Golden Retriever
Alternative names: No commonly known alternative names.
History of the breed
The Golden Retriever originated in Scotland in the late 19th century. The breed was developed by Lord Tweedmouth, who wanted to breed a dog that excelled at retrieving game, both on land and in water. By crossing a yellow retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel, the Golden Retriever as we know it today was created. Thanks to its gentle nature and versatility, the breed quickly became popular as a hunting dog, family pet, and working dog, serving as assistance and therapy dogs.
Character and temperament
The Golden Retriever is a friendly, sociable, and intelligent dog. It is naturally gentle and has a strong desire to please its owner, making it easy to train. This breed is patient and playful, making it perfect for families with children. Golden Retrievers are sociable and get along well with other pets. Their loving nature makes them one of the most popular companion dogs in the world.
Physical characteristics
- Height at the withers: 56-61 cm (male), 51-56 cm (female).
- Weight: 25-34 kg.
- Coat: Dense, water-repellent double coat; longer and wavy in places.
- Colors: Various shades of gold, ranging from light cream to dark gold.
- Sizes for collars and harnesses: Neck circumference 45-55 cm, chest circumference 70-85 cm.
Care
The Golden Retriever's longer coat requires regular grooming. Weekly brushing prevents tangles and removes loose hair. More frequent brushing is necessary during shedding season. Pay attention to ear hygiene, trim nails as needed, and ensure good dental care to prevent dental problems.
Movement and activity
The Golden Retriever is an energetic and active breed that needs plenty of daily exercise. Long walks, swimming, and games of fetch are perfect for physical and mental stimulation. This breed also enjoys dog sports like obedience, agility, and tracking. Without sufficient exercise, they can become bored and exhibit destructive behavior.
Health
The Golden Retriever is a healthy breed, but may be prone to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Eye problems, such as cataracts
- Heart disease
- Cancer (with certain types being more common in this breed)
The average life expectancy is 10-12 years.
Power supply
A balanced diet is important for a Golden Retriever. An adult dog eats an average of 400-600 grams of food per day, depending on its weight, age, and activity level. Choose a food with high-quality proteins and healthy fats, and divide meals into two portions to prevent digestive problems.
Training and socialization
The Golden Retriever is intelligent and has a strong desire to please, making it one of the easiest breeds to train. Positive reinforcement and patience are essential when training this breed. Early socialization is important to ensure it gets along well with other animals and people. It excels in obedience training and enjoys mental challenges.
Suitability for owners
The Golden Retriever is a perfect choice for families and active individuals willing to dedicate time and attention to exercise, training, and interaction. It's a good fit for families with children and those who enjoy outdoor activities. This breed is less suitable for those seeking a calm, inactive dog or those who have little time to spend with their dog.
Share your experience with us!
Do you own a Golden Retriever? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!