History of the Golden Retriever

The Retriever was created from various setters and spaniels crossed with the St John's Newfoundland and the Water Spaniel and became popular in the early 1800s in England and Scotland. Retrievers were used for hunting wild fowl. Gamekeepers on the estate of Lord Tweedmouth at Inverness-Shire developed the Golden Retriever between 1835 and 1890 in Scotland and the Golden Retrievers gained popularity in England towards the end of the 19th century. Golden Retrievers were first shown in England in 1908 and The Golden Retriever Club (of England) was formed in 1913. The American Kennel Club registered the first Golden Retriever in 1925 and Golden Retriever Club of America was formed in 1938.

Appearance of the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever has a broad head with powerful muzzle, dark eyes set wide apart and ears set high on the head. The body has a deep chest and the tail sits horizontally. The coat of the Golden Retriever is wavy or flat with "feathering" on the stomach, chest and legs.

Height of the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever stands 21 to 24 inches up to the top of the shoulder.

Character of the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is gentle, well mannered, obedient, highly intelligent, friendly, reliable and trustworthy. Golden Retrievers make excellent family pets and are gentle towards children. They are also a good protection dog and make a reasonable watchdog. Golden Retrievers are also good swimmers.

Requirements of the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever requires plenty of exercise and regular grooming.

Health Problems Associated with the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever can be prone to hip and eye problems and so when buying a puppy these should be hip-scored and eye-screened. They can be prone to OCD arthritis.

Lifespan of the Golden Retriever

The average lifespan of the Golden Retriever is 9 to 15 years.