Dog Breeds - Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever

ATTRIBUTES: Intelligent / Friendly / Doted

GROUP: Sporting Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Needs Lots Of Activity

BARKING LEVEL: Infrequent

COAT TYPE: Double

COAT LENGTH: Medium

SHADDING: Seasonal

SIZE: Large

TRAINABILITY: Eager To Please

CHARACTERISTIC: Smartest Breeds of Dog, Best Dog Breeds For Kids, Best Family Dogs

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of fondness a breed is expected to exhibit towards family members or familiar individuals. Certain breeds may appear distant with anyone except their owner, whereas other breeds extend their friendly disposition to everyone they are acquainted with treating them as their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The measure of a breed's tolerance and patience towards the behavior of children along with their overall family-friendly characteristics. It is necessary to closely supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall sociability of a breed towards other dogs. It is important to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with their canine counterparts. However, certain breeds inherently tend to be more compatible and amicable with other dogs both within the confines of their home and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that can be expected to be shed by the breed. Breeds that have high shedding tendencies will necessitate more frequent brushing are more likely to cause certain types of allergies and may require more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming or other forms of coat maintenance. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for this type of care while assessing the grooming effort required. Keep in mind that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool. If you highly value cleanliness it may be important to consider that certain dogs have the potential to leave strings of drool on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes. If this is a concern for you, it might be prudent to choose a breed that is less prone to excessive drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness a breed is expected to exhibit towards strangers. Certain breeds may display reserve or caution around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the setting, while other breeds will eagerly greet new humans whenever they encounter one.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed is likely to display towards play even beyond the puppyhood stage. Certain breeds will maintain their desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content with spending most of their time lounging on the couch and relaxing with you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers. Such breeds are more prone to reacting to potential threats, whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are also likely to become more receptive to strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed in handling changes. This encompasses adjustments to living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a breed to learn new things. Certain breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are motivated to make them proud, while others may exhibit a more independent nature preferring to do what they want, when they want and wherever they want.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The level of exercise and mental stimulation required by a breed. High-energy breeds are typically enthusiastic and ready for their next adventure, engaging in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more inclined to be relaxed and content with lounging around and snoozing.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalizations exhibited by a breed, including barks or howls. Certain breeds tend to bark at every passer-by or bird in the window, while others only bark in specific situations. It's worth noting that some barkless breeds may still be vocal and express themselves using other sounds or vocalizations.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of mental stimulation required by a breed to maintain their happiness and overall well-being. Purpose-bred dogs with jobs that entail decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities, typically need adequate mental exercise. Without sufficient mental stimulation, these dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the types of projects their owners would prefer.

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CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of fondness a breed is expected to exhibit towards family members or familiar individuals. Certain breeds may appear distant with anyone except their owner, whereas other breeds extend their friendly disposition to everyone they are acquainted with treating them as their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The measure of a breed's tolerance and patience towards the behavior of children along with their overall family-friendly characteristics. It is necessary to closely supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall sociability of a breed towards other dogs. It is important to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with their canine counterparts. However, certain breeds inherently tend to be more compatible and amicable with other dogs both within the confines of their home and in public settings.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair that can be expected to be shed by the breed. Breeds that have high shedding tendencies will necessitate more frequent brushing are more likely to cause certain types of allergies and may require more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming or other forms of coat maintenance. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for this type of care while assessing the grooming effort required. Keep in mind that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The tendency of a breed to drool. If you highly value cleanliness it may be important to consider that certain dogs have the potential to leave strings of drool on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes. If this is a concern for you, it might be prudent to choose a breed that is less prone to excessive drooling.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Medium
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
The level of friendliness a breed is expected to exhibit towards strangers. Certain breeds may display reserve or caution around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the setting, while other breeds will eagerly greet new humans whenever they encounter one.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
The level of enthusiasm a breed is likely to display towards play even beyond the puppyhood stage. Certain breeds will maintain their desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content with spending most of their time lounging on the couch and relaxing with you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers. Such breeds are more prone to reacting to potential threats, whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are also likely to become more receptive to strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed in handling changes. This encompasses adjustments to living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines and other variations in day-to-day life.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The ease of training and the willingness of a breed to learn new things. Certain breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are motivated to make them proud, while others may exhibit a more independent nature preferring to do what they want, when they want and wherever they want.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
The level of exercise and mental stimulation required by a breed. High-energy breeds are typically enthusiastic and ready for their next adventure, engaging in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more inclined to be relaxed and content with lounging around and snoozing.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Infrequent
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
The level of mental stimulation required by a breed to maintain their happiness and overall well-being. Purpose-bred dogs with jobs that entail decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities, typically need adequate mental exercise. Without sufficient mental stimulation, these dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the types of projects their owners would prefer.
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About The Breed

The Golden Retriever is an exuberant and beautiful breed that is highly popular in America. They excel in various working roles including hunting, field work, guiding the blind and search-and-rescue operations. Goldens also enjoy participating in obedience and competitive events. Outside of work, they have a love for life and exhibit a friendly and intelligent demeanor.

