Read About Golden Retriever

This very popular breed comes by their reputation honestly -- they are terrific dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Large dogs

2. Weight:

   Like many breeds, there is a marked difference between male and female size: While males are 65-75 lbs, females are 55-65 lbs

3. Coat:

   This breed is double-coated dogs with a soft, dense undercoat and a harsher, longer outer coat. Their fur is moderately water-repellent and they often have feathering.

4. Shedding:

   Golden Retrievers are very heavy shedders.

5. Temperament:

   Golden Retrievers are friendly, gentle, and sociable; their playfulness is legendary.

6. Obedience:

   This breed is very well-behaved, given appropriate, early training and socialization.

7. Ease of Training:

   Smart and very easy to train. In addition to their suburban housedog reputation, Golden Retrievers are terrific hunting dogs.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Sporting Group/1981

2. Size & Weight:

   Like many breeds, there is a marked difference between male and female size/ While males are 23-24" and 65-75 lbs, females are 211/2-221/2 and 55-65 lbs

3. Coat:

   This breed is double-coated dogs with a soft, dense undercoat and a harsher, longer outer coat. Their fur is moderately water-repellent and they often have feathering.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   These dogs have lovely, strong head, with a wide forehead and a rounded muzzle. Golden Retrievers should have a gentle, warm, friendly expression and darker brown eyes.

5. Body:

   Golden Retrievers are strong, sturdy, but not overly-heavy.

6. Colors:

   All shades of gold. Puppies are often lighter and darken as they age. Their feathering can be lighter than the rest of the coat, but any other colors than lush golden shades are not acceptable.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 years

8. Popularity:

   Golden Retrievers are the second-most popular dog in the United States.

9. Habitat:

   This dog will do well almost anywhere, as long as they get long walks and lots of exercise. They love fetch games, and are often service dogs, too.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Great Britain

2. Historical Information:

   Said to date from the early 1800s, Golden Retrievers were popular hunting dogs in Scotland.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Golden Retrievers are friendly, gentle, and sociable; their playfulness is legendary.

2. Behavior:

   Well-behaved dogs, they are generally placid but can be quite playful.

3. Habits:

   As long as they have enough to do, Golden Retrievers have few bad habits.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   The most common Golden Retriever ailments include epilepsy, hip dysplasia, cataracts, and skin disorders.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Golden Retrievers need lots of exercise and playtime.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Daily brushing, if possible, will keep your Golden's coat shiny, minimize shedding, and nip any matting in the bud. If they hunt, be sure to groom all potential grubby bits out of your dog's coat -- burrs, twigs, and the like.

4. Travel Needs:

   While large dogs should always be transported with caution; Golden Retrievers are so amiable, travel usually isn't a problem

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Excellent with other pets and children.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy. Golden Retriever puppies are completely playful clowns!

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.