 Goldens are known for their sweet temperament and their willingness to work with their owners. Anyone who has owned a Golden can attest to his or her eagerness, alertness, and self-confidence. The Golden is first of all a hunting dog and has been bred not only for retrieving and swimming, but is well-suited for therapy work and is the most common guide dog for the blind. The beginnings of the Golden Retriever breed are shrouded in controversy. Goldens are related to other retrievers, most notably flat-coated retrievers. The most likely origination theory traces the Golden back to 1870 England by way of Russia, and to the 1930's in the United States by way of Canada.
Sturdily built and tireless, a well-bred Golden who is obedience-trained is a joy to live with.
| Interesting Breed Facts: |
| Popularity: |
4th in 2008; with 34,485 registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). |
| First recognized as a breed: |
Before 1912, all retrievers were lumped together in the same Kennel Club (English) grouping. The Golden was recognized as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club in the early 1930's. |
| AKC Grouping: |
Sporting. |
| Size: |
Height between 21" to 24" at the shoulder; weight ranges from 55 to 75 lbs.
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| Appearance: |
 According to the AKC breed standard, the Golden is sound and well put together with a broad, slightly arched skull, a straight muzzle, slightly wider at the top than at the tip. Ears are short and close to the cheek. The Golden's coat is dense and water-repellent, with a fluffy undercoat. Lustrous golden color of any shade is permissible. He has a nobility of expression rivaled by very few other breeds. |
| #1 preventable health problem: |
Skin disorders are the most frustrating for owners. Feed your Golden a nutritional dog food, use adequate flea prevention and give fatty acid supplements. |
| Preferences: |
Guarding, play, and the companionship of a human. |
| Best features: |
Willingness to please, noble countenance, playfulness, and ability to get along with children. |
| Biggest challenge to owners: |
A Golden may reach his adult height by 8 to 10 months of age, but he is far from mature. This dog is active, so regular exercise is imperative.
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PRODUCTS RELATED TO:
Breed Profile Articles
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