The Golden Retriever is a relatively modern and very popular breed of dog. It was developed as a retrieving dog to use while hunting wild fowl. Today it is one of the most common family dogs as it is easy to handle, very tolerant and does not require very much of the owners, other than regular exercise, food and veterinary check-ups. It is often affectionately known as a Golden or “Yellow Retriever”.
History: The Golden Retriever was first developed in the British Isles, probably from crosses between a yellow Flat-Coated Retriever, light-coated Tweed Water Spaniels, other spaniels, setters and even the Newfoundland and possibly the Bloodhound. In fact the breed was first shown as a Golden Flat-Coat.
Appearance: The Golden Retriever is a beautiful, sturdy, well-proportioned dog with a feathered, medium-length, cream to golden-colored coat. The head is broad, with a tapering, but wide, powerful muzzle. It has a scissors bite and a clear frontal stop. Ears are rather short with front edge attached well behind and just above the eye and falling close to cheek. Neck is medium long, merging gradually into well laid back shoulders, giving sturdy, muscular appearance. The tail is long, but never curled. The coat should be dense and waterproof. All pigmentation should be preferably black. Red or mahogany is not allowed. White markings and black hairs are not acceptable.
Size: Height: Dogs 22-24 inches (56-61cm); bitches 20-22 inches (51-56cm)
Weight: Dogs 60-80 pounds (27-36kg.); bitches 55-70 pounds (25-32kg)
Temperament: The Golden is a gentle dog with intelligence and a level disposition and because of this is an ideal dog to have as part of the family. They adore children and love to be involved in all family matters. Golden Retrievers enjoy pleasing their masters, so obedience training can be fun. They excel in obedience competitions. Friendly with everyone, including other dogs, the Golden Retriever has very little, if any, guarding instincts. While unlikely to attack, Goldens make good watchdogs, loudly signaling a stranger’s approach.
Health: They are prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, and skin allergies
Life expectancy: About 10-12 years
Grooming: The smooth, medium-haired double coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, paying particular attention to the dense undercoat. The tail should be trimmed in a crescent shape. The chest area should be kept relatively short in order to show off the length of neck. It is important to not over feed the Golden Retriever, as they have a tendency to gain weight.
Puppy price: $ 300.00 - $ 2.500.00