Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, with its intelligence and eager to please attitude, is one of the most popular breeds in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics . The working ability that has made the Golden Retriever such a useful hunting companion also makes him an ideal guide, assistance and search and rescue dog. The golden-colored coat is the hallmark of this versatile breed, and can range from light to dark gold.

This active and energetic Sporting breed can adapt to many different living situations but requires daily exercise. His water-repellent double-coat sheds seasonally and needs regular brushing. With his friendly temperament and striking golden color, this breed is both beautiful to look at and a joy to own.

• Average size: from 55 to 75 pounds.
• Devoted companions, hunting dog.
  
• Golden Retrievers are used successfully in field trials, hunting, obedience, and as guide dogs for the blind.

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart disease are common inherited health issues in Golden Retrievers for which there are screening examinations. GRCA recommends breeders perform standard health screening tests for these on their breeding stock.
A number of other health issues may affect Golden Retrievers, and some of the most common are allergies, cancer, and hypothyroidism.

Thinking about a Golden Retriever as a pet?

Reasons NOT to get a Golden Retriever:

• YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN “OUTSIDE ONLY” DOG. Part of what makes Goldens “Golden” is their affectionate, people loving nature. This trait makes them VERY unhappy when they don’t have a high amount of interaction with you. A Golden confined to the backyard can become destructive and LOUD! Imagine if you left your children alone most of the time until they reached adolescence. The wild child you are picturing is similar to what will happen to a Golden left alone that much. If you aren’t planning on your dog becoming one of the family – a Golden is not the breed for you!
• YOU DON”T LIKE DOG HAIR. Goldens shed – a little all year round and then a couple of times a year- look out! If you have a problem with Golden fuzz becoming part of your dietary fiber or you’re compulsive about always dressing in black – this is not the breed for you! Goldens also need regular grooming to keep their skin and coat in good condition. You can easily learn to do this yourself or have your dog professionally groomed, but grooming time is something to factor into the amount of time you will need to spend caring for your dog.
• YOU HAVE NO SENSE OF HUMOR. Goldens are born with a sense of mischief. If you really see nothing funny about waking up to a cold, slobbery tennis ball in your face or a puppy that decides that 2:00 a.m. is a great time to play fetch – perhaps another breed or an older dog might be best.
• YOU ARE A CLEAN FREAK. Muddy paws, nose prints on every window in your house and car, and did I mention the hair? Enough said… If you can’t relax and enjoy it, you and your dog will both be miserable.
• YOU ARE A COUCH POTATO AND HOPE YOUR DOG WILL BE TOO. Goldens are sporting dogs, bred to retrieve game all day. They need regular exercise, especially as puppies, or they can become destructive and unhappy. If your longest walk in the past month was from the couch to your bed – perhaps a more sedentary pet would better suit your needs?
• YOU LIKE EVERYTHING TO STAY RIGHT WHERE YOU PUT IT. Goldens have a last name - “Retriever”, from the Latin meaning “to put EVERYTHING in your mouth and dance around with it!” The retrieving instinct SHOULD be a part of every Golden so if you object strongly to your dog happily strutting out to greet company with your underwear in his mouth – perhaps you should continue your search for the perfect breed.
• YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A GUARD DOG. Did I mention the part about Goldens loving everyone? They will be eager to assist the thieves that are breaking into your home; probably even helping them carry out the silver. If you are looking for protection this probably isn’t an endearing quality… maybe that guard dog is looking better.
• YOU LOOK AT THAT LITTLE 10-POUND BALL OF FUR AND OFFER UP A SILENT PRAYER THAT HE’LL STAY THAT SIZE. Goldens should range from 21 inches at the shoulder to around 24 and weigh in anywhere from 50 to 80 lbs. This is a lot of dog. If you don’t plan on heeding my advice about obedience classes, you may find yourself with an out of control, furry, wiggly, monster with a tail that can clear a coffee table in one great swoop!