Overview
The Golden Retriever is one of the world's best-loved family dogs. It was created in Scotland as a gundog to fetch game from land and water, and it still has the energy and soft mouth for the job.
Its warm, tolerant nature and willingness to learn make it a favourite companion and assistance dog. It wants company and activity, and rarely makes a guard dog.
History
Sir Dudley Marjoribanks developed the breed in the later 1800s at his Guisachan estate in the Scottish Highlands. He crossed a yellow Flat-coated Retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel, then added Red Setter, Labrador and Bloodhound blood.
The Kennel Club recognised it in 1913 and it gained its present name in 1920. Winifred Charlesworth wrote the first standard and championed the breed. Between the wars it spread worldwide and has stayed hugely popular.
Appearance
A powerful, well-balanced dog with a broad head, dark friendly eyes, a wide muzzle and ears of moderate size that hang with a slight fold. The tail is long and straight, carried level with the back.
The water-resistant double coat is flat or wavy with feathering on legs and chest. Males stand about 56 to 61 cm.
Temperament
Goldens are kind, outgoing and biddable, usually tolerant of children, strangers and other animals. They are keen to join in everything the family does and love to carry things in their mouths.
They are intelligent and quick to train, but need company; a bored or lonely Golden may become boisterous or destructive. Many stay playful well into adulthood.
Care and exercise
Plenty of daily exercise, including retrieving and swimming, keeps a Golden content. Mental tasks and training games are equally welcome.
The dense coat needs brushing several times a week and sheds heavily, especially in spring and autumn. Watch the diet, as the breed gains weight easily, and check the ears regularly.
Health
Goldens are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, heart problems and skin allergies. They also have a higher than average risk of some cancers, so regular check-ups are wise.
