According to 2005 statistics from the AKC (American Kennel Club), Golden Retrievers were the second most popular dog breed. Golden retrievers have been popular ever since they were recognized as a breed. There are many reasons. Find out why Golden Retrievers are so beloved.

Golden Retrievers originated in Scotland. They were bred to be retrievers for bird hunters. There are varying opinions on which breeds were crossed to develop the Golden Retriever. The majority of experts believe that Golden Retrievers were originally crossed with a Tweed Water Spaniel and a yellow colored retriever dog breed.

If you don't know how to recognize a Golden Retriever, you don't have to look far. Some famous Golden Retrievers include Duke from Bush's Beans commercials, Shadow from the "Homeward Bound" movies, "Air Bud" movies, "You've Got Mail" movie, and Comet from television's "Full House".

There are two types of Golden Retrievers- American and English. Their only difference is in their appearance. English Golden Retrievers have a lighter yellow coat, sometimes almost white. They are broader than American Golden Retrievers, but shorter. American Golden Retrievers more resemble hunting dogs with their slim builds and long, lanky legs. The American Golden Retriever's coat is darker than the English, sometimes almost red.

Golden Retrievers get to their full size and weight at around age two. They are about two feet high at the shoulders or a little shorter. The average weight for a Golden Retriever is about seventy pounds.

Besides being popular pets, Golden Retrievers are useful in many ways. Golden Retrievers are excellent gun dogs for hunting, and of course they are used for retrieving. The breed is used for guide dogs for the blind, in search and rescue missions, and as therapy dogs. Golden Retrievers also score very well in obedience and agility contests.

If you want to base your decision on temperament when picking a breed, it's hard to beat a Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers are least likely to bite than virtually any other breed. They are extremely patient dogs. Golden Retrievers love humans, and are very easygoing with children. This dog breed is very friendly, playful, and intelligent.

Golden Retrievers are a handful when they are puppies. Be prepared to give them lots of attention. For that matter, Golden Retrievers require lots of attention and companionship throughout their lives in order to be happy. They remain active and playful throughout their adulthood. Because of their breeding bloodlines, Golden Retrievers love two things- retrieving and water. The combination of a Frisbee and a day at the beach is a Golden Retriever's idea of heaven.

Golden Retrievers are a low maintenance breed compared to most dog breeds. However, Golden Retrievers need lots of daily exercise. They are very active dogs. Preferably, they should be exercised at least twice a day for thirty minutes or longer. Their coat needs to be brushed daily.

If you are thinking about buying a Golden Retriever, there are some health problems of which you should be aware. If buying from a breeder, ask around and find one with a solid reputation. Have the parents examined for common health problems that are present in the breed.

Hip dysplasia is very common in Golden Retrievers. Be sure to have the parents examined for hip disease. Other common diseases and health problems in Golden Retrievers are cancer, cataracts, heart disease, and hot spots.

Golden Retrievers have always been, and probably always will be, popular dogs. They are one of the best choices for a family dog. If you decide to get a Golden Retriever, please consider one of the volunteer rescue organizations. There are lots of great Golden Retrievers that desperately need a home.

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