Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a breed originating from Scotland, where it was bred for hunting and tracking. They are very attractive dogs thanks to their golden coat. In addition, they are active, affectionate and complacent dogs.

General details

The breed is of medium size, weighing between 20 and 36 kilograms and varying in height from 50 to 60 centimeters. Life expectancy is usually 10 to 12 years. The Golden Retriever belongs to Group 8 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which includes hunting retrievers.

Breed history in brief

The origins of the Golden Retriever can be traced back to Scotland in the 19th century. They were initially bred as hunting and tracking dogs. The objective of creating this breed was to obtain an animal adapted to the rainy climate and the rugged Scottish terrain. To do this, they crossed many dogs of different breeds until they came up with the Golden Retriever we know today. Today this breed is one of the most popular as a family dog due to its sociable character and intelligence. They are also used and trained as guide, assistance, search and rescue dogs.

Breed characteristics

Golden Retrievers are powerful dogs, with strong, balanced bodies. Their eyes are dark brown and set wide apart, and the ears are medium sized and set at eye level. Their tail is carried at the level of the back, without curling at the tip. The dogs have a medium to long coat with an undercoat that helps the dogs with thermoregulation. The outer coat is wavy and water resistant. Temperamentally they are affectionate, very sociable and playful dogs, which makes them a good breed of dog for a family. They are a calm and normally easy-going breed. These dogs need a lot of attention, companionship and also exercise and play.

Common health problems

The Golden Retriever, with optimal care and attention, can enjoy a long healthy life, although it shows a predisposition to suffer from certain health problems. Among the most common diseases or disorders are muscular dystrophy, progressive retinal atrophy, sensory ataxic neuropathy, congenital myasthenic syndrome, dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and degenerative myelopathy. In addition to the above conditions, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends a cardiac and ocular screening examination, as well as a series of tests to assess for elbow and hip dysplasia.