One of the most popular dog breeds out there, if not the breed among family dogs, Golden Retriever is excellent with kids, highly intelligent and easily trainable.
Origin
The Golden Retriever was originally bred in Scotland in the mid 19th century when wildfowl hunting was a popular sport for the wealthy Scottish elite. However, the existing retriever breeds weren’t that good at retrieving downed game from both water and land, thus the best water spaniels were cross-bred with the existing retrievers, and the breed today known as the Golden Retriever was born.
Description
There are three subtypes of the Golden Retriever: British type, American type and Canadian type, which all vary a bit in dimensions and coat.
However, all types are generally blonde, yellow, or gold in color, and they are all susceptible to the same health problems.
The average height of a British type is between 56 and 61 cm (22 and 24 in) at the withers, while the average for American and Canadian is between 23 and 24 in (58 and 61 cm).
As for their temperament, Golden Retrievers are very smart dogs that are loyal and friendly to their caregivers. Often described as “kindly, friendly and confident”, these pooches make good family pets, particularly as they are patient with children.
Pros
- intelligent
- great family breed
- adaptable
- trainable
- dog friendly
- cat friendly
Cons
- susceptible to specific ailments, so yearly veterinarian checkups are required
- prone to hip dysplasia
- obesity is common
Should I adopt/buy a Golden Retriever?
If you are looking for a number 1 family pooch that will be as great with the little ones as it will be with the other pets, this golden ball of fur is probably the breed for you.