The Sporting Group entry at Westminster’s 130th Annual Best in Show was the Golden Retriever. This is one of the most popular breeds in America!
DID YOU KNOW: A Golden Retriever is the star of the AIR BUD movies!
Goldens are great family dogs because they’re friendly, reliable, and trustworthy. They’re not generally known to be hostile towards people or other dogs, and they’re definitely not known to be timid or nervous. Golden Retrievers are fun, easygoing, loving dogs. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to teach children the appropriate way to interact with pets – no hitting, no tail pulling, no teasing.
Goldens are very good with obedience and agility training. They respond well to repetition and positive reinforcement. You may also see them working as therapy dogs or guide dogs for the blind! They are a very versatile breed, and very adaptable to different situations.
Golden Retrievers, like many other dogs, need exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks and interactive play sessions will keep your Golden happy. Goldens are not happy being left alone or outside for long periods of time – they are very people oriented and will be sad and lonely without you. A lonely Golden may bark or dig to entertain himself.
If you don’t want to be dealing with a twice-a-year shed and lots of hair around the house… you may not want a Golden. Their long hair can easily become matted if not groomed regularly. But brushing your dog is great bonding time!
Health problems you may have to face with a Golden include hip and elbow displaysia, a condition where the joints become deformed over time, causing the dog great pain and difficulty in movement. Goldens may also suffer from hereditary cataracts, eye and eyelid problems, and hereditary heart problems. If you acquire your Golden Retriever from a reputable breeder, they will be able to provide you with information about the parents and grandparents of the dog.
Golden Retrievers have an average life span of ten to twelve years.