The Golden Retriever originated in the early 19th century. It was developed after a long line of breeding from the Newfoundland, Tweed water spaniels and the Irish setter. The ultimate goal was to develop a breed of hunting dog that was big enough and had the endurance to hunt and retrieve a large number of game birds at a time. The Golden Retriever became quite popular with British nobility not only for its hunting and retrieving abilities, but because it was such a great companion. It is an excellent bird dog, and considered to excel in both land and water retrieval. The breed is so eager to please that it also makes an excellent search and rescue dog.

I know a Golden Retriever from my neighborhood that's one of our friends, his name is Sparky. The owners of Sparky went to a breeder. The parents were champion show dogs. Sparky is 10 now. The bond I see with the owners is very special. Here he is as a puppy and an adult. Sparky is one of the lucky ones to get a home, they adore him. The love is tremendous for this dog. He is a handsome boy and very sweet. I am very pleased to know him. I love Golden's they are great dogs.  The last picture of them together shows the intimacy the dogs love and crave, beautiful.