Older Golden Retriever Puppies for sale in Stanford, Illinois

The Golden Retriever originated in Scotland during the 1800s, primarily developed by Sir Dudley Marjoribanks (later Lord Tweedmouth) who bred flat- and wavy-coated retrievers with Tweed Water Spaniels to create a superior waterfowl hunting dog with an even temper. The resulting breed quickly drew attention for its excellent hunting skills and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1925, becoming one of the most popular dog breeds of all time. Golden Retrievers feature a dense, water-repellant double coat that ranges from wavy to straight in colors from light cream to dark golden, with bodies that can vary from stocky and wide to lean and sporty. These heavy-shedding dogs are not suitable for households with allergies, as their double coat sheds year-round with particularly intense shedding in spring and fall.

Prized for their sunny personality, intelligence, and trainability, Golden Retrievers are naturally social dogs that thrive on human interaction and aim to please everyone, whether owner or stranger, making them wonderful companions for children and adults alike. Good-natured, confident, and energetic, these high-energy dogs require at least an hour of daily mental and physical exercise through activities like running, walking, biking, or swimming to prevent hyperactive or boisterous behavior. They need brushing 1-2 times weekly to control loose fur and dander, increasing to daily brushing during heavy spring and fall shedding seasons, plus occasional baths every two months and weekly ear inspections. With proper training and adequate exercise, Golden Retriever make calm, obedient companions valued equally by hunters for their powerful retrieving skills and families for their delightful temperament.