Understanding the Breed

The Beginning

The Golden Retriever was developed in Scotland and England in the mid-19th century as a hunting dog able to retrieve land and water fowl. Goldens made their debut in North America in the 1920’s, were their handsome appearance, wonderful temperament and excellent working ability established their popularity.

Guisachan Estate, as it appears today.

The Golden Retriever is a sturdy, muscular breed. Mature Golden Retriever males measure 23-24″ at the shoulder (withers) and weigh 75-80 lbs. Females are slightly smaller at 21 ½”-22 ½” at the withers and weigh about 60-65 lbs. It is acceptable for their height to vary by 1″ either way. One of the characteristics of Goldens is their multi-length coat, which consists of a good undercoat during the colder months, with a longer, water-repellent outer coat with heavier feathering on the chest, tail, back of thighs and forelegs. The adult coat varies in shades of lustrous gold from cream to dark gold.

While Golden Retrievers are strikingly beautiful dogs, the hallmark of the breed is their wonderful eager-to-please temperament. Well-bred and properly socialized Goldens are extremely trainable and versatile. They are employed as guide dogs for the blind, independence dogs for the disabled, make superb hunting retrievers and excel in the show and obedience rings. Most important however, is that Goldens make unsurpassable family companions.

Article from Golden Retriever Club of Canada

For more information on Guisachan Estate please visit Friends of Guisachan

Why NOT a Golden Retriever?

Many people see the “good” but don’t realize there are several other factors to consider when considering bringing a Golden into your life. Dr. Gayle Watkins wrote a great report on the Top 10 Reasons NOT to get a Golden Retriever.

Make an educated decision.

While Golden Retrievers are one of the top most wanted “family” dogs, there is much to consider before you bring a Golden into your home. Although you think you love this breed, realize it may not be the breed for you and your family.

There are many things to consider when bringing a dog into your life and questions you need to ponder…

• Fit your lifestyle?

• Personality match yours?

• How much work?

• What are the real costs?

• Who is most qualified to take responsibility?

Golden Retrievers are an integral part of a family. They do not do well when left alone in a yard, kennel or long hours with out any human interaction.

If the initial investment of a Golden Retriever is too high from a reputable breeder, than this is NOT the breed for you. There are many other expenses that you will incur over the life of the dog.

Life Is Too Short

Regardless of the age our dog will cross over the rainbow bridge it is often too soon. We are all hoping for 12 - 14+ years of a wonderful life with our dog, but statistics indicate that for the average lifetime of a Golden Retriever is 10 - 12 years.

Many reputable breeders do their best to breed longevity into their program, but unfortunately there are no guarantees.

The biggest killer of our breed and the most common is hemangiosarcoma, followed by lymphosarcoma, mast cell tumor, and osteosarcoma. Its hard to say good-bye and with cancer being the top killer of our breed it is an emotional drain and in some cases a financial strain.

At the end of the day decisions comes down to a quality of life. Reflecting back on the wonderful years, magic moments and fun times your dog have given you will hopefully help you in making the best decision for your dog.