Golden Retriever Dog Breed Information

The Golden Retriever is a popular dog breed that originate from Scotland. This well-known breed has medium size, friendly nature, and beautiful golden shiny coat. Originally, Golden Retrievers were bred to be working dogs, and they had to prove their skills by passing different tests. Today, they are one of the most popular family pets and are often seen in homes, dog shows, and even as service dogs for people in need. They are suitable for any situation, whether as family companions, in obedience dog competitions, or doing guard or security jobs. The Golden Retriever price in Pakistan is an average of 45,000 to 250,000, and it varies based on different factors like pedigree, age, breeder reputation. The price of Golden Retriever puppies from reputable breeders with pedigree will be higher than others.

The Golden Retriever breed’s history starts back in 1800s in Scotland. Sir Dudley Marjoribanks (later known as Baron Tweedmouth) started breeding Flat-coated Retrievers with Tweed Water Spaniels, adding some Red Setter, Labrador Retriever, and Bloodhound into the mix. The Kennel Club officially recognized the Golden Retriever in 1913, and since then, the breed has become beloved worldwide.

History

The Golden Retriever was developed in Scotland in the 1800s by Sir Dudley Marjoribanks at his estate, Guisachan. He carefully crossbred Flat-coated Retrievers with Tweed Water Spaniels, along with a few other British dog breeds. Before the publication of a detailed stud book in 1952, many stories were told about the breed’s origins.

1860

In the 1860s, Marjoribanks wanted to create the best retriever breed. He started by getting a yellow Flat-coated Retriever named Nous, born in June 1864. He was the only yellow puppy in a litter of black-colored pups. While it was rare, sometimes Flat-coated Retrievers could have yellow or golden-colored puppies. The pedigree of Nous became part of many stories about the Golden Retriever’s past. Some said he came from a Russian circus trainer, others said he was bought from a cobbler, or even a gypsy. The stud book later revealed that Nous was actually bred by Lord Chichester in Brighton.

1903

In 1903, the Kennel Club started recording Golden Retrievers, listing them alongside the Flat-coated Retrievers. The breed started to stand out in 1904, when a Golden Retriever won a field trial, and in 1908, the breed was first shown at dog shows. In 1911, a Golden Retriever breed club was formed in England, and the breed was officially called the “Yellow or Golden Retriever.” By 1913, the breed was listed separately from the Flat-coated Retriever, and in 1920, the “Yellow or” was removed, making it simply the Golden Retriever.

1952

In 1952, Marjoribanks’s great-nephew, Giles Fox-Strangways, teamed up with Elma Stonex to study his records. Their research was published in 1960, proving the breed’s true history and correcting the rumors about its Russian roots. The stud book, covering records from 1868 to 1890, is now stored at the Kennel Club library in London. In the early days, the breed was known as the “Flat-coated Retriever, Golden.” It was first considered a variety of the Flat-coated Retriever. 

Winifred Charlesworth, a key supporter of the breed, played a major role in forming the breed club and getting official recognition from the Kennel Club. She created the first breed standard, which is still used today with only minor changes. She also bred the first Golden Retriever Show Champion and helped popularize the breed in dog shows and hunting circles.

World War I

After World War I, Golden Retrievers gains more popularity. In the 1920s and 1930s, this dog breed spread across Western countries. The Canadian Kennel Club recognized it in 1927, and the American Kennel Club followed in 1932. The breed was also registered in France in 1934 and Australia in 1937. Unlike many other British dog breeds, the Golden Retriever didn’t suffer during World War II, thanks to breeding programs worldwide. Since the 1940s, the breed’s popularity has continued to grow, and it remains one of the most well-known and frequently registered dog breeds today.

Golden Retriever Care

when caring a pet, specially a Golden Retriever, it is important to focus on their overall health care, physical, mental, and emotional well being. To keep their sporting ability alive, regular exercise is mandatory to keep these active and energetic dogs healthy & happy. Daily walks, playtime and fun activities make them feel special and keep them attached, which leads to strong bonding and prevent boredom. The Golden Retriever is an intelligent breed which is eager to learn and show their skills, training sessions, puzzle toys, and canine sports activities like obedience in daily routine keep their mind sharp. 

