Did you know that golden retrievers are the third most popular dog breed in the United States?
These friendly and intelligent dogs have been beloved companions for decades. They’re known for their beautiful coats that come in various shades of gold.
But have you ever wondered about the history and evolution of golden retriever colors? Let’s take a closer look at how these gorgeous dogs came to be the color we know and love today. Read on to learn more.
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Early Origins
Golden retrievers were first bred in Scotland during the mid-19th century. They were originally developed as hunting dogs, specifically for retrieving waterfowl.
The first golden retrievers were bred by a man named Dudley Marjoribanks, also known as Lord Tweedmouth. He carefully selected and crossed four different breeds: the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel, Irish Setter, Bloodhound, and Wavy-Coated Retriever.
At this time, the color of golden retrievers varied greatly. They could be white, black, or various shades of brown and gold. However, Tweedmouth’s goal was to create a dog with a unique golden coat.
The Golden Coat Emerges
Through careful breeding and selection, Lord Tweedmouth was able to produce dogs with a distinct golden color. This is where the breed got its name – Golden Retriever.
It’s believed that Tweedmouth preferred a lighter-colored dog, as paintings of his dogs from this time show them with coats that range from cream to dark gold. Eventually, golden became the standard color for the breed.
Breed Standardization
In 1911, the Golden Retriever Club of England was formed, and they set the breed standard for golden retrievers. This included the ideal color of a golden retriever – a rich, lustrous shade of gold.
In 1920, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed and also adopted the same standard for coat color. This has remained unchanged to this day.
Shades of Gold
While “golden” is the desired color for the breed, there are actually several shades that fall under this category. These can range from a pale cream to a deep reddish-gold.
Some golden retrievers may also have small white markings on their chest or paws, but these are not considered desirable according to the breed standard.
Factors Affecting Coat Color
The coat color of a golden retriever is determined by genetics, but external factors can also play a role. Diet, sunlight exposure, and even stress levels can impact the shade of a dog’s coat.
As golden retrievers age, their coats may also lighten or darken slightly. This is normal and should not be cause for concern.
If you are looking to buy a golden retriever, shop here for puppies. They have a variety of golden retriever puppies and other breeds available.
Golden Retriever Colors: Reminiscing the Past and Appreciating the Present
The history and evolution of golden retriever colors is a fascinating journey. From their early origins with varied coat colors to the breed standardization of rich, lustrous gold, these dogs have come a long way.
But no matter what shade they may be, one thing remains the same – golden retrievers are loyal, loving companions who bring joy to their owners’ lives. These dogs will always hold a special place in our hearts.
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