriever thrives on new challenges. It possesses a reliable memory, and rarely forgets anything it has learned. Many Golden Retrievers hold advanced title in obedience work, and they also excel in tracking.

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