Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Golden Retriever is a beautiful, powerful, sturdy, well-balanced, well-proportioned dog with a feathered, medium-length, cream to golden-colored coat. It is loyal, sweet, and eager to please. This dog is gentle with children; it enjoys the endless attention children provide. Though it will adapt well to a kennel environment, it prefers human companionship and is not happy in solitude. This breed is very active, makes an ideal companion to a sportsman.

TEMPERAMENT

Golden Retriever dogs are lovable, well-mannered dogs with a great charm. They are very intelligent and responsive. They are always patient and gentle with children. Golden Retriever dogs make outstanding family dogs; they enjoy pleasing their masters, so obedience training can be fun. They make good watchdogs, loudly signaling a stranger's approach. Golden Retriever dogs have very little guarding instincts; they are friendly with everyone, including other dogs. These dogs need human companionship; they like to be around people. If left alone for long periods of time, Golden Retriever dogs may become mischievous. They can be over-exuberant and distractible. Some of the Golden Retriever’s talents are hunting, tracking, retrieving, narcotics detection, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks. They make excellent gundogs, guide or service dogs. They excel in obedience competitions. Golden Retriever dogs need daily exercise, but like to retrieve balls and sticks, so exercising is fairly easy; also love to swim. Be sure to exercise this dog well and do not overfeed, as they tend to put on weight.

GROOMING

Flat or wavy with good feathering, dense, water-resistant undercoat. The smooth, medium-haired double coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, paying particular attention to the dense undercoat. Dry shampoo regularly; bathe only when necessary. Golden Retriever dogs are average shedders.

HEALTH

Hip dysplasia, hereditary cataracts, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and epilepsy. Due to the popularity of the breed, some have been inbred and have increased the risk of inherited diseases such as skin diseases, cancer, ectropion (extroverted eyelids), entropion (inverted eyelids), and heart disease.

EXERCISE

Golden Retriever dogs need long daily walks and the opportunity to run freely, as they tend to become pudgy if not well exercised. Golden Retriever dogs are eager to attend any activity you may have for them.

TRAINING

Golden Retriever dogs train easily, as they are eager to please.