Golden Retrievers were originally bred to be Hunting dogs. 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.

Today, they are one of the worlds most sought-after breeds for training in any number of service-related jobs. Their outstanding temperament and intelligence make them strong candidates for nearly all types of services to mankind.

Golden Retrievers are trained for search & rescue, arson detection, drug detection, therapy dogs, hearing dogs, guide dogs for the blind, and handicap assistance dogs. Not to mention outstanding hunting and personal companions.

These are lovable, well-mannered, intelligent dogs with a great charm. They are easily trained, and always patient and gentle with children. Loyal, confident, sweet and eager to please. It is active, loving and an outstanding family dog. 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. These dogs also love to swim.

This breed will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least a medium to large yard.

The Golden Retriever needs to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. In addition, they like to retrieve balls and other toys. Be sure to exercise this dog well and do not overfeed, as he tends to put on weight.

Prone to hip dysplasia and congenital eye defects. Parents should also be checked for Von Willebrand's disease and heart problems. Skin allergies are common in Golden Retrievers and require immediate veterinary attention.

47 per cent of large dogs are likely to develop Osteoarthritis. Retrievers, German Shepherd dogs, Rottweilers, Newfounlands and Buldogs appear to have the highest risk of developing canine osteoarthritis compared to other breeds.

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. Dry shampoo regularly, but bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

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.)

Life Expectancy: About 10-12 years

"Good-tempered, very agile. Excellent nose, soft mouth; keen love of water. Adaptable, devoted companion. Intelligent, keen and biddable, with a strong will to please. Kindly nature, with no trace of aggression or undue shyness."
-UK Kennel Club standard

If you are thinking about getting a Golden Retriever for the first time you can read more about the Golden Retriever Facts here:

CLICK HERE and READ "The Golden Retriever Handbook" by D. Caroline Coile Ph.D.



"A Must Have For Golden Owners!" (Customer Review)

My husband and I are planning on getting our first dog (together) and it will definitely be a Golden Retriever.

I grew up with these dogs and I'm a veterinary technician, so I'm pretty familiar with the breed and all the potential health problems.

Since this is my first dog, on my own, I wanted to make sure I do things right and not overlook anything.

This book is an excellent reference for the first time owner or even a seasoned one.

* There's detailed information on the
history of the breed,
* descriptions and illustrations of American and British standards,
* what to look for when chosing a puppy or dog,
* how to feed & proper nutrition, proper grooming, diseases and conditions that are common for dogs in general to ones more specific to Goldens.
* This book even tells you how to perform a quick physical on your dog so that you can learn what's normal and what's not, enabling you to identify potential problems as soon as they arise.
* One thing that surprised me was a section on blood tests and an explanation of some of the more common tests done on dogs.
* There's also a section on first aid, artificial respiration, and CPR.
* Another valuable section, is one on training. It goes beyond the basics and includes an introduction to field, agility, and conformation.

There is such a wealth of in-depth information to make this book an essential.
(Herculaneum, MO USA)

Golden Retriever Facts - find all you need for your Golden Retriever here: Golden Retriever Facts