The Golden Retrievers

English Cream Golden Retriever "Lilly."

AKC Golden Retriever "Lexie"

Both the English Creme and the American style Golden Retrievers are one and the same breed, however some of the English lines come in the light creme/white coloring.  Both can be registered with the American Kennel club, and in fact, my dogs are indeed registered with the AKC. 

The Golden Retriever was developed first and formost as a terrific hunting dog that loves the water.  With its intelligence and people loving happy personality, Goldens make terrific guide dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs and detection dogs.

Activity Level: Goldens love to excercise, and can tend to wander, so your level of activity and confinement needs should be a consideration when adopting a Golden.  For owners with limited abilities, a good game of fetch and walks on a treadmill can be a good addition to your Golden's schedule.

Size, Proportion, Substance: Males typically stand 23-24 inches in height at withers; females 21½-22½ inches.  Weight for males range from 65-75 pounds and females, 55-65 pounds.

Coat type:  The Golden Retriever has a dense, water-repellent coat with a good undercoat. They can be copious shedders, especially twice a year.  Trimming is not a requirement, and their coat should be left natural with an untrimmed natural ruff; moderate feathering on back of forelegs and under body; heavier feathering on front of neck, back of thighs and underside of tail.  The coat on the head, paws, and front of legs is short and even. 

Temperament: Goldens are known to be reliable, and trustworthy. Quarrelsomeness or hostility towards other dogs or people in normal situations, or an unwarranted show of timidity or nervousness, is not in keeping with Golden Retriever character.  They are gregarious and friendly so if you are looking for a guard dog, this is not the breed for you.