
The Golden Retriever is a medium-sized dog breed from Scotland. It is known for its friendly and loving nature, as well as its beautiful golden coat. This breed works well in many roles and must pass a working trial for registration. Golden Retrievers are popular pets and rank among the most registered breeds in several Western countries. Some also compete in dog shows, obedience trials, or serve as guide dogs.
Sir Dudley Marjoribanks created the Golden Retriever at his estate, Guisachan, in the late 1800s. He crossbred Flat-coated Retrievers with Tweed Water Spaniels, and later included some Red Setter, Labrador Retriever, and Bloodhound genes. The breed was recognized by the Kennel Club in 1913 and spread to many parts of the world during the interwar years.
According to the Kennel Club standard, male Golden Retrievers stand between 56 to 61 centimeters tall, while females stand from 51 to 56 centimeters. Healthy adults typically weigh between 25 and 34 kilograms.
Golden Retrievers have broad heads with a well-defined stop, dark eyes that are well spaced, wide muzzles, large black noses, and droopy flews. Their ears are of moderate size, set high, and hang down slightly. They have strong, long necks with loose skin, well laid-back shoulders, and deep chests with well-rounded ribs. Their backs are usually level, and their long, straight tails are carried flat, roughly in line with their backs. Their front legs are straight and strong, while their powerful hind legs have well-bent stifles and muscular thighs. Their feet resemble those of a cat.
The Golden Retriever’s double coat is a key feature. The outer coat is long, flat, or wavy with good feathering on the forelegs, while the undercoat is dense and keeps them warm in cold weather. Their coat can be cream, yellow, or gold and often gets lighter as they age. The Kennel Club standard does not allow red or mahogany coats, but allows a few white hairs on the chest.
Initially, only yellow or golden dogs were recognized, but in 1936 the standard changed to include cream-colored dogs as well. Cream, which can appear almost white today, is now the most common color and is often preferred in dog shows. Golden Retrievers bred for shows usually have longer and finer coats than those bred for working as gundogs.