Golden Retriever Breed Standard

When you have a show dog, it is important that it follows the rules of the American Kennel Club, or the AKC.

The dog should be very active and sound well. It cannot be clumsy or long legged. The expression of the dog has to be kind, eager, alert, and self-confident. Even though the breed is a show dog, he should show strong qualities and be hard working.

The dog has to have the perfect measurements. You can find the measurements for your dog online at varies AKC sites. If you have any height or weight deviations of more than one point the dog will be disqualified. The judges will not only check for their measurements, but also inspect their head.

The inspection will include looking at the foreface, muzzle, eyes, ears, nose and teeth. They must possess all the physical demands or the dog will be, again disqualified. Most disqualifications come from the teeth. There can't be an over or under bit. Their height can throw a good candidate from the show because they are either too short or too tall.

The neck, topline, and body of the dog will also be judged. The neck should be medium length and the shoulders should be sturdy and laid back so that the dog has a masculine look. They must look like they are well balanced and deep through the chest. Their entire body has to be judged and meet certain requirements are your dog won't make it.

As for the tail, it has be to thick and muscular. The tail should not curl or go between their legs. This is the point where some dogs will be disqualified. It is best that you learn exactly what is expected from the dog before you place your retriever in the show.

As for the coat, the dog must be perfectly groomed showing the physique of the animal. The grooming of the dog must be to the AKC standard or you will be penalized for it. The color has to be a rich golden shade. Any white markings other than a few white hairs on the chest will be penalized. Light shadings should not be mixed up with white. Light golden is acceptable. Any notice of a black or dis-colorment could cost your dog a metal.

The dog trots it needs to be smooth, well coordinated, and masculine. Their feet should never cross or come in contact with each other. The dog needs to display friendliness, trustworthiness, and reliability. They cannot be hostel towards other people or dogs. They must display confidence or the dog will be penalized.