The Golden Retriever

Origin:
The Golden Retriever was developed by a Lord in the Scottish Highlands in the late 1800s. They were created by cross breeding a yellow Flat Coated Retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel, the latter now being extinct. Later in time he bred in the Bloodhound and the Irish Setter, naming the new breed the ‘Golden Flat Coat.’ It’s unsure at what time their name changed to Golden Retriever. They are now one of the most popular breeds around the world.
 
Purpose:
As their name would suggest, they were used for retrieving. They were used for collecting and returning birds, mostly water birds for hunters. They are confident in retrieval both on land and in the water.   

Coat care:
The Golden Retriever’s beautiful coat requires regular care, to avoid matting, hot spots and to remove any debris they may collect on their adventures. Their long, double coat will require daily brushing. They will require bathing only as needed and a strip out from a professional can help throughout the warmer months too.  

Health & Temperament:
The Golden Retriever is a well loved family pet. They are fantastic as companions and also thrive in activities such a hunting, tracking, obedience as well as sniffer dogs and service/assistance dogs.  As with any dog, they thrive well with structure and rules and still need to be exposed to new situations, people and other animals from a young age, to avoid any anxious or nervous behaviours.
They are an active breed of dog, loving to get out and play with the family. Daily walks are a minimum, they will also enjoy a run in an open area or keeping up beside a runner or a bike. They are an easy to train dog and with the right exercise for their body and mind are a very happy, easy-going, laid-back dog.
The breed is unfortunately prone to cancer. They can suffer from skin allergies, hip dysplasia, heart problems and eye issues. Due to their popularity, it’s important to do your research into breeding parents before purchasing a puppy, to avoid any serious hereditary health issues.