Selecting and Distinguishing Golden Retrievers
Selection Based on Appearance:
- Mouth: Hold the dog’s mouth with your hand; the wider the mouth, the better. A wide mouth with a strong grip is considered more desirable. The mouth pigmentation should be black, with minor spots allowed.
- Coat Volume: Naturally, a higher coat volume is preferred. Use a comb to assess the coat volume; more volume is theoretically better.
- Paws: Paws should naturally come together, not splay apart.
- Eyes: Adult purebred Golden Retrievers should not show any white when staring forward. However, when selecting a puppy, avoid those with completely hidden white eyes. It is normal for puppies to show some white, but it should be within limits.
- Bone Structure: The bone structure is evident from the paws, and good Golden Retrievers even at 30 days old will have thick paws measuring over 5cm horizontally. Adequate bone structure is crucial for a well-built dog.
- Ears: Ears should not be too large; pulling the ear tip should just cover the edge of the dog’s eyes. Excessive length is a fault.
- Skull: A distinctive feature is a noticeable bone protrusion at the top of the skull. Additionally, a concave line along the center of the nose is preferred.
- Nose: The nose should be black; a red nose is considered a disqualification.
- Hair Distribution: Straight hair is better than chaotic clumps. During grooming, observe the color distribution for a well-patterned coat.
Gender Selection:
Golden Retrievers are known for their loyalty, gentleness, and kindness, making them a popular choice as family pets. When deciding between a male (dog) and a female (bitch), each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Male Golden Retriever:
- Advantages: Robust personality, more active, and generally more visually impressive.
- Disadvantages: May take longer to train, and can display more assertiveness.
Female Golden Retriever:
- Advantages: Gentle, easier to train, quick learners. Less maintenance and care compared to males.
- Disadvantages: Seasonal heat cycles, potential pregnancy, and whelping can be troublesome.
Selecting between a male and female Golden Retriever depends on individual preferences and the purpose of having a pet.