10 Fun Facts About Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers are a lovable and devoted dog breed, and are always among the most popular family pets. But there's much more to know about this active and hardworking breed. Here are ten fun facts about Golden Retrievers:
1. Past puppyhood, Golden Retrievers often stay young at heart
Golden Retrievers mature slowly and can be playful and downright silly into adulthood.
2. Golden Retrievers love to eat
They'll eat anything, from the dinner in their bowl to toys, paper, and crayons. They also tend to overeat, so savvy owners know to limit treats, carefully measure out food, and feed them only at mealtimes.
3. Golden Retrievers are naturally mouthy
Like other retrievers, Goldens are likely to carry something around everywhere they go, such as sticks, toys, clothing, or whatever else isn't tied down.
Connect with our fully verified and responsible Golden Retrievers here and to learn more about the breed, including detailed health information, see our Golden Retriever breed information page.
4. They have soft mouths
The Golden's mouth is so soft, they can carry a raw egg in their mouth without cracking the shell.
5. They're a hard-working breed
Golden Retrievers are used for everything from hunting and tracking to rescue and service dog work. Despite their playful demeanor, they learn quickly and can master a multitude of skills.
6. Golden Retrievers make top-notch therapy dogs
Goldens are often employed as therapy dogs to soothe and calm people. They have reserves of empathy and unconditional love that can comfort anyone, from young children to elderly patients.
7. Golden Retrievers need lots of exercise
As active members of the Sporting Group, Golden Retrievers excel at a variety of sports, including fetch, hiking, and swimming. They're natural athletes that need plenty of exercise.
8. Goldens shine in events and competitions.
As intelligent, athletic dogs, Goldens are exceptional competitors in dog sports like obedience, agility, and dock diving.
9. Golden Retrievers are perennially popular pets.
The breed has been in the top ten list of most popular dog breeds in the United States for decades, most recently at number three out of 195. Their cousins, the Labrador Retriever, have held down the top spot for 28 years.
In Australia, Golden Retrievers are also a popular breed. According to the Australian National Kennel Council, they were the fourth most registered breed in 2020.
In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club ranks Golden Retrievers as the fifth most popular breed based on registration numbers as of 2021.
In New Zealand, Golden Retrievers are among the top 10 most popular dog breeds, according to the New Zealand Kennel Club.
Other countries that love Goldens include : Canada, Germany, Sweden, Norway, France, Japan
10. Golden Retrievers trace their history back to Scotland
In 1864, Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness, Scotland purchased a "yellow retriever" named Nous and bred him to a liver-colored Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The Golden Retrievers we know today are likely descended from Nous and Belle.
Connect with our fully verified and responsible Golden Retrievers here and to learn more about the breed, including detailed health information, see our Golden Retriever breed information page.