If you are searching for a family dog, there is a good chance that you have come across a Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers are great family dogs and they come in different variations of coat color. The Golden Retriever that has very light colored coat – almost white – is referred to as English Cream Golden Retriever, English Golden Retriever or White Golden Retriever. While the traditional Golden Retriever with a bright brown colored coat are called American Golden Retrievers. These two Golden Retrievers are pretty much the same; however, there are a few subtle differences between them. If you plan to get Golden Retriever, it is best to understand those differences and choose the Golden that you think is best for you.
Are American Goldens and English Golden Retriever Different Breeds?
American Golden Retrievers and English Goldens are the same breed. Both lines descended directly from the original Golden Retrievers of Lord Tweedmouth in Scotland. Both American Golden and English Golden are recognized by American Kennel Club ( AKC) as Golden Retriever.
Differences between an American Golden and English Golden Retriever
There are few differences between an American Golden Retriever and an English Golden Retriever. The reason these differences are seen is because of the way the Golden Retrievers are bred. Several different dog breeds were introduced by Scottish breeders into the mix to develop a Golden Retriever that we love today. The color difference likely comes because of the diverse genetic background of this breed.
American Golden Retrievers have lustrous, rich golden of various shades in their colors. On the other hand, an English Golden Retriever has cream like shades in their colors.
In addition to color, there are some minor differences in the physical structure of these dogs. The head structure of an American Golden Retriever is arched and broad-skulled with no focus on either the forehead or the occipital bones while the arch stretches laterally. The eyes of an American Golden Retriever are dark and medium- or large-sized. The front edge of short ears of these dogs falls right above the eyes, covering them when pulled forward. The neck of an American Golden Retriever is medium long and merges into the shoulders giving a muscular look.
On the other hand, the head of an English Golden Retriever is well-balanced and slightly larger than their yellow-toned cousins. Their skull is broad without a sense of coarseness. The ears of these dogs are moderately sized and almost level with their eyes similar to an American Golden Retriever. The neck is also similar to an American Golden and gives an impression of a well-built appearance.
The outer coat and feathers of an English Golden Retriever are little shorter than those of an American Golden Retriever. So shedding of the outer coat of an English Golden Retriever might generate less hair piles. However, spring shedding is largely from the undercoat and both English Golden Retrievers and American Golden Retriever shed the same amount of hair – after all they are the same breed.
When it comes to health, research has shown that American Goldens are more likely to develop cancer than their light-colored counterparts. A study carried out in 1998 by the Golden Retriever Club of America showed that 61. 4 percent of American Golden Retrievers died from cancer. In contrast, the study carried out by the UK Kennel Club showed that 38. 8 percent English Golden Retrievers died due to cancer. In terms of median age, American Golden Retrievers live up to 10 years and 8 months while English Goldens can live up 12 years and 3 months.
Should You Get an English Golden Retriever?
The differences between these two dogs are minor and they are identical in terms of temperament. They both need same level of exercise too and become disruptive if they don’t get enough of it. American Golden Retrievers are more golden. They generally have longer beautiful hair that look gorgeous. This doesn’t mean that English Golden Retrievers aren’t beautiful. Their lush light-colored coat looks great too. Since the differences are minor, you can choose the dog that you find more attractive.
If you want to get a new companion that would get along with your family and friends, both American Golden and English Golden Retriever are a great choice. These canines are loyal, patient and fun-loving, which make them a great family dog. They require a lot of attention and enjoy company of people. They are perfect for children and easy to train. This makes them a good choice for you if you can’t dedicate a lot of time to training of your pooch.
Moreover, as long as Golden Retrievers get enough exercise, they will happily listen to all of your commands. They will stay healthy and active if you can attend to their needs and care for them properly. Golden Retrievers don’t get bored easily so you can watch movies in their company. However, they aren’t the best choice if you can’t take them out for exercise regularly.
If you prefer a light white-colored Golden Retriever over their yellow-toned counterpart, you can get an English Golden Retriever.
American Golden Retrievers are less expensive and easier to find than an English Golden Retrievers. English Golden Retrievers aren’t popular in the United States, so they are hard to find. Generally, you might be able to get this dog from a breeder. But, be prepared to pay over a grand as breeders charge a lot of money for an English Golden Retriever puppy.
Be very careful when you are searching for a breeder who can give you an English Golden Retriever. There are many breeders who either don’t know the difference between an English Golden and an American Golden or would just lie to get a higher price from you. This doesn’t mean that all breeders are like this. There are certainly a lot of good breeders who take great care of their dogs. They might have a purebred English Golden Retriever. You will have to search for breeders in your area to find a reputable one who can provide you with a purebred English Golden Retriever. Ask your friends and relatives about breeders in your area as the best way to find a reputable breeder is through word of mouth.
There are a few important things that you should look for in the breeder you are considering to get an English Golden Retriever from.
First, the breeder should put emphasis on the health of the dog. This includes medical screenings, vaccinations and nutrition. A reputable breeder should be able to provide health records of the dogs under their care. Second, a good breeder will have knowledge of the breed. They will be able to easily answer any questions that you might have about Golden Retrievers. Another thing you should take a look at is whether the breeder is concerned about finding a good home for their puppy or just interested in making money. A good reputable breeder won’t just hand their pup to anyone. They will want a guarantee that you will be able to care for the dog.
Names for an English Golden Retriever
If you adopt an English Golden Retriever, you will have to choose a name that suits this canine. Here are some options for you to consider.
- Marley
- Fifi
- Romeo
- Sugarsnap
- Sweetpea
- Cupid
- Tinkerbell
- Fairy
- Spring
- Sweetie
- Sugar
- Blossom
- Fluffy
- Sammy
- Chip
- Max
- Sunny
- Willow
- Bailey
- Luna
- Glossy
- Shimmer
- Snowy
- Frost
- Salty
- Sky
- Opal
- Lily
- Smoky
- Phantom
- Snowflake
- Blondie
- Lightning
- Ivory
- Moon
- Chalk
- Leia
- Chardonnay
- Fairy
- Crackers
- Diamond
- Casper
- Zeus
- Arya
- Lilith
- Gemini
- Glimmer
- Mari
- Roxie
- Buttercup
- Tiggy
Our Final Thoughts
Both American Golden Retrievers and English Golden Retrievers are great family dogs. They are loving, caring, friendly, and loyal. There are some differences between the two dogs. The most prominent difference is their color. So if you are fond of white and want a family dog that is nearly white, you can opt for an English Golden Retriever. Search for a reputable breeder to ensure that you get a purebred English Golden Retriever that has all the qualities of an American Goldie. If you want a golden color dog, we suggest you get yourself an American Golden Retriever.
