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When you think of man’s best friend, do Golden Retrievers come to mind? They should! As with a variety of breeds, many are considered great dogs for families because of their personalities and behavior. However, there is something truly unique about Goldens compared to other dogs.
If you’re interested in getting a new dog for your family, or you simply want to learn more about Goldens, here are 25 facts you should know about Golden Retrievers – the most lovable dog breed for people of all types.
1. Golden Retrievers were bred to retrieve waterfowl shot by hunters. Do you think we got this job because we are good at playing duck, duck, goose? The world may never know!
2. Did you know that Golden Retrievers originated in Scotland from a man named Lord Tweedmouth? I don’t know about you, but I’m glad that isn’t my name (he probably wasn’t too happy with his name either)!
3. The reason why Golden Retrievers were given a waterfowl retrieving job was because of our soft mouths and the ability to return the birds undamaged. But that doesn’t mean we don’t lick our lips after we drop the waterfowl off.
4. We Golden Retrievers need lots of exercise (if you are a couch potato, you might want to find another breed of dog)! Whether you want to go swimming, hiking or a simple game of fetch, me and my buddies are always ready to let loose and use some energy. If left alone, we become bored and potentially destructive to items left unattended.
5. If you’re looking for a relaxed and chill dog, you might want to find another breed! As a Golden Retriever, our puppy years last longer than most. Get ready to be silly with us Goldens!
6. Is it time for dinner? Us Goldens are always hungry. Of course, we enjoy our typical meals and treats, but we also snack on anything left in the open…shoes, toys, paper. When in doubt, put items away from our reach!
7. Speaking of eating, Golden Retrievers also like to always have something in their mouths. If it isn’t tied down, you can expect us to carry it around. In fact, there’s a Golden with a world record of carrying five tennis balls in his mouth at once. I bet you can’t even carry one in your mouth!
8. Would you believe me if I told you that Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States? It’s true! We’ve been in the top 10 for decades. We can’t seem to beat out our Labrador Retriever cousins, though. Someday…
9. If you are looking for a competitive dog, you might as well choose a Golden like me! We perform exceptionally well in obedience and agility sports. Hopefully, you can keep up with us pups!
10. Although we are competitive, Goldens also make great therapy dogs. We can understand empathy, and we show love to everyone. Plus, the cuddles with us are unmatched. Choose a Golden to be your fur-ever therapy companion.
11. Goldens are hard-working! Regardless of our job duties, we take them very seriously. From therapy to retrieving waterfowl to man’s best friend, we are here to suit all of your dog needs. Just make sure you give us something to do (remember, we get bored easily).
12. While our name might insinuate we only come in one color, me and my Golden friends come in a variety of shades including light, dark and cream. You know you can’t just have one Golden – make sure you have a Golden rainbow! Keep in mind that black Goldens do not exist (it would be cool if they did).
13. Just like colors, there are also three different types of Golden Retrievers: English, American and Canadian. Don’t worry, we all bark in the same language, but some of us do have an accent based on where we are from.
14. Do you have other pets in your home? Have no fear! Us Goldens do well with other household pets (even the cat). If Shadow from Homeward Bound can get along with Chance and Sassy, I’m sure I could get along with any animal!
15. You know how ducks have webbed toes? So do Golden Retrievers! Goldens are closer to the duck family than we may have realized…let’s just hope we don’t start quacking any time soon. If our barks do turn into quacks, you gotta let us know, okay?
16. Although our webbed toes don’t have a ton of uses, it does help us with swimming. This makes us even better at wading through the water and catching waterfowl for our owners. Wait…do you think it’s called doggy paddle because of us Goldens liking to swim?! I gotta tell my friends about this!
17. You don’t have to worry about us Goldens keeping warm during the wintertime as we have two distinct coats of fur. Keep in mind while this is great for colder weather, it also means a lot more shedding! I hope you have a good vacuum nearby. If you’re allergic or sensitive to dog hair, I would recommend a dog that is hypoallergenic…or take an allergy pill.
18. When you train a Golden, make sure to use positive reinforcement. Our breed particularly likes to play games, and we are extremely motivated by food and treats (okay, what dog isn’t motivated by treats?). Think of it like this – treat us the way you want to be treated!
19. I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but Goldens are incredibly smart. No, really! A study found that we are the fourth smartest dog breed. If only there was a way to beat the Border Collie, Poodle and German Shepard. Is there a college for dogs? I think I better enroll.
20. Goldens are great seeing-eye dogs. More often than not, guide dogs are typically Golden Retrievers or a dog that’s a Golden Retriever mix. Seems like we’re a great breed for all sorts of people! Although, it’s eye-ronic that we experience eye issues of our own. Just as you go get your vision checked, make sure to take me to the vet to check on my eyesight.
21. As we get older, our fur will darken (it’s because we get wiser…just kidding). Make sure to keep this in mind when you’re choosing a Golden from a litter of pups. Our color does not affect our personality, though. Regardless of color, me and my Golden friends will make the perfect pet for your family.
22. There have been many dogs that have lived in the White House over the years, but it’s safe to say that Goldens were the best ones! Both President Ford and Reagan owned Goldens during their presidency. I wish I coulda gotten their autographs…the dogs, not the presidents.
23. Did you know that the first image ever uploaded to Instagram was of a Golden Retriever? We definitely are a photogenic breed! And we can’t help that we just want to be famous. Make sure to take lots of photos of us and share them with your friends on social media!
24. If you’re looking for a dog that will be around for an entire decade (and maybe longer), Goldens are a great option! On average, us Goldens live from 10 to 12 years. While some smaller breeds do live longer, we think quality is better than quantity.
25. Lastly, it’s sad to say, but me and my Golden friends are more prone to develop cancer than many other breeds. If a Golden is able to avoid cancer, it’s likely their life expectancy will greatly improve. Here’s a cute picture of my friends to make you feel better!
