Long recognized by sportsmen as an ideal gun dog, the golden retriever often receives consideration from families looking for an attractive and loving pet.
The American Kennel Club characterizes the golden retriever as being one of the most prevalent breeds in the United States.
According to the AKC, these dogs are strong and hard workers, and “good at whatever they do, be it hunting, serving as guide dogs, working search and rescue, or being devoted companions."
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Golden retrievers are favored for their beautiful coats, soft, long hair, and exuberant personality. They benefit from a good amount of exercise daily, and are best suited to families with active lifestyles. Possessing an even temperament, they easily integrate into families with children of any age.
Understanding the attributes exhibited by a gun dog's breed is an important factor to consider when making a decision to choose a family pet. Golden retrievers generally demonstrate an "eager to please” personality, making them highly adaptable to various circumstances. This attitude is what makes the golden retriever highly trainable to perform a number of different tasks, including serving admirably as a hunting dog.
Dog lovers looking to select a golden retriever as a family pet will want to seek out a breeder that specializes in producing companion dogs as opposed to one that breeds expressly golden retriever hunting dogs. However, that does not mean a pet golden retriever cannot double as hunting dog.
According to TerrificPets.com, "One great thing about golden retrievers is that they are perfectly capable of being your hunting dog and your family pet. … With the right training, they can be comfortable and reliable both in the field and in your living room."
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Breeders looking to produce high quality hunting dogs select golden retrievers that exhibit behaviors hunters appreciate in their dogs. Over many years, these golden retrievers have been bred to hunt. They are more energetic, require more exercise, and are less likely to be content as a nonhunting companion.
Whether selecting a golden retriever to hunt pheasant, serve as a guide dog for the blind, or be an affectionate family pet, this dog breed possess all the qualities necessary to fill each of those roles equally well.
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