The Golden Retriever, one of the most popular intelligent dogs around the world, is known for its service in a wide variety of areas including field trials, obedience, hunting and offering companionship and guidance to blind people. During early days of the 1800′s, hunting was considered both a practical measure for obtaining food as well as an interesting domain of sports in England and Scotland. The Golden Retriever was developed from the need to have a medium-sized dog that has the flexibility to move through wild fowling, both upland gaming zone and waterfowl.

In the history of the Golden Retriever, Lord Tweedmouth at Guisachan Estate, Scotland listed the first official record of breeding. However, it became known to the public only during 1952 when the great nephew of Lord Tweedmouth published few historical documentation concerning the estate and Lord Tweedmouth. In mid 19th century, the golden puppy, named Nous put his footsteps for the first time in the estate with his master, Lord Tweedmouth. In the estate, Lord Tweedmouth bred golden puppies with the most desired characteristics and mannerisms.

Tweed Water Spaniels were exclusively used for the purpose of hunting in the early years. It was mainly because these dogs have a true sense of intelligence, bravery and liveliness. The early breeding of the Golden Retriever was largely dependent on the contribution of Tweed Water Spaniels. Breeding between Nous and Belle, a female Tweed Water Spaniel, was held in the estate and they produced four golden puppies. However, the breeding of modern the Golden Retriever is highly influenced by Irish setter, Bloodhound and Tweed Water Spaniel.

The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased significantly during the last decades of 19th century. The Golden Retriever officially appeared to the public for the first time in 1908 at Crystal Palace, England. In the year 1913, the Golden Retriever Club in England was established and with this establishment a separate recognition for this breed was marked. It was 1920 when the Golden Retriever reached to North America and loved by many people.

In 1925, the Golden Retriever achieved the recognition from American Kennel Club (AKC). The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased sharply during the years of the 1930′s and 1940′s. With its true obedience, this breed obtained the award of Obedience Champ Title from American Kennel Club (AKC) in the year 1977.

In early days, the capability of the Golden Retriever dogs was limited to their hunting instinct, but later on down the line they show their utmost talent in the domain of show ring as well.

One interesting fact is that the dark shade used to be the predominant public preference that went over the light shade coat in earlier times, which is quite uncommon in today’s scenario.

Throughout the years, the popularity of this breed has increased and the Golden Retriever has been known as one of the most adorable and intelligent dogs among all other breeds around the world.