The Golden Retriever is undoubtedly one of the most famous dog breeds in the world. Their friendly demeanor and easygoing behaviour make them a great family pet. Golden Retrievers are also intelligent, making them highly capable working dogs.

Golden Retrievers are very good at tracking, sniffing, hunting and are also used by law enforcement agencies as service and therapy dogs. Retrievers are natural athletes and do well in obedience and agility training.

In this article, we will discuss the characteristics of the Golden Retrievers breed, their history, temperament, and cost of a Retriever puppy in Australia.

Backstory / History of the Golden Retriever

The origin of the Golden Retriever can be traced back to the Scottish Highlands. They were basically used as hunting dogs. The Scottish state farmer needed a dog that could retrieve birds on land and in water because their hunting grounds are full of marshes and ponds. With the invention of hunting weapons, the duty of Retrievers changed, and they bring birds from a distance.

In order to develop an ideal Retriever that can do all of these jobs, Dudley Marjoribanks, the Baron of Tweedmouth, crossed a yellow-colored Retriever with a Tweed water spaniel. The four puppies that come in the first generation are further used for breeding with lines including the Bloodhound, Irish Setter, Black Retrievers, and St. John’s Water Dog.

He kept track of the entire next generation and continues to work to develop a dog that is active and strong and also has a soft mouth. The Golden Retriever gained popularity in 1911 and was recognised by the Kennel Club of England.

In 1925, Golden Retrievers were officially recognised by the American Kennel Club. The Golden Retriever was one of three dogs that became an obedience champion in 1977.

What is the height weight and life span of Golden Retrievers?

The height of an adult male Golden Retriever is 23 to 24 inches (58 to 61 cm) and he weighs around 65 to 75 pounds (29 to 34 kg). Female Retrievers stand 21 to 22 inches (53 to 56 cm) tall and weigh around 55 to 65 pounds (25 to 29 kg). The average life expectancy of a Golden Retriever is around 10-12 years.

Are Golden Retrievers good family dogs?

Golden Retrievers are considered the perfect family dog, and for a good reason too. They are fun, friendly, intelligent, patient, and eager to please. However, they will get along well with an active family that can maintain their high energy levels. They are relatively easier to train, making them perfect dogs for first-time owners.

How much do Golden Retriever’s puppies cost in Australia?

The Golden Retriever puppy price range varies a lot. Generally, a puppy from a reputable breeder can cost you around $ 3000- $ 3500.

Why is a Golden Retriever a good pet?

The Golden Retriever is a loving, even-tempered, and intelligent breed of dog that makes them a perfect pet. They are kind to children and get along well with strangers. They stay with their family through thick and thin.

Is Golden Retriever dangerous? Are Golden Retrievers aggressive?

Golden Retrievers can be aggressive and dangerous, although they are one of the loving and gentle dog breeds. There are few things that can make Golden Retrievers aggressive that are abuse and neglect. Similarly, improper socialisation can also create aggression in Retrievers.

Are Golden Retrievers good home alone?

The Golden Retriever is one of those dog breeds that can be left home alone for a longer period of time. Typically, well-trained dog breeds can be left alone and because they can entertain themselves in your absence. They can live alone for almost 8 hours. Golden Retrievers are independent and eager learners and do not rely on their owner’s company throughout the day.

Do Golden Retrievers shed too much?

Golden Retrievers have beautiful coats and shed their hair almost year-round. They are moderate shedders, and you will find some hairs on clothing, furniture, and carpet. Their shedding generally increases in two seasons, in spring and fall.

If moderate shedding throughout the season can’t force you to get a vacuum, then surely their shedding season will push you to get one. In the shedding season, a lot of hairs will slip out of your Retriever’s coat, and an entirely new coat will grow in the summer and winter season, respectively.

It is not possible to know how much hair your Golden Retriever will lose because the amount of shedding varies greatly between individual dogs, but it is certain that you will need to regularly vacuum your home if you want to keep it clean.

How do I get my Golden Retriever to stop shedding?

There are few things you can do to prevent your Golden Retriever from shedding. First of all, it is important to follow a regular brushing schedule. This will help remove dead hair from their body before it falls to the floor, furniture, or carpet. Regular brushing will also help reduce tangles and matting. It is advisable to brush at least three times a week.

Second, make sure your dog’s coat stays strong and healthy. Therefore, feed your Retriever a balanced and healthy diet and do not feed him things that cause allergies or are full of chemicals, additives, and fillers.

Feed your Retriever a high protein diet that will keep his hair supple and healthy and prevent skin-related problems and shedding. You can also feed omega-3 oil supplements that can also help restore shine and strength to your dog’s coat.

Third, do not use chemical-containing shampoos for too long as they dry out their hair and skin and also cause hair loss and skin problems. Give your Retriever a bath only when his coat gets dirty, and only use the shampoo that is highly anti-allergic and gentle on your dog’s skin.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a cute and active breed of dog, you don’t need to wander around town because the Golden Retriever has all the qualities of an excellent breed of dog. They are great companion dogs.