Are There Different Types of Golden Retrievers?

Are There Different Types of Golden Retrievers?

If you've ever wondered if there were different types of golden retrievers, you're not alone. The short answer is yes. Golden retrievers can vary by the color of their coat as well as by "type." Although the answer can be nuanced, we've simplified common golden retriever types based on these characteristics.

Types of Golden Retrievers 

Although distinctions exist between types of golden retrievers, they're mostly cosmetic. This breed has minimal variation in terms of temperament and personality — all golden retrievers are known for their loyalty, intelligence and good-natured, fun-loving personality. Golden retriever types include the:
  • Canadian Golden Retriever: Canadian Goldens have thinner and darker coats than American Retrievers and are usually leaner and taller than British Goldens. 
  • American Golden Retriever: This type of golden retriever has a longer and thicker coat of fur than the British Golden Retriever. Other differences between American and British Goldens are minimal.
  • British Golden Retriever: British Goldens have shorter and wavier fur than American Goldens. Their coats are a characteristic cream color, and these dogs have rounder eyes, a broader skull and more powerful forequarters when compared to American Goldens.
  Golden retrievers can also vary by the color of their coat. In general, these dogs are large and powerful, with long fur and an athletic build. Unlike other breeds, which can come in different colors, goldens are sorted into three classifications of gold. These include golden, light golden or cream-colored and dark golden. In rare cases, a golden retriever may fall outside this color range, with coats that are red, black, mahogany or even pure white.  

What Breeds Make a Golden Retriever?

The golden retriever breed dates back to the early 1800s. A gentleman by the name of Lord Tweedmouth bred dogs in the Scottish Borders to be able to hunt and collect game from long distances. Tweedmouth first mated a yellow Flat-Coated Retriever and the Tweed Spaniel. The resulting litter had four puppies, which were then crossed with other breeds, including an Irish Setter and a Bloodhound.  It wasn't until the 1900s that the dogs were given their own category. In 1920, they were officially named "Golden Retrievers."

Contact Golden Meadows Retrievers Today

A golden retriever is playful, athletic, obedient and will love you no matter what. They're also the second most popular breed in the U.S. — for a good reason. If you want to grow your family and adopt one of these furry companions, you've come to the right place! As an AKC Breeder of Merit, we have over 25 years of experience breeding and training golden retrievers Our team of trainers provides early socialization skills for our puppies, including early neurological stimulation (ENS) and a technique known as the Rule of 7. No matter the type or color, a golden retriever will be the perfect addition to your family. They have an excellent temperament for interacting with children and are incredibly easy to train.  Contact Golden Meadows Retrievers for more information about our puppies today.

Are There Different Types of Golden Retrievers?