Golden Retriever Breed Characteristic Information Standard

The writing out of a Golden Retriever Breed' Standard is not an arbitrary decision of some beauty ideals. Primarily, there is the aptitude of the dog for his original application, and following that aspect, the necessary anatomic characteristics are described.

Utility Description: Retrieving dog for gun hunting.

Explanation: The Golden wasn't raised as a family dog; rather, he was raised as a utility dog for hunting. And this is the aspect you have to bear in mind when buying one.

General Aspect Description: Symmetric, harmonious, lively, strong, well-balanced movements; robust but with a gentle expression.

Behavior/Character Description: Willing and obedient, intelligent with an innate talent for working; loving, cordial and confident.

Explanation: A Golden is not a couch dog; he's lively and is willing to work, but this has to stimulated, if you want to do the dog justice.

Head and Neck Character: Well-proportioned and good shape. Wide skull, not coarse, but well placed on the neck. A marked "stop". The snout is strong and deep, approximately the same length as the head from the stop to the top head bone. A strong jaw with a regular scissor-like bite.

Dark brown eyes: dark eyelids; medium-sized ears, inserted around the height of the eyes. A long, muscular neck with no jowl or double chin.

Explanation: A strong and deep snout is necessary in order to bring heavy preys like rabbits or ducks. A complete set of teeth is desired as that way he can chew well, taking advantage of his food. If his neck is too long, he might have problems to lift the prey from the floor, to carry it and to track blood.