The site was last updated on
24 Aug 2000
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Name of breed:
Golden Retriever
Class:
Gundog
Recognized:
AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI, KC (GB), KUSA
Size: Height at withers: dogs
56-61cm (22-24in), bitches 51-56cm (20-22in).
Weight:dogs 29.5-33.7kg (65-75lb) bitches 25-29.5kg (55-65lb).
Coat: Flat or wavy with good
feathering; dense, water-resistant undercoat.
Colors: Any shade of
golden or cream, but neither red nor mahogany; a few white hairs on chest only
are permissible.
Some controversy
surrounds the Golden Retriever origin. One tail tells that, in 1858, Sir Dudley
Marjoribanks (later Lord Tweedmouth) saw the troupe of eight Russian sheepdogs
performing in a circus in the seaside resort of Brighton in England. So
impressed with them was Sir Dudley that, following the show, he approached the
owner and offered to but two of them. The offer was decline on the grounds that
the circus act would be spoilt if the troupe were split up, whereupon Sir Dudley
agreed to but all eight dogs. According this tail, the troupe provided the
foundation stock of the Golden Retriever breed to which Bloodhound blood was
introduced. Although this story still persists, it is more generally believed
that the Golden Retriever was progeny of retriever/spaniel stock born on His
Lordship’s Scottish estate.
Character and
care
The Golden
Retriever ideally combines the role of sportsman’s companion and family pet,
being an excellent gundog, of sound temperament and gentle with children. This
beautiful animal also makes a popular show dog and works well in obedience
competitions. Requiring regular brushing and ample exercise, the Golden
Retriever is best suited to a country environment. It will, however, adapt to
suburban conditions provided that good walks and a garden are available.
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