Golden Retriever Breed - What Are the 3 Types of Golden Retriever?

We all know the Golden Retriever as that cheerful, fluffy friend who lights up any room. This beloved breed is one of the most popular choices for families, and for good reason.

If you're thinking about bringing home a Golden Retriever puppy ( always a huge bundle of joy), you might wonder about the different types of Golden Retrievers.

Let's chat about the three types - the English Golden Retriever, American Golden Retriever, and Canadian Golden Retriever.

They're all part of the same loving breed, but each has its own charm shaped genetically and by where they come from.

Key takeaways

• The three types of Golden Retrievers are English, American, and Canadian, differing mainly in build, coat, and energy levels.

• Golden Retrievers started in Scotland with Lord Tweedmouth, bred from dogs like the Tweed Water Spaniel and Flat-Coated Retriever.

• All types share a friendly temperament, but Golden Retrievers are prone to health issues like cancer and hip dysplasia, so regular vet checks matter.

• Coat colours range from Light Golden to Dark Golden, with no official Black Golden or pure white in the breed standard.

• Golden Retrievers require daily exercise and grooming to stay happy and healthy, making them great for active families.

The history of the Golden Retriever takes us back to the 1800s in Scotland. Lord Tweedmouth, whose real name was Dudley Marjoribanks, wanted a skilled Retriever dog for hunting waterfowl.

He crossed a Yellow Retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel, and later added the Wavy-Coated Retriever and other breeds. This mix created the golden coat we adore today.

By the early 1900s, the breed gained fans. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom recognised them in 1913, and the American Kennel Club followed the American Kennel Club in 1925.

For more details, visit the Golden Retriever Club of America, as they have great insights.

Golden Retrievers then began to spread worldwide, leading to regional twists. That's how we got the three different types of Golden.

If you're into similar breeds, check our Golden Retriever vs Labrador Retriever comparison.

Though they're one breed, the main types vary by country standards. The Golden Retriever Club and kennel clubs set rules for looks and build. Let's break them down.

What is an English Golden Retriever?

Also called the British Golden Retriever or English Cream Golden Retriever, this type hails from Europe.

They're stockier with a more blocky head and pale cream-coloured coats. English Cream Golden pups often have that soft, wavy fur.

Generally, they are seen as being 'calmer' compared to the U.S. and Canadian Goldens. If you worry about energy levels, these might suit a slightly more relaxed home.

Take this in the context of them being less 'bouncy' than their foreign counterparts, not other breeds. Golden's all have their energetic streaks and need activity to keep them fit and healthy.

The Kennel Club also notes their sturdy build for fieldwork. For breed standards, see The Kennel Club's page.

What is an American Golden Retriever?

The American Golden Retriever is sleeker and taller, with a darker Golden coat from light to rich shades.

Bred under American Kennel Club rules, they're athletic and eager for dog shows or sports.

Their temperament is playful and high-energy. Golden Retrievers are highly trainable, but need space to run. If your family loves hikes, this type fits.

What is a Canadian Golden Retriever?

The Canadian Golden Retriever blends the two above. They're taller with a leaner frame and dark coats, often with feathering. The Canadian Kennel Club shapes their breed standard.

Canadian Golden dogs are versatile, great as a guide dog or pet. They're friendly but need daily exercise. If you're in a cold climate, their coat helps.

All different types of Golden share roots, but location tweaks them in their own unique way. It can seem funny at how one breed can vary so much yet still be in the same category. Imagine it like different accents in an international family.

You're all related, but you have different personalities and predispositions, shaped by where you live!

Golden Retrievers come in shades from the Cream Golden to the Red Golden Retriever. Official colours are the lustrous golden, dark or light, per the American Kennel Club. There are no Black Golden Retrievers or White Golden Retrievers; if they exist, they are likely mixes.

English Cream Golden Retrievers lean on the more pale side, while American types go darker. Red Golden is deep mahogany, but not standard for shows.

They also have a similar double coat across types, being water-resistant as a remnant of their hunting past.

Tip: Be sure to groom them weekly to keep that golden coat shiny, as well as help to prevent mats. Golden Retrievers usually do a big seasonal shed twice a year, so brush often.

If shedding bothers you, see our guide to low-shedding dogs.

Pick a reputable breeder who tests their health. Golden Retriever breeders should follow Kennel Club rules. Avoid pups under 8 weeks old; if a breeder offers them earlier, it is not a good sign.

Get to know the Golden by meeting parents. The Golden Retriever is often a top pick for first-timers but if you're looking for a pet, please see our post on the best dog breeds first-time owners.

For cost ideas, see our budgeting for a Golden Retriever post and remember to consider Golden Retriever pet insurance for peace of mind.

We hope this helps you find your perfect match. The Golden Retriever is one of the best furry pals around. Here's to many years of hugs, walks, and sloppy kisses from your new friend.