A nutritious diet is very important for all pets, according to their age, size, and activity level is also crucial to maintain their overall health. Concern your veterinarian for feeding guidelines and breeds specific health concerns, such as hip dysplasia or heart issues that are common in Golden Retriever. 

 Grooming is also part of the Golden Retriever care. Their dense double coat requires brushing and bath, ideally 2-3 times a week. In the seasonal shedding periods, daily brushing can help manage their heavy shedding. Bathing is not necessary every week, should be done only when needed, usually every 6-8 weeks or when they got dirty. Routine care like nail trims, ear cleaning, ear cleaning includes regular care to prevent infections, and dental hygiene to avoid plaque buildup.

Golden Retriever Health Issues

Golden Retrievers live, on average, 10-12 years, and they are generally healthy dogs. However, some Golden Retrievers may face health problems due to poor breeding.

You can learn more about your dog’s health by testing for over 230 genetic health risks with a dog DNA test. When adopting a Golden Retriever, it’s important to do your research and find a trusted breeder to help avoid health problems.

Hot Spots

Hot spots are areas on a dog’s skin that become inflamed and infected, often from bacteria or yeast. They usually happen in dogs that scratch, chew, or lick too much, which often comes from allergies.

For dogs with allergies, the skin barrier becomes weak. This causes the normal bacteria on the skin to grow out of control, leading to inflammation and infection. A hot spot can develop quickly, causing hair loss, redness, and raw, moist skin that might ooze, crust, or form scabs.

If your Golden has a hot spot, take them to the vet. Hot spots can be treated with medicine and by managing the cause of the infection.

Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy)

Atopic dermatitis, also called atopy, is an itchy, swollen skin and ear condition that Golden Retrievers are prone to. It’s caused by allergens like pollen, grass, dust mites, dander, and mold.

Symptoms usually start between the ages of 2 and 6, so regular vet visits are important to check your dog’s skin health.

Golden Retrievers with atopy may scratch, chew, or lick themselves a lot. This can lead to hair loss, thickened skin, ear infections, or rashes.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to symptoms like:

• Unexplained weight gain
• Less energy
• Ear and skin infections that keep coming back
• Thinning fur
• Dry, flaky skin

Golden Retrievers are more likely to get hypothyroidism, especially when they reach middle age. It can be treated with medicine for the rest of their lives.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together properly, causing pain and arthritis. It can affect one or both hips.

Signs include:

• Lameness
• Difficulty getting up from lying down
• A “bunny-hopping” run
• Not wanting to run, jump, or go up and down stairs
• Sitting with the leg sticking out to the side

Good Golden Retriever breeders make sure their dogs are tested for hip dysplasia. It’s important to buy a puppy from a breeder who has had their dogs tested using the PennHIP method. Hip dysplasia can be treated by managing weight, changing their diet, giving joint supplements, and using certain medications. In serious cases, surgery might be needed.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a group of inherited conditions that cause joint problems in the elbow. This leads to arthritis over time. The condition can be diagnosed with X-rays or CT scans and treated with injections, surgery, joint supplements, or pain medications.

Eye Conditions

Golden Retrievers can have several eye problems, such as:

Pigmentary Uveitis: This is when brown or black cysts form on the eye, usually in dogs older than 5 years. These cysts are usually harmless, but over time, they can lead to cataracts and glaucoma. Treatment involves eye drops or medicine.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a disease where the retina slowly breaks down, causing blindness. While there is no cure for PRA, blind Goldens can still live happy, healthy lives with the right care.

Cancers

Golden Retrievers can also get certain types of cancer, including:

Lymphoma/Lymphosarcoma: This cancer starts in the lymph nodes and can spread to other organs. It is common in Golden Retrievers, and the lymph nodes in the neck, behind the knees, and in the thighs often swell.

Hemangiosarcoma (HSA): This cancer starts in the spleen, liver, or heart and can form tumors that fill with blood. If these tumors burst, they can cause serious bleeding inside the body. This is a life-threatening emergency.

