Golden Retriever Dog Breed Information
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11 to 12 years
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Expensive *
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Star
Superstar
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Rare
Easy to get
Introduction
The best introduction a Golden Retriever could be nothing less than a big bundle of joy. This starry breed staring in movies like Air bud has been a favorite of both the movie stars and the movie watchers. Golden Retriever is a playful breed which loves playing around and being jolly. It’s a perfect breed to have around someone who is playful and high on energy. The name Golden Retriever comes from the fact that this breed loves retrieving things and playing the game of catch and it is Golden in color. This breed is also famous for being a helpful dog who is used for things like blind people assistance and being a guide dog.
This breed also has a fondness for water and loves playing in water. This breed is one of the most popular breeds across the world and this popularity is associated with its friendly nature and cool temperament. This breed is fond of exercise and should be made to exercise as much as possible. This breed is also of a strong build and has a beautiful coat. The origin and history of this dog can be traced back to Scotland around 1850s. This breed is one of the kindest pets that can be kept, its nature is a huge plus and its high spirits keeps the owners in high spirits all through the day.
How can anyone forget the adorable team of Golden Retrievers in the movie Air Bud? If you were awe-struck at how cute Golden Retriever puppies look then you will certainly be inspired by the many inspiring characteristics of these dogs when they are adults. Fondly called Goldens, these retriever dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. They are easy to train breed, love their families and their zeal to please their owners makes them one of the most perfect pets to have at home.
History
This overly friendly dog originated some time around 1860 in Scotland by Sir Dudley Marjoribanks or fondly known as Baron Tweedmouth, an ardent hunter. As the name suggests, there were specially breed to retrieve ducks and fowls during hunting.
There have been two theories about the origins of this majestic breed. The first theory is how this breed has come from some breed of Russian Circus dogs brought by some English Gentleman. They were taken to some place in Scotland and they used to work on an estate. People were impressed by this breed and they were bred with some sandy colored blood hound and hence this medium sized breed was produced.Lord Tweedmouth is said to be the originator was this breed and the other theory is that he found a yellow Retriever and bred him with a tweed water spaniel which resulted in the creation of this beauty that is known by the name of Golden Retriever. The reason for Lord Tweedmouth’s breeding of this breed was to develop a breed which could adapt and thrive in the Scottish weather. Nous and Belle were the two dogs which gave birth to this breed. The name of the firstborn of Nous and Belle was Crocus. The earliest known jobs that this breed used to do was be a gamekeeper. He was also a Gentleman’s game keeper. Kennel club first admitted this breed in the year 1911 and was called Retriever – Golden or Yellow. This breed is also famous for being a great hunting partner.
Baron Tweedmouth developed these majestic dogs by breeding the existing retrievers and water spaniels. After the hunter shot, it was expected that they would run to retrieve the fowl or duck from water and grassland to their owner. They were given soft mouth as an essential characteristic for this work, so they don't damage the hunted game.
Unique Aspects
Goldens are one of the best family pets to have, they are the lowest ranking barkers. So, no complaints from the neighbors about the noise level. They are one of the freshest smelling dogs as they do not suffer from bad breath, which is a common problem among dogs usually. They have been given an especially soft mouth that helps them to even hold a raw egg without breaking it, perfect to slightly hold the hunt in their mouth.
A near perfect dog, Goldens make excellent indoor pets, be it with children or elderly; or a house with other animals. Their exemplary obedience level and intelligence have won them many laurels over the years.
Fun Trivia
It is unlikely to find any other breed that has been as widely publicised in the media as the Golden Retriever dogs. So much so, that a lot of celebrities have selected this breed over others as a companion. They are also the face of Pedigree, arguably the most popular dry kibble brand in India.
Movie Characters
Air Bud is the first name that comes to mind when we talk about Golden Retrievers. After all, who can forget that cute little athlete of a dog. Some of the other movies that include Golden Retriever as the main character include Christmas Tail, Homeward Bound - An Incredible Journey, Golden Christmas and The Retrievers and these are just a few to name. In Bollywood, a Golden played a major role in the Hindi movie ‘Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic.’ Another Golden became highly popular on the TV show 'Big Boss' who came in as one of the house members in the season 2014.
Celebrity Golden Retrievers owners
Although the list of celebrities owning Golden Retrievers is inexhaustible, we can name some prominent celebrities who have enjoyed the companionship of these loveable pets.
Popular personality Pamela Anderson is known to have one and Jackie Chan owns two Golden Retrievers as well. Singers Ricky Martin and George Michael have one each. Former US President Ronald Reagan had a Golden as the 'First Dog'. Present Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Ashton Kutcher are proud owners of Golden Retrievers as well.
Closer home, actor Boman Irani has a Golden Retriever, Isha Koppikar has a Golden named Mowgli and Arshad Warsi has one named Betty Boo. Not to forget Zayed Khan, who has not one but two Goldens. And these are just a few of the confirmed names we can mention.
Vital Stats:
Dog Breed Group: Gundog
Height: 22-24 Inches
Weight: 24-36 kg
Life Span: 11 to 12 years
Pros
This breed is undoubtedly one of the most lovable breeds to have around. They love jumping around and playing with you. This is also a gentle breed who has a calm but playful temperament. It is also a breed which learns quickly, it can be trained fast and effectively. It is a smart breed, picking up things quickly. This breed is also great with kids, always playing with them and keeping spirits high. These guys love cuddling, they will cuddle up with their owners anytime and anywhere. This is a happy breed who likes keeping everyone around it, happy.
Cons
There is a lot of hair that comes with this breed, there is hair everywhere with this breed in the house. Dog hair will be a permanent accessory with this breed. Shedding can be a problem. This breed also needs a lot of love and affection, it is a constant attention seeker for attention and it will sulk if it doesn’t get love. It also loves chewing so finding your socks in its mouth can be a dampener. The playfulness can get a little out of hand.