Golden Retriever
Overview
Golden Retrievers began as hunting dogs in Scotland in the 1800s. There is a well-documented history of the breed that was kept by gamekeepers for Lord Tweedmouth at his Guisachan estate. The records on these exuberant dogs were published in the early 1950s by a descendent of the Scottish Lord.
CHARACTERISTICS
The breed gets quickly recognized by its dense, golden fur, and short ears. They are medium to large dogs with broad heads and straight muzzles. A Golden Retriever has boundless energy and will never fail to rush excitedly to your side.
This loving breed enjoys cuddling and, despite their large size, are incredibly gentle dogs. Even though they are outgoing, boisterous animals, they have a calm attitude and do not bark often. If you're looking for a guard dog, a Golden Retriever is not the best choice.
TEMPERAMENT
Goldens are now one of the most popular breeds in the United States due to their friendly and eager-to-please attitudes. They are intelligent dogs and easily trained. These loyal family dogs maintain their puppy-like energy into adulthood. They love to fetch, play outside, and swim.
Golden Retrievers are safe dogs to have around children, even alone. They are trustworthy and possess a caring nature, which makes them a wonderful pet for little ones. Because they are a bigger dog, a smaller child could accidentally get knocked down by an excited Golden. They would not intentionally cause harm to the child or anyone else.
LIFESPAN
Owners of the Golden Retriever can expect to have 10-12 years with their feathery tailed companion, a decline from the 16-17 years it used to be five decades ago. The most common cause of death for them is cancer, particularly hemangiosarcoma.
SHEDDING
Known for their lustrous golden coat, it is a high maintenance feature of the dog and will need daily brushing to maintain it. Golden Retrievers are profuse shedders, most notably in the spring. Regular brushing and frequent baths can help keep the furballs to a minimum.
TRAINING
This smart breed gets easily trained in regards to pottying and following commands. These dogs enjoy bringing happiness to their owners and will eagerly follow instructions.
They are so adept at learning that Golden Retrievers are commonly guided dogs for the blind as well as search and rescue dogs. Agility and obedience classes would be successful endeavors for them. They like physical activity and mental challenges.
Breed Information
| Popularity: | 2018: #3 2017: #3 2016: #3 2015: #3 |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Breed Group: | Sporting (AKC:1925) Gun Dog (UKC |
| Size: | Medium to Large |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Life span: | 10-12 years |
| Temperament: | Confident Friendly Intelligent Kind Reliable Trustworthy |
| Height: | Male: 22-24 inches (56-61cm) Female: 20-22 inches (51-56 cm) |
| Weight: | Male: 60-80 pounds (27-36 kg) Female: 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg) |
| Colors: | Golden Dark Golden Light Golden |
| Litter Size: | 5-10 puppies |
| Puppy Price: | Average $1000 - $2000 USD |
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Dog names
| Rank | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bear | Chloe |
| 2 | Teddy | Zoey |
| 3 | Murphy | Ruby |
| 4 | Gus | Lulu |
| 5 | Bruno | Princess |
| 6 | Roscoe | Izzy |
| 7 | Brody | Ella |
| 8 | George | Sandy |
| 9 | Simba | Phoebe |
| 10 | Tyson | Scout |
| 11 | Ziggy | Jasmine |
| 12 | Oreo | Macy |
| 13 | Copper | Cocoa |
| 14 | Kobe | Grace |
| 15 | Chewy | Nikki |