The Golden Retriever

Brioche

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Origin:
The Golden Retriever was developed in the late 1800s in the Scottish Highlands. The breed is the result of crossbreeding a yellow Flat-Coated Retriever, Bloodhound, Irish Setter, and the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel. It was originally developed by Lord Tweedmouth and was first known as the Golden Flat-Coat. The name was changed to Golden Retriever in 1920.
Purpose:
The Golden Retriever was originally bred as a gun and water retrieving dog to assist hunters in retrieving waterfowl.
Today, they are widely used as exceptional assistance dogs in many areas to support humans. They are also highly effective working dogs, particularly in tracking and narcotics detection.
Coat Care:
The stunning double coat of the Golden Retriever requires daily brushing to prevent matting and to remove any sticks or debris. Their dense undercoat benefits from a firm brush, especially during shedding seasons. Particular attention should be paid to the ears and the backs of the legs to avoid tangles.
They only need to be bathed when necessary. As a water-loving breed, they will seize any opportunity to swim, so it's important to ensure their coat is thoroughly dried after water play to prevent hotspots.
Health & Temperament:
The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular companion breeds in the world—and for good reason! This lovable and cheerful breed is hard not to adore. When well socialised and raised with consistent boundaries, Golden Retrievers are affectionate with everyone—from adults and children to other dogs, cats, and small household pets.
They thrive on being part of the family and enjoy daily walks. Without sufficient mental and physical stimulation, they can become bored and potentially destructive. They also love to play fetch endlessly!
Golden Retrievers are prone to weight gain, so their diet and exercise routines must be managed carefully.
​Though incredibly loving, they also make excellent watchdogs and will alert their families to any perceived threats.
Unfortunately, the breed is prone to certain health issues, especially cancer—most notably mast cell tumours. It’s essential to research the health history of breeding parents before purchasing a puppy. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection of health concerns. Other conditions to be aware of include hip dysplasia, heart problems, eye defects, and skin allergies.
The average lifespan of a Golden Retriever is 10–12 years.