The Different Types of Golden Retrievers

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The Golden Retriever is among the most popular dog breeds in America. They are exceptional at fieldwork and hunting, in search-and-rescue, and as guides for blind people. Not only that, but Golden Retrievers also enjoy competitive events like obedience.

These canines have a muscular body, and they are famous for their lustrous gold coat. The broad head, short ears, intelligent eyes, and straight muzzle are the breed’s hallmark.

Golden Retrievers move with a smooth gait and carry their feathery tail with a merry action. These furry friends are easy to train and make a great pet for families. The males in this breed can stand up to 24” inches at the shoulder while females stand as high as 22.5” at the shoulder. Their weight is up to 75 pounds, and the Golden Retriever lifespan is 10 to 12 years.

There is a bit of confusion about the types of Golden Retrievers. Some people think there is only one breed of Golden Retriever. Not only that, but there is also confusion about the differences in color and characteristics of Golden Retrieves. 

In this post, we will talk about Golden Retriever types and show you how they are different from each other.

breeds of golden retrievers

History of Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers were bred in Scotland back in the 19th century. These canines were bred to retrieve during hunts back in the old days. The trait hasn’t changed over time, which is why Golden Retrievers are naturally good at retrieving and hunting games.

In order to create this canine, the yellow-colored retriever was crossed with the Tweed Water Spaniel, which is now extinct. The resulting canine later gave birth to four puppies.

Each was crossed with another dog breed like an Irish Setter. This is how a new breed of dog – the Golden Retriever – was created. Today, these canines are extremely popular in the country. You are very likely to see one when you go for a stroll around the neighborhood.

The breed is known for its high intelligence and obedience. Thus, people often employ the Golden Retriever as hunting dogs or guide dogs.

When living with their owners, Goldens are energetic and love playing outdoors. Golden Retrievers are great with kids, which makes them a great pet for families.

While the Golden is energetic, she is also gentle and sensitive. Therefore, many people love to keep Golden Retrievers as pets since the breed gets along well with all members of the family.

english golden retrievers

Types of Golden Retrievers

Some people think that Golden Retrievers don’t come in different types. This isn’t the case. Golden Retrievers do vary by type.

Generally, there are three types of Golden Retrievers – American Golden Retrievers, British Golden Retrievers, and Canadian Golden Retrievers.

There aren’t major differences between these breeds of Golden Retrievers.

The differences are mostly physical and have no effect on the health and temperament of the dog.

American Golden Retrievers

American Golden Retrievers are the most common and popular type of Golden Retrievers. Their coats are typically dark golden and darker than their British counterparts.

However, they are just as wavy, silky, and long. The eyes of the American Golden Retrievers are lighter, and they are more triangular-shaped than round.

British (English) Golden Retrievers

Also called English Golden Retrievers, British Golden Retrievers have long, feathery cream coats.

The main difference between the British Golden Retriever and the American Golden Retriever is their physical build. The former has more powerful forequarters and a broader skull.

The outer coat of the British Golden Retriever is a little short than that of their American cousin. So shedding of their outer coat would generate fewer hair piles.

Canadian Golden Retrievers

Canadian Golden Retrievers look a little different from the other two varieties. Their hair is generally thinner and shorter but not as feathery as those of American Golden Retrievers or English Golden Retrievers.

Canadian Golden Retrievers stand taller than both varieties mentioned above. The temperament of this canine is roughly similar to that of the American Golden Retriever and the English Golden Retriever.

Temperament of Golden Retrievers

All breeds of Golden Retrievers have lovely personalities. They are biddable, cheerful, devoted, and intelligent companions.

These canines are adoring to their own families and also happy to greet strangers and friends into the house. This is why they might not make good guard dogs.

Socialization is important to keep your Golden Retriever feeling confident around new people and pets.

Personality of Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers get along well with people and are also good with children. However, young pups may accidentally hurt a child by jumping up, which is why it is important to keep a Golden supervised around little children.

Make sure to keep a dog crate for your Golden Retriever and dedicate a place in your home where he can retreat to. This will help you maintain a healthy relationship with your pet.

The Golden Retriever is easy to train and responds well to commands. However, training should begin at an early age to ensure that your furry friend behaves well when he grows up.

Exercise Needs of a Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are very athletic and intelligent dogs. As such, they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy at home. Advanced agility, retrieving, and obedience training can help Golden Retrievers burn off excess energy.

The Golden Retriever may exhibit some behavior issues if they don’t get enough exercise, so make sure to meet their exercise needs.

white english golden retriever

The Bottom Line

Golden Retrievers are loyal, friendly, lovable, obedient, and make great large family dogs. They get along well with family, friends, and even strangers, which is why so many people love them.

Golden Retrievers come in three varieties. The differences between them are minor, and we have explained these differences to help you get familiar with different types of Golden Retrievers.

You can choose any Golden Retriever to be your pet as their temperament, exercise needs, and other attributes are roughly similar. They are the same breed, and as such, you will only find differences in their physical attributes.

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