BREED SPOTLIGHT
5 Fun Facts About Golden Retrievers
National Golden Retriever Day is February 3rd, and in honor of this pet holiday, we’re sharing a little trivia about this popular and beloved breed. Read on to learn five fun facts that you might not know about the popular Golden Retrievers!
The Breed Originated in Scotland
The Golden Retriever breed was developed by Lord Tweedmouth, who lived in the Scottish Highlands in the late 1800’s.
The first time a Golden Retriever was shown at a dog show was in 1908 in Britain. Goldens later started arriving in America in the early 20th century. This breed became more popular in the States during the 1970’s, when President Gerald Ford was in office with his dog Liberty by his side.
Not All Goldens Are Alike
Did you know there are several different types of Golden Retrievers? There are three main varieties of this dog breed: the Canadian Golden Retriever, the British (or English) Golden Retriever, and the American Golden Retriever.
Golden Retrievers also come in a wide range of different hues. You’ll find Goldens that are so pale they look almost white; Goldens that are a deep, burnished auburn color; and every shade in between. There are even black-furred Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers also have a double coat — a thicker undercoat and an additional top coat, which helps them stay warm in the water.
They Are Hollywood Stars
You’ve probably noticed that Golden Retrievers frequently show up on the silver screen. Air Bud, Homeward Bound, and Full House are just a few of the popular movies and TV shows that feature a Golden as man’s best friend.
They Have Webbed Toes
Remember, Golden Retrievers were bred as hunting dogs. Part of their job was retrieving birds from the water. This is why Goldens are commonly known to be strong swimmers.
Golden Retrievers actually have webbed feet that help them swim, acting almost like flippers . The “toes” on their paws are connected by thin webs of skin. This helps Goldens move through the water easily and efficiently.
Goldens Are Extremely Popular
Golden Retrievers are regularly recommended for families with small children or first-time dog owners. These intelligent, empathetic dogs are also commonly used as working dogs.
There’s no doubt about it: Golden Retrievers are a special breed of dog. If you’re looking to adopt a new pet, a Golden might be a great fit for you.
Here at MetLife1, we know accidents and illnesses can happen to all pets. MetLife Pet Insurance1 can help. Consider getting pet insurance for your furry friend today.
We wish you and your pup a happy National Golden Retriever Day!
Protect your Golden Retriever
Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances.
1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.