The Golden Retriever, often referred to as the Goldie, or Golden, by its many admirers, is the ideal family pet. Goldies, often confused with Labradors, are usually distinguished by their different coats. However, their main difference is their ancestry; Goldies are from Scotland and Labradors are from Canada. The Golden Retriever is first and foremost a people-dog, which thrives off the affection and contact of its family members. Incredibly tolerable of children and their antics, the Goldie also embraces good relationships with other family pets from hamsters to horses, if introduced properly. This dog has an idyllically balanced personality, calm but alert, sensible but playful, neither hyperactive nor lethargic. The intelligent Golden Retriever is notoriously easy to train, making it an ideal assistance or working dog. They love to please, but unlike a border collie or springer spaniel, it does not have an insatiable appetite for work, and is therefore happy to relax by your feet at the end of the day.
Height: 20-24in, 51-61cm
Weight: 60-80lb, 27-36kg
Average Litter Size: 8
Life Expectancy: 14years
Good with Children: Exceptionally good
Kennel Club Classification: Gundog
Colour of a Golden Retriever
Any shade from light cream to deep gold is acceptable, however over recent years, lighter shades have become more popular in the UK. Darker gold colours still dominate in the (more…)