Golden retriever dogs are beautiful, intelligent animals. They learn quickly, though they can be very boisterous as puppies.

Originally bred as working dogs, golden retrievers are now used a lot as guide dogs, rescue dogs, and drug sniffing dogs. So they can be highly trained. But it's important to train your golden retriever dog when he is still a puppy. As they grow large - from 55 to 75 pounds, and from 21 ½ to 24 inches tall - they can become too strong to be easily controlled if you start training when they are older. Still, training as older dogs is better than no obedience training at all!

As can be seen from the golden retriever picture below this article, these muscular dogs have broad skulls. Their coats range from nearly white, and light gold, to a rich honey gold. Mid gold is considered to be a 'good' color, and the best have no white patches or any other markings. But if you're after a pet, this should not be an issue.

Golden retriever dogs have a lot of energy. This is probably what makes them such good guide dogs. But consequently, if you have them as a pet, they need a lot of exercise. If they don't get plenty of exercise, they will find ways of expressing their energy in somewhat mischievous ways - such as digging a lot of holes, or eating your laundry. When they're puppies, they may have a tendency to chew up shrubs as well.

Golden retriever dogs eat a lot, being a larger dog. They also have a tendency to develop hip dysplasia. As a result, it's worth inquiring with your vet about food developed especially so that larger breeds grow properly. It's much cheaper, and less heart breaking, to invest in better quality food, than to have to pay the vet bills should they get sick.

In terms of care, golden retriever dogs need regular grooming. Otherwise, their coats will mat, especially behind the ears. On the plus side, regular grooming will reduce the amount of dog hair that ends up on your lounge when they shed. It's important to check your dog's coat for ticks after a walk in the park, or other grassy areas.

As a family dog, golden retrievers will need obedience training, especially if you get a golden retriever puppy. They are great with children when they are older, but golden retriever puppies are very playful. They may accidentally knock toddlers down during a play session. But they can be taught to be gentle. Obedience training will also get your golden retriever dog used to other dogs and people, and teach him how to behave when he is outside the house.