You’ll rarely see a Golden Retriever without a smile on her face!

Maggie, the Golden Retriever puppy, fast asleep on the table. Here is Maggie "sleeping on the table"! She is now one year old and belongs to 13 year old Steph from Wisconsin.

Golden Retriever

At a Glance

Big and Tall A Regular Gym-Goer The Life of the Party/The Babysitter Hip and Happening

Famous Owners

Musician Jimmy Buffet (his Golden Retriever's name was Cheeseburger)

Professional Golfer Jack Nicklaus (dog’s name-Cali)

Actress Jane Seymour (dog’s name-Crispin)

Actress Mary Tyler Moore (dog’s name-Dash)

Comedic Writer Dave Barry (dog’s name-Earnest)

U.S. President Gerald Ford (dog’s name-Liberty)

Actress Renee Zellweger (dog’s name-Woof)

Breed History

The Golden Retriever originated in Britain during the 1800s. A major contributor to the breed was Lord Tweedmouth at Inverness-Shire, Scotland who kept records of his efforts to create the breed between 1835 and 1890. The breed began as a mix of the now extinct Tweed Water Spaniel and several other breeds, including small Newfoundlands, Irish Setters, Bloodhounds, and other Water Spaniels. Goldens were developed for use as hunting dogs — a purpose they still fulfill today.

Golden Retrievers Today

Golden Retrievers are generally between 21 and 24 inches, with the males being slightly bigger than the females. Their coats are of a medium length with feathering at the legs and tail. The breed can be any golden color, ranging from a light cream to a dark gold. Most Goldens become a lighter color with age and experience graying around the eyes and on the muzzle. (Do they make Miss Clairol for dogs?)

Personality and the Perfect Owner

In a pageant, a Golden Retriever would take the “Miss Congeniality” award paws down! Golden Retrievers are friendly, confident, and eager. You’ll rarely see a Golden without a smile on her face. Goldens are versatile, performing functions ranging from hunting dogs to therapy and guide dogs.

If you like a dog that can take a run in the park then go home and play jovially with your toddler, the Golden might be the perfect dog for you. Goldens are ideally matched to a house with a big yard or country life, but they can adapt to life in an apartment if you’re willing to take regular walks. Better break in those walking shoes!