In the earlier days, the Golden Retriever was used for the purpose of hunting in old England and Scotland. It is due to their true flexibility and medium-size. The boldness, intelligence and vitality play a significant role in the hunting instincts of the Golden Retriever. The AKC recognized the Golden Retriever in 1925 and following this recognition the breed became increasingly popular. The dog received the title for Obedience Champ from the AKC in 1977.
Although no two dogs are alike, even if they are from the same breed, Golden Retrievers do bear a lot of similarities in their temperaments. Unless they have been abused or have had no effort put into their training, they are very gentle dogs that try their best to get along with everybody, including other animals. They are great with kids and the elderly (provided they have access to fenced yard to run around in.)
While developing the breed of the Golden Retriever, Tweed Water Spaniel dogs played a significant role. Breeding between Nous and Belle, a female Tweed Water Spaniel dog, gave birth the first fours desired golden puppies. However in time, dogs like Bloodhound, Irish setter along with Tweed Water Spaniel were integrated in order to breed the Golden Retrievers of today.
At the end of 19th century in England, the popularity of the Golden Retriever increased significantly. In the year 1908, the first exhibition of Golden Retrieve was held in the Crystal Palace show, England. A separate status had been established with the formation of the Golden Retriever Club in the year 1913 in England. In 1920, these dogs put their footsteps in North America for the first time in the line of dog-breeding history.
In 1925, the Golden Retriever achieved the recognition from American Kennel Club (AKC). The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased sharply during the years of the 1930's and 1940's. With its true obedience, this breed obtained the award of Obedience Champ Title from American Kennel Club (AKC) in the year 1977. During the early days of development, the versatility of the Golden Retriever was still unrecognized and this breed was only treated as a hunting dog. However later on all knew the versatile characteristics of this breed.
All Golden Retrievers that do meet the AKC standards will have some things in common. They will be active, alert dogs that stay involved in the world around them. As typical of a hunting dog, they will be hard workers, and not content to just lie around. They will be muscular, friendly, and love to interact with people.
The coat will be a beautiful mid-gold color, with a firm and resilient outer coat, either straight or wavy. The tail will be held proudly, and the eyes will be intelligent and friendly. A dog that meets the Golden Retriever standard will be a dog that anyone could be proud to own and show. To get the specifics of the American Kennel Club Golden Retriever Standards, one should check the AKC website.