These medium-sized dogs are well-known for their sturdy and muscular build with a dense and lustrous golden coat. The breed features a broad head with friendly and intelligent eyes, short ears and a straight muzzle. When in motion, Goldens move gracefully with a powerful gait and their feathery tail is carried with a happy disposition.

The detailed lineage and development of the Golden Retriever can be traced back to the record books maintained by the gamekeepers at Lord Tweedmouth's estate in Scotland between 1835 and 1890. These records were published in Country Life in 1952 providing factual evidence to support the stories passed down through generations.

Golden Retrievers are known for their outgoing and trustworthy nature making them excellent family dogs. They are eager to please and relatively easy to train. With their joyous and playful attitude, they tend to maintain their puppy-like behavior well into adulthood. As energetic and powerful gundogs, they particularly enjoy outdoor activities and excel in swimming and fetching, fitting their natural instincts as retrievers.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Golden Retriever: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Indeed, Golden Retrievers are typically considered to be generally healthy dogs. Responsible breeders will prioritize the health of their breeding stock and conduct screenings for various health conditions. This may include checking for elbow and hip dysplasia, as well as evaluating the eyes for conditions like juvenile cataracts, pigmentary uveitis and progressive retinal atrophy. Additionally, certain heart diseases, such as subvalvular aortic stenosis may also be taken into consideration during the breeding process. Regular ear checks are essential for Golden Retrievers with a recommended weekly inspection to detect any signs of infection or other issues. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important as well, so frequent teeth brushing is advised to ensure proper dental care. Overall, staying proactive in the care and health maintenance of Golden Retrievers is key to ensuring their well-being and longevity. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important aspects of responsible dog ownership. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 5 (Golden Retriever) (NCL, NCL5) - DNA Test Elbow Evaluation Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Goldens shed their dense water-resistant double coat once or twice a year and they also consistently shed a moderate amount. To prevent excessive hair from ending up on furniture, it is recommended to brush them with a slicker brush once or twice a week. This regular brushing routine can effectively remove most of the dead hair. However, during periods of heavy shedding, daily brushing sessions are necessary. Giving your Golden a bath can help loosen the dead hairs but ensure that your furry friend is completely dry before starting the brushing process. Apart from that, occasional baths are sufficient to maintain their cleanliness. Just like any other breed, it is important to regularly trim the Golden's nails.

Exercise

	Similar to many other Sporting breeds, Golden Retrievers require a substantial amount of daily exercise. Insufficient physical activity can lead to undesirable behavior in these dogs. Goldens thrive as companions during long runs and bike rides but it's important to consult with a veterinarian before engaging in strenuous or high-impact activities that could potentially strain their bones and joints. Many Goldens find great enjoyment in exercising through hunting trips or field trials and they also excel in various canine sports such as agility, obedience and tracking.

Training

	For all breeds, it is highly recommended to prioritize early socialization and enroll puppies in training classes. Gentle exposure to diverse individuals, environments, and situations from seven weeks to four months of age is crucial in fostering a well-rounded and polite adult Golden Retriever. Puppy training classes play a vital role in the socialization process and assist owners in identifying and addressing any emerging undesirable behaviors. Obedience training further strengthens the bond between the canine and its owner, as Goldens possess an innate desire to please their human companions. With their outgoing nature, loyalty and eagerness to follow your commands, Golden Retrievers are highly trainable.

Nutrition

	To ensure the nutritional needs of your Golden Retriever are met, it is essential to provide them with a high-quality dog food appropriate for their specific life stage, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. Being mindful of calorie consumption and weight is important as some Goldens have a tendency to become overweight. If you choose to offer treats to your dog, it is important to do so in moderation. While treats can aid in training, excessive indulgence can lead to obesity. It is advisable to give table scraps sparingly, if at all especially avoiding cooked bones and foods that are high in fat. Educate yourself about safe human foods for dogs and those that should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, consulting with your veterinarian is recommended.

Historiography

The pioneering figure in the early history of the Golden Retriever is Lord Tweedmouth, formerly known as Dudley Marjoribanks. He played a pivotal role in developing this breed while residing at his Guisachan estate in the Scottish Highlands during Queen Victoria's reign. Between 1840 and 1890, Lord Tweedmouth meticulously documented the breedings that led to the creation of an ideal gundog tailored for the challenging conditions of the Highlands in Inverness-shire Scotland. In order to suit the region's rainy climate and rugged terrain, Tweedmouth crossed his 'Yellow Retriever' with the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel, incorporating Irish setter and Bloodhound into subsequent breedings.

An esteemed historian noted that Tweedmouth's astute breeding efforts resulted in a consistent lineage of exemplary working retrievers. Following Tweedmouth's contributions, the Golden Retriever underwent further refinement and emerged as a cherished contribution to the world of dogs courtesy of this enthusiastic hunting-loving aristocrat.

The Golden Retriever made its initial appearance at a British dog show in 1908 concurrently making its way to America via Canada. The breed garnered admiration from sport hunters for its practicality, while show enthusiasts were captivated by its beauty and charisma. Furthermore, the Golden Retriever impressed everyone with its amiable and rational temperament.

Although the breed enjoyed popularity from its early presence in America, it experienced a significant surge in popularity during the 1970s, an era marked by President Gerald Ford and his beloved Golden named Liberty.