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Its classic good looks and sunny temperament make the Golden Retriever the quintessential dog for many pet owners. Ideally a medium-size hunting dog, the Golden is a breed of British origin, developed in the mid-19th century by a Scotsman, Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, later Lord Tweedmouth. Records show that the Golden has a mixture of sporting breeds in its background: retriever, Tweed Water Spaniel, setter and, to sharpen scenting power, the sandy-colored Bloodhound. After several generations of selective breeding, type was standardized, and in 1913 The Kennel Club (England) sanctioned the Golden Retriever as a purebred. The Golden's manners win friends wherever it goes. In addition to being a reliable, gentle-mouthed retriever, the breed is easy to train and excels in obedience and as a guide dog. Males measure from 23 to 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 65 to 75 pounds, with females being somewhat smaller. The Golden Retriever's dense, water-repellent coat comes in various shades of gold and can be wavy or straight. It should be groomed about three times a week to keep it shiny and tangle-free. As a family pet, especially with children, the Golden has few equals. It does best in suburban or country environments where it gets lots of outdoor exercise.

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