Selecting the Right Dog

Retrievers are classified as gun dogs, because they are commonly used as hunting companions. These dogs were bred primarily to retrieve game, but the breed has adapted well to family companionship, as well. Many families would not be complete without their furry, slipper-retrieving friends. Retrievers are intelligent, trainable and loyal animals loved the world over. Some popular retrievers include:

Curly Coated Retriever

These dogs were originally bred from water spaniels and different dogs from the retriever and pointer families. The curly coated retriever originated over 200 years ago. In the late nineteenth century in New Zealand and Australia, this breed was popular as shooting dogs. The curly coated retriever is easy to recognize due to its distinctive appearance. It's nearly waterproof coat consists of small, tight curls over body, tail and ears. The curly coated retriever is known for having excellent retrieval skills. The breed also boasts intelligence, endurance, and strength as general qualities. Because curly coated retrievers are need lot of exercise, they are outdoor animals. They make excellent guard dogs, but are also friendly and serve as fine family pets.

Flat Coated Retriever

Flat coated retrievers are versatile dogs, serving as both family pets and hunting companions. These dogs are are, happy, intelligent, and sleek. Flat coated retrievers only sport solid black or solid liver coloration on their moderately long, thick coat of flat-lying fur. This breed is known for being adaptable, and is a determined retriever on land and in water. The curly coated retriever is keen and flushes well within gun range. These dogs are bright and trainable, with a desire to please characterized by a confident expression and constantly wagging tail. Because the flat-coated retriever is a friendly dog with a friendly inclination, he makes a sufficient alert dog, but is not bred to function as a guard dog.

Golden Retriever

The golden retriever is one of the most popular dogs the world over. The origin of this breed was the basis of some confusion for many years, but it is generally agreed that Lord Tweedmouth started this breed. Before taking on the breed name, these dogs were originally registered as flat coated retrievers distinguished by color. The breed was set apart in 1920, and came to be known as golden retrievers. These dogs were bred originally to retrieve game in the field, but this versatile dog has adapted to many other uses as well. Golden retrievers presently function in many roles, ranging from guide dog to family pet. The animal is easy to train, relatively easy to keep clean, and has a fun personality that needs lots of play and exercise.

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador retriever has been called "one of the best all-around dogs found anywhere in the world." Of course, this breed was used to retrieve game, but has come to be an excellent guide dog and sniffer. The popular belief is that the breed originated in Greenland with fisherman who used the dogs to retrieve fish. The breed was formed officially in 1916, but has been popular in the UK since the 1800's. Labradors have excellent demeanor and make wonderful pets for families with children. Primarily a country dog, the Labrador retriever prefers to run free outside or to romp in the water and does not fare as well in an urban setting.

If you are interested in a retriever, make sure you have the time to provide proper exercise and care. Consider the room that your particular breed will need as an adult, as well as the amount of food and veterinary care that you will have to provide. Retrievers need a firm and consistent master to make sure they understand their order in the family pack, but make excellent dogs for families with children.