Dog of the Month - Babka!

The Golden Retriever is a sturdy, medium-large sized dog and a very popular family pet.
They originated in the late 1800’s in the Scottish Highlands and were developed by Lord Tweedmouth. He created the Golden Retriever by crossing the original yellow Flat Coated Retriever and the now extinct Tweed Water Spaniel. At a later stage he also crossed in the Bloodhound, Irish Setter and more Tweed Water Spaniel.
They were originally named the Golden Flat Coat but where later given the name of Golden Retriever. Today they are an ideal family pet but can also be used for hunting, tracking, obedience competitions or as guide and therapy dogs.


The Golden Retriever makes for such a great family pet because of their loveable nature and great charm. Being a very intelligent dog they are also easy to train. They are an extremely devoted dog and very loving towards their family. They thrive on pleasing their master so training from a young age is ideal to help create a well balance relationship.
They are a very friendly and highly sociable dog who loved to be surrounded by both people and other dogs. Although they are unlikely to attack they are a great watchdog and can be very loud when need be to alert you to a stranger approaching.
Golden Retriever’s are a highly energetic breed and they require plenty of physical exercise and stimulation as well mental stimulation. Without this they can become destructive or highly strung and behavioral issues can stem from this.
At a minimum they require a daily walk or run, making sure they walk beside or behind you, reminding them you are their pack leader. As a Retriever, they enjoy ball play and often enjoy carrying something in their mouth during the day.
Grooming is a daily requirement, brushing is needed to avoid matting and to remove any dead undercoat. They are an average shedder and only require a bath when necessary. They are prone to hip dysplasia and hot spots are also common as they enjoy the water.