Selecting the right pet for you and your family is an important decision. There are several hundred breeds of dogs from around the world so your choices are virtually limitless. 

The American Kennel Club categorized the different breeds by groups with each group having distinguishing characteristics that are shared by all the breeds in it. The Golden Retriever is in the Sporting Group. 

The Sporting Group is made up of some of the oldest and most popular breeds. Many of the dogs in this category were bred for hunting although most people who own sporting dogs only keep them as family pets, rather than hunters. The hunting traits, however, create some of the most enjoyable aspects of owning a sporting dog. 

Originating in the mid-1800s, some sources state England as their country of origin and others state Scotland as their country of origin. Lord Tweedmouth at Inverness-Shire, Scotland is said to have extensive records that show he developed the breed. Their ancestry includes the Water Spaniel, Retrievers, Setters and a Bloodhound. They were mainly used for hunting and retrieving and have an excellent sense of smell. They also make excellent therapy and guide dogs. 

Goldens are natural retrievers, so you can enjoy them fetching a tennis ball for what seems like forever. Another trait is their outgoing personality, making sporting dogs enthusiastic and responsive partners. They are born people pleasers from hunting to tricks to family pet. 

Golden Retrievers are a medium to medium/large dog breed. They reach a height between 20” to 24”. The Golden Retriever is generally light yellow to deep golden honey in colour. The coat tends to get a little deeper in colour after the first year. Their coat should be long and either flat or wavy. They have a medium length, water repellent outer coat and a dense undercoat. Their coat is feathered. They require a daily brushing to prevent knots and they only need an occasional dry shampoo. You should only give them a wet bath if necessary. 

The Golden Retriever was bred to be tough and strong. Don’t let the happy, silly face fool you. While any Golden will delight in lazing around the house or wrestling on the floor with your family, the breed is particularly adept in the field. 

As puppies, Goldens are full of energy and can be especially mouthy. Make sure you direct your puppy's need to chew to appropriate chew toys. Remember, puppies aren't fussy and don't discriminate. A chair leg works as well for them as a sterilized bone. 

Goldens are very trainable, athletic, and good-natured. They have a keen desire to please. You can find them performing with tails wagging and eyes shining in the obedience, agility, and fly ball arenas. They are also excellent with children and other dogs. Early socialization is recommended for birds and small non-canine pets because of their hunting history but they tend to get along with other animals as well. 

They are extremely easy to train, even for the dog novice. They love to learn and they are fast learners. They are best for active families as they need daily time to run and roam outdoors. If you are looking for an excellent hunting companion, the Golden Retriever is an awesome hunting dog. 

Playful outside and calm indoors, the Golden Retriever is considered to be one of the best large dog breeds to have as a family pet. If you are in search of a large dog that is sweet, calm and affectionate and will be good with families that include other dogs or small children, it is hard to find a more pleasing, gentle large family dog. 

Exercise and play are important in their daily activities, but they will be just as happy relaxing inside with you at night.