Dog Breeds

Golden Retriever

Published

3 years ago

October 21, 2021

The Golden Retriever is a breed of dog that originated in Scotland.

Golden Retriever History

One of the most friendly dogs, the Golden Retriever is the result of a Scotsman’s attempt to breed the perfect retriever. In 1865, Lord Tweedenham took a yellow puppy with a ruffled coat named Nous to his estate in Inverness. For over twenty years he has bred with the yellow puppies of Cowslip, the daughter of Nous and her offspring. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the Golden Retriever was very popular, thanks to its excellent qualities. American hunters were also impressed by this strong, intelligent retriever, and used it to hunt the abundance of game in their country’s swamps.

Although hunting has been abolished as a sport, the Golden Retriever is more popular than ever because its friendliness, aptitude for companionship and obedience make it the perfect family dog. Even President Gerald Ford had a Golden Retriever named Liberty. One day the president was taking his dog out for a walk early in the morning when they were locked out. Liberty was pregnant with nine puppies at the time. One of the puppies from a White House litter has become a guide dog. The President’s ownership of a Golden Retriever made this breed even more popular in the United States, quickly becoming one of the top ten breeds registered with the American Kennel Club.

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years

Weight: 25 – 34 kg

Height at the withers: 51 – 61 cm

Character

It’s no wonder, of course, that the Golden Retriever has maintained its popularity. The dogs of this breed have a temperament that anyone would wish for his dog, or even his friend. This dog is loyal, lovable, playful, active and has a desire to please his loved ones. Also as a working dog, the Golden Retriever is not surpassed by any other breed. Due to its innate qualities such as intelligence and the ability to learn, the Golden Retriever is easy to train.

These dogs excel as guide dogs (for both the blind and the deaf). They are also used as drug dogs or as assistance dogs in search and rescue operations. According to the AKC, aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people in ordinary situations, or an unwelcome display of anxiety or nervousness is not in keeping with the Golden Retriever’s character. The Golden Retriever makes a fantastic family dog, especially because he does so well with children. But due to his gentle nature, he is less suitable as a guard dog. Although he does bark loudly when he sees strangers, the Golden Retriever will be quick friends even with a burglar.

Health of the Golden Retriever

Health problems common to this breed include skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital eye problems.

Care

This medium-sized dog has an average life expectancy of 12 years. This dog sheds moderately and is easy to maintain. Although this dog does not require frequent baths, the coat should be cleaned regularly with a firm bristle brush. The Golden Retriever is just as fond of retrieving balls and sticks as it is retrieving pheasants, poultry or other prey. Thanks to the Retriever pedigree, it is easy to keep this dog moving. Keep in mind that this dog needs exercise and it is good to take this dog for a long walk.

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