You’d have to from another planet not to be familiar with Golden Retrievers. This beautiful, exuberant, and loving dog breed is always among the most popular of family pets. Anyone who has been loved by a Golden knows what a devoted companion he is. But there’s so much more to know about this lovable breed.
1. Golden Retrievers trace their history back to Scotland.
For decades, apocryphal stories were floating around that the Golden Retriever was descended from Russian circus dogs. This theory was debunked when the records of Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness, Scotland were released. In 1864, Lord Tweedmouth purchased a “yellow retriever” named Nous and bred him to a liver-colored Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The Golden Retrievers we know today are likely descended from Nous and Belle. Thank you, Lord Tweedmouth!
2. As sporting dogs, Golden Retrievers need lots of exercise.
These active members of the Sporting Group make poor couch potatoes. They’re always ready for action, whether its a game of fetch, hiking, swimming, or other exercise. They’re natural athletes that excel at a variety of sports.
3. They’re a hard-working breed.
Golden Retrievers are used for everything from hunting and tracking to rescue and service dog work. Despite that playful, sometimes goofy demeanor, they learn quickly and can master a multitude of skills, including how to perform as search and rescue dogs at the site of a disaster.
4. Golden Retrievers make top-notch therapy dogs.
Goldens are often employed as therapy dogs to soothe and calm people. Goldens seem to have reserves of empathy and unconditional love. There’s just something about a Golden that can calm and comfort anyone, from young children to elderly patients.
5. Past puppyhood, Golden Retrievers often stay young at heart.
You know all that exuberant puppy behavior? That tends to last longer in Golden Retrievers than other breeds. They mature slowly and can be playful and downright silly into adulthood.
6. Golden Retrievers love to eat.
And they’ll eat anything, from the dinner in their bowl to toys, paper, and crayons. If it’s out, it’s fair game. They also tend to overeat, so savvy owners know to limit treats, carefully measure out food, and feed them only at mealtimes.
7. Golden Retrievers are naturally mouthy.
Like other retrievers, Goldens are likely to carry something around everywhere they go, such as sticks, toys, clothing, or whatever else isn’t tied down.
8. When carrying objects, they’re known for their soft mouths.
All retrievers must have a mouth “soft” enough to pick up and hold game like ducks without damaging it. The Golden’s mouth is so soft, it’s said they can carry a raw egg in their mouth without cracking the shell.
9. Goldens shine in event competitions.
As intelligent, athletic dogs, Goldens are exceptional competitors in dog sports like Obedience, Agility, dock diving, and more.
10. Golden Retrievers are perennially popular pets.
The breed has been in the top ten list of most popular dog breeds in the United States for decades, most recently at number three out of 195. Their cousins, the Labrador Retriever, have held down the top spot for 28 years.
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