12. Golden Retriever
The breed originated in Scotland by crossing Lord Tweedmouth's “yellow retriever” with the Tweed Water Spaniel, then adding in Irish setter and bloodhound, whose offspring were then crossed back to the now extinct tweed water spaniel. The golden retriever is one of America’s most loved dogs and number 3 on the AKC list of most popular dog breeds.
Goldens are regularly used as therapy dogs, guide dogs for the blind and for search and rescue. As air-scenting dogs, the goldens, labs, Malinois and GSDs can work search and rescue at night. Most goldens working search and rescue do it for the simple reward of praise, a sense of accomplishment and a little playtime when their job is done.
More recently they have been trained to identify minute traces of peanuts in foods. These dogs are employed to alert children that are susceptible to violent allergic reactions, to the presence of even the slightest trace of peanut. Renowned for their joyful dispositions and eagerness to please, active goldens make excellent obedience, agility and hunting dogs as well as ideal family pets.
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