The 10 Most Important Golden Retriever Facts

Are you interested in golden retrievers? Maybe you want to buy or adopt one of these adorable and intelligent dogs. Few things are more adorable than the cheerful glow of a new puppy. Or maybe you just want to learn more about this famously friendly breed of dog. This article contains all the basic information about the golden retriever. Begin to become an expert on this enthusiastic and hard-working breed.

1. Golden retrievers are large, active dogs that love human company. They like to work and play. Goldens are friendly with people, strangers, children, dogs, and pets, making them great for families. They are great swimmers and have a strong sense of smell. Goldens work as service dogs, guide dogs, hunting dogs, and excel in agility, obedience, and hunting competitions.

2. Goldens are prone to shedding a bit and require regular grooming. Common health problems include hip and elbow dysplasia, heart problems, eye disorders including cataracts, and cancer. All of these health problems are hereditary and can often be prevented by testing them in a breeding pair before they have a litter.

3. American goldens are slightly different from European golden dogs. The American Breed Standard is different from the British and other European Breed Standards. European goldens tend to be stockier and a bit shorter. American dogs tend to have longer fur.

4. American standards allow for layers of a darker shade of gold, sometimes called mahogany or red. European rules allow a lighter shade of gold called cream in the show ring. This is sometimes confused with white. So a ‘platinum blonde’ golden must meet the European Breed Standard. If a dog does not fit any of these guidelines, he is not a purebred.

5. This is a popular breed of dog and there are a plethora of breeders out there. Finding a quality breeder is essential while avoiding the ‘backyard breeder’. Seek out the parents of the puppies to have them tested and certified for hip dysplasia and other common health problems. Also look to see that all golden dogs are registered with the AKC, KC, or the appropriate kennel club. In both cases, ask for paperwork. Be sure to visit your breeder and spend time with each pup’s parents.

6. Raising dorados the right way is a full-time commitment. Any breeding program must be based on the Breed Standard, whether American or European. A record of 3 to 5 generations of purebred golden should be kept. Breeding pairs must be tested and certified by the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) for the most common healthy foods. Also for the eyes, get CERF certified. A puppy guarantee must be provided so that the customer can return a dog within a fair time frame. Breeding programs must be open and honest so that all dogs are accessible to visitors.

7. Adopting a golden is commonplace because the breed is so popular. Even puppies can be found through adoption. It’s easy to save money by adopting a golden and at the same time providing a service to the pet population. There is usually an adoption fee of $350 or less. There are many services available for adoption, such as local animal control organizations, humane societies, dog shelters, and rescue groups. Also widespread are golden retriever rescue organizations that specialize in saving abandoned and neglected goldens. There are also puppy rescue organizations.

8. There are few things more adorable than a golden retriever puppy. There are clear differences between buying from a breeder and adopting. Breeders sell golden puppies at a wide range of prices, from around $200 to $2,500. Typically, European, light cream-colored, and champion pedigreed dogs will be more expensive. Purchasing from a pet store is generally not recommended because these dogs often come from puppy mills and ‘backyard breeders’. Often these pups have genetic defects and health problems due to poor breeding practices.

9. Golden pups like to chew, so be prepared with chew toys to take care of your insides. Known for their intelligence, golden pups are easy to train. Using positive reinforcement in training rather than harsh discipline will get you better results with this breed. Also use consistency with training and set some clear house rules right away. Golden pups should already have been socialized when purchased or adopted. Training classes are a good idea as dogs learn faster when they are younger.

10. In search of the ideal hunting retriever, Baron Tweedmouth first developed golden retrievers in the late 19th century. They were originally bred to retrieve shot birds and waterfowl and often had to swim in cold water. His highland estate was located near Loch Ness in the north of Scotland.

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