Did you know that Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in America? They make great pets because they are loyal, friendly, and good with children. Golden Retrievers were originally bred as hunting dogs, but they are primarily used as family pets today. We wanted to share some fun facts about these fantastic animals in honor of National Golden Retriever Day!
History of the Golden Retriever
When common hunting dogs of the mid-19th century were proving insufficient for retrieving fallen game over land and water, a want for a new breed emerged. Because guns had improved by the early 1800s, Scottish hunters were now shooting from much greater distances over marshy swampland and losing or injuring their birds. They wanted a dog with a soft mouth and excellent fetching abilities. They bred their best water spaniels with retrievers, and low and behold, the Golden Retriever!
Outgoing and Loving Personalities
Goldens make great family pets! They are super friendly, intelligent, and good with children. They are known for their warm, loving, and outgoing personalities. They are pack-oriented dogs and feel most comfortable in groups and families. Goldens are loyal and trusting throughout their lives!
Watch this beauty as we respect Bretagne, the last surviving rescue dog of the Twin Towers, search and rescue.
They need their exercise
Although Golden Retrievers are excellent family dogs, they require a lot of exercise. If you decide to bring home a Golden, you need to be prepared to take your dog on long walks or runs every day.
They love to fetch and swim and become very attached to their families. Watch this fantastic video as Kiera helped her owner rescue two Goldens that fell in a frozen lake. Goldens are genuinely a one-of-a-kind breed.
Highly Trainable
Goldens make great service dogs because they are trainable, patient, and extremely gentle. They’re so popular because they’re so easy to train, which makes them perfect for novice dog owners.
Their never-ending love and loyalty make them the perfect companion for people in need of support. Golden Retrievers are very intelligent and can concentrate on their tasks. They are not easily distracted or drawn away from their duties. This devoted and loyal dog is suited to a life of service and support. Golden Retrievers are tireless workers, love routines, and are patient, making them great family dogs! Goldens are devoted companion dogs and are always ready, willing, and able in all kinds of situations.
Grooming
Golden Retrievers have a thick double coat of fur that protects them from cold weather. Grooming is essential for Goldens, as they tend to shed a lot of hair because it is so thick. AKC suggests grooming/brushing them twice a month, at least.
Golden Retrievers have webbed feet that help them swim, acting almost like flippers. Thin webs of skin connect the “toes” on their paws. This helps Goldens move through the water quickly and efficiently. So you must keep their nails trimmed and their feet groomed.
Facts of the Golden Retriever
- Golden Retrievers typically live for 10-12 years
- They come in a variety of colors, including blonde, light brown, and dark/reddish brown
- They typically weigh between 55-75 pounds
- Average height is between 21 and 24 inches tall
February 3rd is National Golden Retriever Day, and what better way to celebrate these lovable dogs than by learning a little bit more about them. Goldens are one of the most popular dog breeds globally for a good reason – they’re friendly, intelligent, and great with children. They also make wonderful service dogs because they are so patient and gentle. Golden Retrievers require a lot of exercise, so be prepared to take your dog on long walks or runs every day. They love to fetch and swim and often become very attached to their families. Celebrate National Golden Retriever Day by spending time with your furry friend – go for a walk, play some fetch, or give them lots of love!
Share your Golden Retrievers with us so we can celebrate along with you! Tag us @vitalpetlife and use the hashtag #goldenretrieverday
