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Dark Golden Retriever: Breed Info, Pictures, Facts, & Traits

Melissa Gunter

By Melissa Gunter

Golden Retriever Dog licking his paws_Shutterstock_Chendongshan

Introduction

The Golden Retriever is easily one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. These dogs are known for their loyalty, loving personalities, and intelligence. While most of us think about the lighter, or golden, coloring when we picture these dogs in our head, the dark Golden Retriever is just as beautiful as the perceived ideal coloring. These dogs have a slightly darker color to their coat which can often appear coppery. Let’s learn a bit more about the dark Golden Retriever and why they are such a sought-after coloration of this amazing breed.

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The Earliest Records of Dark Golden Retrievers in History

The origin of the dark Golden Retriever’s coloration is a bit of a mystery. Since this is just a color variance of the Golden Retriever dog breed, we’ll take a look at the history of the breed itself. This breed was originally developed in the 1800s by the first Lord of Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks.

As a hunter of waterfowl, Majoribanks worked for 50 years to develop what he considered the ideal gundog. Located in the Scottish Highlands, he wanted a dog that could handle the tough, rainy terrain while still being an ideal hunter. To do this, he crossbred his yellow retrievers with the Tweed water spaniel, which is, unfortunately, now extinct.

How Dark Golden Retrievers Gained Popularity

golden retriever at the beach
Image Credit: Justin Aikin, Unsplash

The Golden Retriever was originally bred for hunting. With the high level of intelligence, the great disposition, and the extreme loyalty shown by this breed, it isn’t surprising that they eventually made their way into other lines of work. While the dark Golden Retriever is a preferred color for hunters, all colorations of this breed have made their way into the hearts of dog owners around the world. Yes, they make ideal pets, but their intelligence also makes them ideal as therapy animals, service animals, and emotional support pets.

Formal Recognition of Dark Golden Retrievers

The first appearance of a Golden Retriever in a dog show took place in 1908 at a British show. It was only a few years later in 1911 when The Kennel Club of England officially recognized the Golden Retriever as a specific breed. The Golden Retriever name wasn’t used during this recognition, however.

Instead, the dogs were simply labeled as Retrievers – yellow or golden. It wasn’t until 1920 that Golden Retriever was made the official name of the breed. Golden Retrievers made their way to America around 1910. It wasn’t until 1932 that the American Kennel Club decided to officially recognize the breed. It is unclear when dark golden became recognized as a breed standard color but it is listed as accepted by the AKC.

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Top 3 Unique Facts About Dark Golden Retrievers

Let’s take a look at a few unique facts about the dark Golden Retriever or Golden Retrievers in general.

1. Dark Golden Retrievers Come with a Heftier Price Tag

Golden retriever beautiful lovely pair
Image By: Rala3030, Shutterstock

While a purebred dog is always expensive, if you’re looking for the specific Dark Golden coloring, you should expect to pay a bit more. With the popularity of this more unique coloring, many breeders attach a much higher price tag for those who choose these dogs.


2. The First Dog

In the 1970s, Golden Retrievers rocketed to fame and popularity, thanks to Liberty. Who’s Liberty you may ask? Liberty was a Golden Retriever and the “first dog” of President Gerald Ford while he was in the White House.


3. Golden Retrievers Are Famous

Golden Retriever eating
Image By: Chendongshan, Shutterstock

As the most popular breed in the US, it isn’t surprising that Golden Retrievers of all colorations are famous. This dog breed has been featured in several Hollywood movies including the Buddy movie franchise, Homeward Bound, and even Full House. The fame doesn’t stop there, however. Online, a Golden Retriever by the name of Tucker Budzyn has more than 3 million followers across the many platforms he appears on.

Does a Dark Golden Retriever Make a Good Pet?

Yes, a dark Golden Retriever makes an amazing pet. While you may spend a pretty penny to bring this unique coloring home, Golden Retrievers are amazing with the family. These dogs love to play, take part in family activities, and cuddle with those they love. Considered a fairly healthy breed, Goldens are easy to train and do well with children.

One thing of note, however, is the breed’s mental health. Golden Retrievers of all colors can suffer from separation anxiety and depression due to their love of being with their families. Keep this in mind if you decide to bring one into your home. They also shed. A lot. Anyone who plans on having a Golden as a pet should be prepared to keep them properly groomed and be prepared for a bit of cleaning.

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Conclusion

The dark Golden Retriever is a beautiful coloration of the world’s most popular dog breed. While their colors may be breathtaking, it is the temperament and fun-loving attitude of these dogs that make them amazing pets. If you’re considering a dark golden as a member of your family, be ready to fall in love. These dogs will quickly become your best friend and confidant.


Featured Image Credit: Chendongshan, Shutterstock

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