Golden Retriever Dog Breed

When buying the acknowledged embodiment of gentle affection, the right information is of the utmost importance. Golden Retrievers are characterised not merely by their lovable personality but also by their supplementary characteristics, appearance and, of course, cost. This article sets out to make the decision process relatively easy and put to rest any lingering doubts or hesitation.

Quick Links:

• Golden Retriever Characteristics
• Golden Retriever Origin
• Golden Retriever Personality
• Golden Retriever Appearance
• Adopting a Golden Retriever
• How much does a Golden Retriever Cost?
• Golden Retriever FAQs
• Additional Resources on Golden Retrievers

If words aren’t your thing, watch this video to learn more about Golden Retrievers:

GOLDEN RETRIEVER CHARACTERISTICS

Life Span: 10–12 years	Grooming: Moderate	Child-Friendly: Yes	Tendency to Bark: Occasionally
Health Issues: Moderate	Shedding Level: Moderate	Apartment Friendly: Yes	Tendency to Snore: Moderate
Energy Level: Moderate	Adaptability: High	Pet Friendly: Yes	Tendency to Drool: Moderate
Exercise Needs: High	Social Needs: Moderate	Affection Level: High	Trainability: High

GOLDEN RETRIEVER ORIGIN

Sir Dudley Marjoribanks developed the Golden Retriever in Scotland in the nineteenth century by selectively breeding Flat-Coated Retrievers and Tweed Water Spaniels with other British dog breeds. The exact origins of the breed were the subject of a number of romantic tales before the 1952 publication of Marjoribanks’ exceptionally detailed studbook.

Keen on some fun facts about the Golden Retriever’s history? 

• For decades, many people believed that the Golden Retriever was a descendant of a Russian circus dog. 
• Golden Retrievers originated in Tomich, a village in Scotland. 
• Essentially, the breed is a cross between a Tweed Water Spaniel and a Wavy-Coated Retriever, both of which have since become extinct. 
• The very first litter of Golden Retrievers was born in 1868. 
• Golden Retrievers were bred to hunt waterfowl. 
• Golden retrievers were not recognised by the American Kennel Club until 57 years after the first ones were bred. 

GOLDEN RETRIEVER PERSONALITY

Golden Retrievers are mild-mannered, clever, and affectionate. Given their playfulness and gentle demeanour, as well as the fact that they quickly get along well with other animals, children and strangers are commonly attracted to them.

The fact that they respond so well to obedience training and are such popular service dogs can be attributed to their eagerness to please. They also enjoy doing chores, such as picking up their guardian’s slippers or hunting birds.

Generally, Golden Retrievers don’t bark and do not have guarding instincts, so their job will not be to act as watchdogs. Nevertheless, some Golden Retrievers will warn you when a stranger approaches.

Key personality traits to note:

• They’re cuddle lovers
• They love to please 
• They’re very trainable
• They’re very gentle
• They love exercise 
• They’re friendly to other animals
• They’re loyal

GOLDEN RETRIEVER APPEARANCE

The Golden Retriever has large, floppy ears, a long muzzle and medium-length fur. Various shades of gold – ranging from light cream to red tones – make up their flowing, water-resistant coats.

The average Golden Retriever weighs between 25 kg and 32 kg, and they stand 60 cm tall. 

Have a look at this quick run-through of the Golden Retriever’s most defining features:

• Feathering on the thighs, neck, legs, underside and tail
• Broad and robust head
• Hanging ears 
• Deep chest
• Balanced body

The Golden Retriever’s coat comes in: 

• Dark gold
• Light gold
• Gold 
• Cream

Feel free to read more about the Golden Retriever’s coat colours here. 

ADOPTING A GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Check for these factors when looking for a Golden Retrievers for sale: 

• Trusted reviews of breeders with a longstanding history 
• Breeders with infrequent litters. This indicates that a breeder is taking the appropriate safety measures. 
• Breeders with in-depth knowledge of the breed. They should know the breed like the back of their hand. 
• Breeders who encourage you to meet the dog’s parents. 

Use this as a guide while looking for a reliable breeder.

When looking to adopt a Golden Retriever, it may seem easier to go to a shelter; however, purebreds in shelters are usually mature dogs. You should always consider adopting from a shelter or a rescue: 

• When looking for a fully-grown GoldenRetriever 
• When looking to give a puppy a second chance at a warm home and a loving and comfortable life 

Have a look at some popular shelters here. Other dog rescue organizations are listed here.

HOW MUCH DO GOLDEN RETRIEVERS COST?

Golden Retrievers, one of Australia’s most popular breeds, cost between $3500 to $5000. 

GOLDEN RETRIEVER FAQS

Are Golden Retrievers good pets? 

Golden Retrievers are playful and gentle giants. They tend to be exceptionally friendly with other animals and children. The Golden Retriever is eager to please and highly trainable, which explains why they are such great service dogs.

Do Golden Retrievers shed a lot?

Golden Retrievers don’t shed a lot all the time, but when they do shed, they tend to shed a large amount at least twice a year. 

 Are Golden Retrievers smart? 

They are, in fact, one of the most intelligent dog breeds, ranking 4th for the smartest dog when it comes to obedience and walking. Though their keen ability to read emotions and communicate is what makes this breed truly smart. 

How rare is a Golden Retriever puppy? 

No, these puppies aren’t rare at all, but there has recently been a Green Golden Retriever that was born which is extremely rare. 

What to Expect When Expecting a Golden Retriever? 

There are always responsibilities that come with getting a dog, especially a Golden Retriever, because of its loving nature and energy. Here’s a list of things to consider before buying a Golden Retriever: 

• They are quite high in energy and need lots of exercise and walks
• They shed quite hectically about twice a year 
• Their food can become quite expensive
• They are loving and need lots of attention 
• They usually prefer to be in the company of someone else instead of alone 
• They should generally be neutered. 

Additional Resources on Golden Retrievers

• Golden Retriever puppies and how to train them
• Learn everything you need to know about Dark Golden Retrievers by clicking the link 
• Learn more Golden Retriever facts by clicking on the link
• What is the difference between Golden Retrievers vs Labradors? Click the link to find out
• Find out about Golden Retriever Rescue areas near you by clicking on the link 
• Find out what Golden Retriever names you can give your dog by clicking on the link 

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