Spotlight on the Golden Retriever

February 1, 2021

Are you one of the millions of Americans that has a Golden Retriever? If so, make a note to get Fido a special treat on February 3rd: it’s Golden Retriever Day! A local Plano, TX vet discusses this adorable pup below.

Basics

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds, and with good reason. These pups are friendly, loyal, obedient, hardworking, and smart. (They’re also absolutely adorable, but you probably knew that already.) Fido is currently ranked as the third most popular breed, out of 196. Goldens usually reach a height of around two feet. They can weigh up to 75 pounds, assuming they’re not allowed to become obese, which can be an issue with them. There are actually three different types of Goldens: English, Canadian, and American. It’s worth noting that Goldens are often mixed up with the Yellow Labrador Retriever. One way to tell the difference? The Yellow Lab has shorter fur.

History

Golden Retrievers first came bounding along around 1850, when the Lord Of Tweedmouth first developed the breed in Scotland. They were initially bred to help with bird hunting, which back then was both a sport and a way of gathering food. However, they weren’t recognized by the AKC until 1925, when they were allowed into the Sporting Dogs group.

Care

Golden Retrievers are fairly heavy shedders, so you’ll need to brush your pup regularly … unless you want to find fur everywhere. You’ll also need to give your canine buddy a high-quality dog food. They can be prone to being overweight, which may very well be at least in part due to the fact that they know they’re adorable, and are extremely talented beggars! Ask your vet for specific care tips.

Intelligence

The Golden is a very smart dog, and is actually ranked fourth in Stanley Coren’s book The Intelligence of Dogs. They are often found as working dogs, and are excellent service and therapy pups. However, proper training and socialization are both crucial.

Famous Fidos

There have been quite a few Golden Retriever celebrepups. The most famous one may very well be an adorable pooch named Tucker Budzyn. This furry, four-legged social media influencer has a whopping 3 million followers, and even got a mention from Oprah. Do you have questions about caring for a Golden Retriever? Contact us, your local Plano, TX veterinary clinic, today!