Originally from the Scottish Highlands, the golden retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. It is an intelligent dog that seeks to please its owner, as well as being a useful hunting companion, an ideal guide, and a search and rescue dog. This breed is usually recognized by its golden coat and long, elegant muzzle. This lively and energetic breed is able to adapt to many different life situations.
In the late 1800s, Scottish hunters wanted to create an excellent hunting hound. Hunters began crossing golden retrievers with yellow retrievers and tweed spaniels, which are now extinct, to create the perfect retriever for Scotland’s climate, terrain and available game. Irish setters, bloodhounds, and other versions of the tweed spaniel were mixed together to ultimately create the dog we know and love today.
Due to the energetic personality of the golden retriever, he needs exercise every day. In addition to swimming and running, what they crave is human company. They are probably not a suitable pet for someone who cannot devote a lot of time and attention to their pet. They also do not do well in small, cramped apartment buildings. Golden retrievers are incredibly skilled at agility and love to learn new tricks. This type of personality makes them great at games like catching a Frisbee or tennis ball, as well as being a good working dog. Their experience as hunting dogs increases their desire to perform tasks such as finding lost people for the police or on search and rescue missions. Although their breed is wonderful for companionship, they tend to be better for an active family with children than a pet for the elderly.
Although the life expectancy is 10 to 14 years, golden retrievers tend to suffer from multiple different health problems during their lifetime. These problems include cataracts, entropion, allergies, thyroid problems, cancer, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. One way to reduce these health problems early is to make sure you buy a puppy from a reputable breeder who makes sure their puppy is OFA and CERF certified. These prove that your dogs are in good health and that certain genetic health problems are likely not to be passed on,
Golden retrievers generally have a friendly temperament and the ability to get along with strangers, which in turn makes them not good watchdogs. They are known to be incredibly trusting, obedient, sweet, and loving. Their golden coloring and striking, sweet faces make the golden retriever a beautiful dog and a joy to have.