The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the world. A friendly, outgoing disposition makes him an ideal pet; his glamorous good looks find favour in the show ring, and his retrieving abilities make him an excellent shooting companion.

Biddable and easy to train, the Golden Retriever is a successful competitor in canine sports, and is used as an assistance dog, helping blind and disabled people to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

In Golden Retrievers Today, author Valerie Foss traces the origins of the breed from its ancestral home in Scotland. Advice is given on choosing a puppy, depending on whether you are looking for a pet, a working dog or a show dog, and there is guidance on basic training and socialisation.

Caring for a Golden is described, with information presented on feeding, grooming and exercise. A chapter on health care provides details of first aid, preventative health care, and breed ailments.

The Breed Standard is analysed, and there is illustrated coverage of preparing a Golden Retriever for the show ring.

For those who are interested in training, the specialised areas of gun-training, agility, working tests and obedience competitions are highlighted, with breed-specific training tips to help you get the very best from your Golden.

For the expert, there are chapters on breeding - from choosing breeding stock through to mating, whelping, and rearing a litter.

Hardcover - 158 pages First published in 1994

Author : Valerie Foss.