Variety Overview
English Name: Golden Retriever
Aliases: Jinmao, Golden Retriever (Jinmao Xunhui Liequan), Golden Hunter (Huangjin Liequan), Golden Retriever (Huangjin Shiliequan)
Origin: United Kingdom
Intelligence Rank: 4th place
Size: Large breed
Price Range: Above $220
Shoulder Height: 55-61 cm (21.6-24 inches)
Weight Range: 27-34 kg (59.5-75 lbs)
Coat Length: Long-haired
Roles/Functions: Pet dog, retriever, hunting dog, guide dog
Development Origin
The Golden Retriever originated in the 19th century, bred by a Scottish nobleman who used a small Newfoundland dog, an Irish Setter, and an extinct breed of mottled water spaniel to create this golden long-haired retriever. Over time, this breed became widely recognized as the Golden Retriever we know today. These dogs were particularly suited for retrieving game due to their gentle mouths when carrying items. Known for their strong swimming abilities, Golden Retrievers can fetch game from the water for their owners. Additionally, they are loyal and friendly family pets and can be trained to become outstanding guide dogs.
Golden Retrievers are known for their strong build and eagerness to work. They excel at retrieving waterfowl and can swim in various weather conditions. Highly favored by hunters, they are primarily kept as family pets and are categorized as large dogs.
Morphological Features and Identification
The Golden Retriever is a large breed of dog, well-loved for its friendly, intelligent, and loyal nature. Here are the main physical characteristics and identification methods for Golden Retrievers:
- Size: Adult Golden Retrievers typically stand between 55-61 cm (21.6-24 inches) at the shoulder and weigh between 25-34 kg (55-75 lbs).
- Coat: They have a dense double coat with a long, smooth outer layer and a soft, water-resistant undercoat. The coat color usually ranges from golden yellow to light or dark gold.
- Head: Their heads are broad with medium-sized ears set slightly below eye level. Eyes are deep brown or medium brown with a gentle expression.
- Tail: The tail is long and thick, usually carried level or slightly raised.
- Gait: Their movement is light, smooth, and powerful.
Features and Disposition
Physically robust and powerful, with golden fur that features an elastic outer coat and a waterproof undercoat. It possesses a keen sense of smell and is alert and responsible, making it excellent at detecting and tracking prey. Besides being a family pet, this breed is also popular as a show dog, hunting companion, drug detection dog, and guide for the blind. Known for its noble temperament and calm demeanor, it does have some minor issues such as fur allergies, drooling, and occasional irritability.
History and Heritage
Records show that the Golden Retriever dates back to the 18th century. It may have been bred from shiny-coated Flat-Coated Retrievers and now-extinct Water Spaniels, or it could be a descendant of Long-Eared Water Spaniels and Newfoundland dogs. The breed is known for its exceptional water retrieving skills.