History
In 1865 the first yellow retriever was purchased and breed with Tweed Water Spaniel in 1868 in England and Scotland. These were the foundation of the Golden Retriever as a breed. The Golden Retriever Club (UK) was formed in 1911 and the club and the breed were recognised by the UK Kennel Club in 1913 when given the separate register – Retrievers (Golden or Yellow).
Description
Symmetrical, balanced, active, powerful, level mover; sound with kindly expression.
Grooming and Physical Needs
- Grooming Needs: Because of the density of the coat, Goldens must be regularly groomed and trimmed. The undercoat, because of its water repellant nature, is extremely thick and must therefore not be allowed to matt.
- Coat Type: Flat or wavy with good feathering, dense water-resisting undercoat.
- Moulting: Heavy shedding.
- Exercise Needs: Adult Goldens require a reasonable amount of exercise to keep them in peak condition.
- Average Life Span: 12 years.
Behaviour
- Family: Suitable for all age types, providing the owners can spend time with them.
- Temperament: Kindly, friendly and confident.
- Trainability: Goldens are extremely intelligent dogs with an intense desire to please making them quite easy to train.
- Sociability (Other Pets): Excellent with other dogs and pets.
- Barking: Medium tendency.
Talents
Superb candidates for fieldwork, showing, obedience, companionship and assistance for the disabled.
Notes
As puppies, without careful exercise management, they can be prone to OCD. In general, Goldens are a healthy breed.