Golden Retriever.

Golden Retriever. Golden Retriever, breed of dog, originated in Scotland about 1865 from a cross between a yellow wavy-coated retriever and a tweed water spaniel. The dog was originally bred to retrieve wild fowl from cold water or heavy vegetation. Its keen nose and biddable temperament have expanded its range of usefulness; it is now used also as a guide dog for the blind and for the detection of narcotics. It was imported into the United States in the 1890s and in recent years has become increasingly popular. The male is from 58 to 61 cm (23 to 24 in) high at the shoulder and weighs from 29 to 34 kg (65 to 75 lb); the female is 55 to 57 cm (21.5 to 22.5 in) high at the shoulder and weighs from 27 to 32 kg (60 to 70 lb). The dense, water-repellent coat, which is a rich golden color, may be either straight or wavy. The dog has a broad skull, muscular neck, dark eyes set widely apart, small ears, straight forelegs and muscular hind legs, and a straight tail. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.