Country of Origin: The Golden Retriever originated near the English-Scottish border

Height: Male Golden Retrievers range from 23 inches to 24 inches. Female Golden Retrievers range from 21.5 inches to 22.5 inches.

Weight: Male Golden Retrievers range from 65 to 75 pounds. Female Golden Retrievers range from 55 to 65 pounds.

Description: Golden Retrievers are heavily muscled, with a dense coat and a heavily feathered tail. These highly trainable sporting dogs have a confident, eager and alert personality - and need constant attention to be happy. Gentle and loving, the Golden Retriever makes a good family pet. The Golden Retriever is in the Sporting group.

Colors: Golden Retriever colors range from gold to cream.

Coat: Golden Retrievers have a dense, water-repellent coat. Their coat requires a twice-weekly grooming.

Temperament: The Golden Retriever is a devoted, responsible dog breed. Gentle and easy to train, this sporting dog enjoys retrieving and is superb with children.

Health Concerns: The Golden Retriever is susceptible skin allergies, thyroid problems, cataracts and other eye problems and hip dysplasia.

Life Expectancy: The life expectancy of the Golden Retriever is 10-13 years.

Living Environment: Golden Retrievers are active dogs that need daily outdoor exercise and human contact. As the Golden Retriever is a very energetic breed, they do not do well in apartments, or as a companion for the elderly. Eager to please, Golden Retrievers enjoy learning new tricks and especially enjoy games that involve retrieving.