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| Breed: Golden Retriever |
| Also Called: Yellow Retriever |
| Height: The Golden Retriever is about 21-24 inches. |
| Weight: The Golden Retriever weighs between 60-80 lbs. |
| Colors: The Golden Retriever can be light to dark shades of gold. |
| General Appearance: The Golden Retriever is a symmetrical, powerful, active dog, sound and well put together, not clumsy nor long in the leg, displaying a kindly expression and possessing a personality that is eager, alert and self-confident. Primarily a hunting dog, he should be shown in hard working condition. |
| Temperment: The Golden Retriever is friendly, reliable, and trustworthy. Quarrelsomeness or hostility towards other dogs or people in normal situations, or an unwarranted show of timidity or nervousness, is not in keeping with Golden Retriever character. |
| Care: The Golden Retriever sheds a fair amount and should be groomed weekly with a firm bristle brush or comb. Bathed when needed. |
| Health Concerns: |
| Training: The Golden Retrievers are used successfully in field trials, hunting, obedience, and as guide dogs for the blind. |
| Activity: The Golden Retrievers needs long daily walks and the opportunity to run freely. |
| Life Span: The Golden Retriever lives an average life of 10-12 years. |
| Litter Size: The Golden Retriever has an average litter of 6-10 puppies. |
| Country of Origin: The Golden Retriever originated in Great Britain. |
| Brief History: The Golden Retriever was developed in late 19th century Scotland and England primarily by crossing Flat- and Wavy-coated Retrievers, Tweed Water Spaniels, and a red Setter. The Golden was bred by British aristocrats to be a dual purpose dog, able to retrieve waterfowl and upland game birds and also to be a companion. Lord Tweedmouth produced some of the early foundation stock by mating a yellow Wavy-coated Retriever named Nous to his Tweed Water Spaniel, Belle. The Golden Retriever's friendly disposition, attractive appearance, and high level of trainability have made this breed one of the most popular in the United States. Today, Goldens are found at field trials and dog shows, in family homes and nursing homes, leading the blind and serving as ears or hands for handicapped persons. |
| Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI, KC (GB), UKC |