The History of the Golden Retriever ...

Golden Retrievers were "developed" in Britain during the 1800's.  Believed to be included in the formation of the Golden Retriever breed are the now extinct Tweed Water Spaniel, the Newfoundland, the Irish Setter and a variety of water spaniels.  Lord Tweedmouth takes credit for the development of the Golden Retriever.  On his estate, hear Invesness, Scotland, Lord Tweedmouth wished to develop a dog which was loyal and kind, yet spirited and energetic, with a love for the water and an ability to retrieve.  His early vision of a Golden Retriever was for a dog that would have great enthusiasm for retrieving waterfowl.

Once developed, early Golden Retrievers were shown in England as Flat-Coated Retrievers under the variety Golden.  Over time the Golden Retriever made it's way to North America, brought back by people visiting Britain.  It is believed that Golden Retrievers came to North America in the  1890's, however, Golden Retrievers were not "exhibited" in dogshows until the 1920's.  Golden Retrievers, in the early years were used primarily in hunting.  Over time, as the breed gained popularity, the Golden Retriever became a valued family companion, a hunting companion, and a show dog.

Early golden retrievers ranged from medium gold to dark gold to a "copper" gold.  As the golden retriever developed and became more popular in the showring, the lighter colours, seen in todays Golden Retrievers, emerged.  Today Golden Retrievers range from cream to dark gold with the lighter colours seemingly more preferred by many than the darker colours of the original Golden Retrievers.

Golden Retrievers today are certainly known for their beauty.  They are a dog with a kindly expression, pretty dark eyes, and a wagging tail.  Golden Retrievers are also known for their temperament.  A well bred Golden Retriever is gentle, kind, loving, loyal, happy, confident and outgoing.  Neither lazy nor hyper, today's golden retrievers blend easily into many family settings.  But, despite the beauty and the gentleness, Golden Retriever excel at obedience as well.  Golden Retrievers strive to please their owners and, once taught what the owner desires, the Golden Retriever will astound you with their willingness to please.  It is of interest to note that the first three dogs to achieve their A.K.C. Obedience Trial Championships were Golden Retrievers.