Golden Retriever Breed
The background and ancestry of Golden Retrievers are revealed in a tale of purpose and pedigree. These dogs originate from the first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, who had a vision to create the breed in the Scottish Highlands in the late 19th century. His objective was to develop a versatile, talented hunting dog which could retrieve waterfowl in a variety of difficult environments.
The noble amateur breeder carefully built his foundation stock, which included Irish Setters, Yellow Retrievers (now extinct), the Tweed Water Spaniel, and even an occasional sandy-colored Bloodhound. By meticulous breeding over time, he created the first Retrievers with stunning golden coats and remarkable hunting prowess. The United Kingdom's Kennel Club approved the breed's name as the “Golden Retriever” in 1911.
These dogs, cherished for their amiable nature, intelligence, and flexibility, are used as devoted family pets and skilled working dogs anywhere in our days.
Golden Retriever review
The Golden Retrievers are known for their outgoing, tender characters. They keep a puppy-like smile on their face well into adulthood. Their playfulness, affection, and well-balanced temper make Golden Retriever puppies a perfect addition to families with a baby and young child.
As the breed's name suggests, these pups have a natural instinct for retrieving things. Bringing toys and sticks back to their beloved owners is fun for Golden Retriever puppies. They are gentle and patient, and would stay by their owner’s side for hours on end.
Unlike other dogs, Golden Retrievers become calmer and more docile with age, breeders say; they won’t mind staying at home with their family members, skipping daily walks altogether.
Adorable GR puppies are very nice, perhaps too nice. Being “overfriendly” excuses them from making watch dogs, as they would likely befriend an intruder rather than attack him.
Breed Characteristics
Golden Retrievers are loved by many thanks to their angelic characters, friendly, intelligent, and compassionate. Other physical and character traits include:
- A breed on the bigger side, Goldens are around 22 inches high and weigh 70 lbs on average for a male; females tip 60 lbs.
- Very active dogs, Golden Retrievers are full of energy, ready to play games like without end. This makes them perfect toddler companions.
- Moderate shedders: the Golden’s recognizable lustrous coat does not shed much throughout the year and only requires a simple weekly brushing routine.
- Trainability: Golden Retriever puppies are smart and quick to learn new commands. This earns them good therapy dog distinction.
- Social butterflies: extroverts at heart, Golden Retrievers would make friends with anyone in a heartbeat, be it other puppies, adult dogs, or their human counterparts. They won’t mind living with other pets under one roof in the least.
What kind of health the Golden Retriever has
Golden Retrievers are blessed with good health and vitality. They typically enjoy a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years; some live longer with proper care. Still, this lot isn’t free from genetically predisposed ailments, usually promptly identified by breeders. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, certain heart conditions, and an increased risk of cancers, particularly in later years.
To ensure their well-being, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and attention to breed-specific health concerns are vital.
Goldies are susceptible to obesity, so maintaining a healthy weight through portion control and regular exercise is crucial. Their friendly, social nature necessitates regular mental stimulation and social interaction to keep them happy and well-adjusted.
What health tests are recommended
Prior to proceeding with the purchase of your desired Golden Retriever puppy, it’s advised to verify the seller's ability to substantiate the pup's health status with med and vet records. Typically, these expenses are factored in the total cost. Order the following testing results from your breeder contact:
- For hip and elbow dysplasia evaluation: OFA or PennHIP
- Heart evaluation: echocardiogram or cardiac auscultation
- Eye examination: CERF or OFA
- Blood tests: CBC, thyroid panel tests, coagulation profile
- Genetic DNA tests: GR-PRA1, GR-PRA2, ichthyosis, MD.
Take note, even a dog boasting impeccable health would require a significant measure of testing as it grows older. Vet bills over a lifetime may cost a fortune, just like with humans. A shrewd owner would save a lot with a good pet health insurance.
Golden Retriever puppy price
While searching for a “Golden Retriever puppy for sale near me” or “price of Golden Retriever puppies,” take into consideration that evaluations may vary significantly, with the reason for that not easy to grasp sometimes. Reputable breeders who prioritize responsible practices, including health testing and proper care, often charge higher prices.
Geographic location also plays a role; urban areas typically see higher costs of living, resulting in higher tags. A puppy's pedigree and bloodlines, including any champion or show-quality lineage, can order estimates up for Golden Retriever puppies for sale.
Buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder
Breeders with years of experience provide a lot of advantages to you and your potential furry friend. Accredited kennels invest heavily in health and well-being issues, adhering to strict vaccination and check-up protocols.
Additionally, you could get a sense of the puppy's developing character and personality by taking a look at its family via a video link, as these traits are frequently inherited. Take advice on the suggested breed-specific training tools and diet.