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Golden Retriever
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A~ Z index |
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Description... |
 A
strong and muscular dog with an athletic build. Goldens typically
stand about 55-60cms high at the shoulders and weigh about
30-40kgs. Their coat is golden of various shades and is long,
dense, and feathery.
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History...
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Developed in either England or Scotland around the
mid 1800's for the purpose of hunting. Bred for retrieving small
game and birds that were shot by the hunters.
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Traits...
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Games that involve retrieving something. Hunting
and the hunting type competitions are popular with golden owners
who enjoy these type of activities. Golden Retrievers also
excel in obedience, utility, flyball, Frisbee, and other types of
competitions. Goldens always love to just to be included in family
activities.
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Good aspects...
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 This
breed has a great temperament and a strong desire to please.
Usually very friendly, this dog loves to interact with people.
Generally gentle in nature, this dog tends to get along with kids
and other pets. Goldens tend to enjoy getting attention from
anyone. Golden retrievers need an active lifestyle and they love
to play games, especially those involving retrieving.
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Health...
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This was once a very healthy breed, but it's
increase in popularity has unfortunately allowed for questionable
breeding. This has allowed more health and genetic problems to
surface. Hip dysplasia is a major concern. Parents and
grandparents of your pup should be checked and cleared. Goldens
sometimes experience skin and coat problems, they also get
"hotspots" easily. Lymphatic and other cancers may be seen in
middle-aged and older golden retrievers. Hypothyroidism is another
problem this breed may experience.
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Be aware...
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Goldens are very oral and tend to chew a lot as
pups and adolescents. Their puppy hood is often long, sometimes up
to three years. This breed can have a high activity level, so
obedience training is strongly recommended to maintain basic
control. Golden retrievers need and want a lot of attention, they
are often demanding to receive this attention. For this reason,
they do not make a good pet for those who want a totally outside
dog. They are also not a good choice for families that are gone
for periods of time longer than 10 hours. Their hair is long and
it gets dirty easily, plus they shed a lot.
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Summary...
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This breed is so friendly that sometimes they may
even wonder off with strangers.
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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Further resources... |
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