Heart Problems

Subaortic Valvular Stenosis (SAS) is a heart problem that Golden Retrievers inherit from their parents. It happens when tissue forms in the heart, blocking blood flow. Over time, this can cause heart damage.

Puppies with SAS often have a heart murmur that a vet can hear during a check-up. Dogs with mild or moderate SAS may not show any symptoms, but severe SAS can make them very tired, cause them to collapse, or even lead to sudden death after light exercise. Good breeding practices help prevent this condition.

How to Feed a Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers, when fully grown, do best with two meals a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. However, Golden Retriever puppies need to eat more often—about three or four times a day, always at regular times.

Golden Retrievers love their food, so using a slow feeder bowl or a food puzzle can help them eat slower. This helps prevent stomach problems and keeps them busy while eating. If your Golden eats too fast, it can lead to issues like vomiting.

Petpawtner have a huge variety for all pets, but there is a premium and high quality range in dog food available. Visit our site and shop online the best and suitable dog food for you loving dogs.

How Much to Feed a Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever puppies need special food made for large-breed puppies before they turn one year old. This food gives them the right balance of nutrients. Check the feeding guidelines on the back of the food bag, which are based on your puppy’s age and expected size.

It’s important to regularly check your puppy’s weight and health with your vet to make sure they’re growing at a good pace. Growing too fast can lead to joint problems, which is common in large dog breeds like Golden Retrievers.

Once your Golden Retriever is a year old, switch to adult large-breed dog food with fewer calories. This helps avoid weight gain. For the best advice on how much to feed your dog, ask your vet to help keep them at a healthy weight.

Popular Dog Breed in Pakistan

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds, not just around the world but also in Pakistan. Known for their friendly and loving nature, they make great pets for families. By following these feeding tips, you can keep your Golden Retriever healthy and happy. 

Petpawtner have written a complete guide on Best Dog Breeds in Pakistan, read and take a decision to adopt a beautiful pet for you home.

FAQ

Is a Golden Retriever a good family dog?

Golden Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for families. They are friendly, loving, and even though they can get excited sometimes, they know how to behave around kids. Golden Retrievers love being around people and can fit into almost any family, whether or not there are children already at home. This makes them a popular dog breed in many places, including Pakistan.

What does the phrase “Golden Retriever” mean?

According to the Urban Dictionary, a Golden Retriever is a partner who is easygoing and helps make a relationship happy and fulfilling. This is why people say it’s like having a Golden Retriever as a partner.

What are 5 facts about Golden Retrievers?

• Golden Retrievers originated in Scotland
• There lifespan is 12 to 14 years
• Golden Retrievers are best as family dogs
• They are easy to train
• Golden Retrievers breeds has 3 colors, golden – dark golden – light golden

Which dog is best for home?

• Golden Retriever
• Labrador
• German Shepherd
• Beagle
• Pug
• Rottweiler
• Great Dane

Petpawtner have written a complete guide on Best Dogs in Pakistan.

Who is the tallest dog?

Reggie is a 7-year-old Great Dane who holds the Guinness World Record for the tallest living dog. He stands an amazing 3 feet 3 inches tall at his shoulder. On the other hand, Pearl is a 4-year-old Chihuahua who is very different from Reggie. She is only 3.59 inches tall and holds the record for the shortest living dog.

How many Golden Retriever official colors?

The Golden Retriever comes in three officially recognized colors.

• Dark Golden
• Golden
• Light Golden

What is the safest dog to own?

There are 5 safest breeds in Pakistan.

1. Labrador Retriever
2. Golden Retriever
3. Border Collie
4. Irish Setter
5. Beagle

Who is No. 1 dog?

Labrador Retrievers (commonly known as Labradors) are kind, cute, and easy to love. They are one of the most popular dog breeds in Pakistan. Labradors are fun loving, friendly, and full of love for everyone in the family. read more

What are the most common problems with Golden Retrievers?

Golden Retrievers can have some common health problems like hip trouble, cancer, and issues with their thyroid or heart. Some may also have seizures. They can get skin problems like hot spots, and some may have eye problems like cataracts or trouble seeing over time. Taking your dog to the vet regularly can help find these problems early.