American-English Mix Golden Retrievers
Why mix the breeds?
There is some variation between the English type Golden Retrievers prevalent throughout Europe and those of American lines; and these differences are reflected in the breed standards. By mixing the two types of Golden Retrievers, we believe dog owners get the best of both worlds. The mix reinforces all the loving and loyalty characteristics of the breed, but they tend to be more docile at an earlier age than the pure American breed.
Mixing the types also provides a wider range of colors and body types, all within the AKC guidelines for the breed. Perhaps the most important reason for mixing the types is to help insure a diverse mix of bloodlines, reducing the chance of physical defects due to inbreeding. We believe the mix of American and English types provides the calmest, healthiest Golden Retriever puppies.
American Type
An American Golden is more slender than a European. A male usually stands from 23 to 24 inches (58 to 61 cm) in height at the shoulders, and females should be 21.5 to 22.5 inches (55 to 57 cm) at the shoulders. The males weigh 65-75 lbs. and the females weigh 55-65 lbs. American Golden Retrievers tend to be darker in color and a little more energetic, particularly in younger dogs. However, American type Goldens are just as loving and companionable as their English counterparts. Their hair tends to be more fine, while the European’s hair tends to be thicker.
English type
The European Golden Retrievers are bigger-boned, shorter, with a more square head and/or muzzle and are generally slightly heavier. Males are usually between 56 to 61 cm (22 to 24 ins) at the shoulders and females slightly shorter at between 51 to 56 cm (20 to 22 ins). The British Kennel Club standard calls for a level topline and straight hindquarters without the slight rear angulation found in American lines. European Goldens tend to be lighter in color, some are nearly pure white. On a breeders scale, the lighter the better. Pure European puppies are all white with black eyes and a black nose. They also tend to be a bit more docile at an earlier age than the American Breed. We love our English Goldens and mixes.
Rare White Golden Retrievers
If you are considering a "Rare White Golden," keep in mind that Golden Retriever colors vary from very light to very dark, but do not include white. Purebred Golden Retrievers are never white, though some may be extremely light cream in color (highly desirable in by many). Today there are a number of people marketing what they call White Golden Retrievers, making them sound rare and exotic. Avoid anyone that advertises white Goldens - there is no such thing.
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