Golden Retrievers are one of the most famous breeds on the planet. Most dog enthusiasts think that they only come in shades of gold colour. However, did you know that Black Golden Retrievers also exist? No, we are not talking about Flat-Coated/Black Retrievers or Black Labradors, but the real black version of Golden Retrievers dogs. Black Golden Retrievers are not separate species; they are genetic mutations of Golden Retrievers.
Like their golden peers, Black Golden Retrievers dogs also have lengthy, silky double coats despite being black. This type of Golden Retriever, too, has a significant and lean physical appearance. These cute beings are great family companions because they are incredibly loyal, tolerant, and intelligent.
One of the best points of bringing a Black Golden Retriever dog home is that it is effortless to train and fast to learn new things. Besides, these Golden Retrievers dogs are one of the best cuddle mates!
Moreover, there are countless interesting facts that you might not know about these special Black Golden Retrievers dogs. So, let’s explore them in this article.
The Initial Appearance Of Black Golden Retrievers Dogs In History:
The Black Golden Retriever dog originally came from England, Scotland, and the United Kingdom. It is not an AKC-registered breed as it most likely combines different dog breeds in its predecessors—the Flat-coated Retriever dogs or the Labrador Retriever dogs.
In 1868, a Scottish man bred a black wavy coated retriever dog to a Tweed water spaniel breed, producing a trio of three yellow puppies that were the origin to pursue breeding. He then used the sand-coloured Bloodhound breed and a flat-coated black retriever dog in breeding efforts to produce his desired breed. In this, the result was a lively & loyal dog.
The Myth Of The Black Golden Retriever
Many believe they only come in one shade of golden because of the name. However, Golden Retrievers can have an entirely black colouration, which enhances their long, fluffy coat and generally attracts many dog owners. This breed has a luxuriant, ebony-coloured coat that shines.
These are beautifully coloured dogs that have much to offer in the form of looks and personality. The Black Golden Retriever is intelligent and playful, with a loyal touch. Not only are their looks stunning, but their origin and backstory are also interesting.
The Black Golden Retriever’s primary purpose is because it carries dormant genes of the flat-coated Black Retriever. There is also a possibility that a breeder added a new dog breed in the breeding without telling the breed authorities. This dog’s black coat could be from just one generation back in their ancestry or several generations.
What, exactly, is a “black golden”? And does it exist? A pretty active debate about this has been ongoing amongst Golden people. Some say a “black golden” is simply a mix of different breeds, such as a Golden, which is also part of a Black Labrador or even a Golden mixed with an Australian Shepherd.
Others say a “black golden” may not even be a Golden at all but rather a Flat Coated Retriever, a dog resembling the “black golden” (and sharing many of the same characteristics of the Golden) but registered as an entirely different breed with the American Kennel Club.
But evidence shows “black goldens” may indeed be black Golden Retrievers, with their unique color resulting from a somatic mutation—an alteration in the DNA of a cell. Such breeding mutations can result in a golden baby with spots of black on its skin, an otherwise shiny golden coat, or even an entirely black coat.
Interestingly, Golden Retrievers are genetically black but look golden-yellow to reddish due to their genes restricting the development of black pigment. A mutation in a particular skin cell allows the black pigment to form in cells descended from the original mutant cell. Some of these Goldens, with their lovely spots, may also sport black noses.
They are black because of the genetic factor produced in their bloodline during the breed evolution programs. Many people believe that breeders used a Flat-Coated Retriever in the breeding process to produce Golden Retrievers, and the black color originates from the dominant gene passed down to the next litter.
Personality And Traits Of Golden Retrievers
| Height | 19–24 inches |
| Weight | 45–70 pounds |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years |
| Colors | White, yellow |
| Right for | Active families, those wanting an unusual-looking dog, those wanting an affectionate but diligent watchdog |
| Nature | Loyal, loving, intelligent, diligent, aloof with strangers |
| Willingness To Learn | 80% (progress bar) |
| Energy Level | 80% (progress bar) |
| Barking Level | 60% (progress bar) |
| Friendliness | 80% (progress bar) |
| Drooling Level | 40% (progress bar) |
Golden Retriever vs. Flat-Coated Retriever
Appearance:
Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful, dense, water-repellent double coats. They typically have a rich, golden coat, but variations in shade can occur. They have a muscular and well-balanced build with a friendly and expressive face. Their ears are medium-sized and pendant.
Flat-Coated Retriever: Flat-coated retrievers have sleek, glossy, and flat-lying coats that can be solid black or liver-coloured (reddish-brown). They are slightly longer and leaner in appearance compared to Golden Retrievers. They have unique, graceful heads, explicit dark eyes, and pendant ears.
Temperament:
Golden Retrievers are excellent pets and buddies because of their warm, friendly, and outgoing personalities. They are very sociable animals, so getting along with people, children, and even other pets is effortless for them.
Their intelligence and willingness to please make them very fun to train. And as if their loving nature weren’t enough, they have long been regarded as one of the most affectionate breeds.
Flat-Coated Retriever: Flat-Coated Retrievers share many of the same friendly and social traits as Golden Retrievers. They are exuberant, cheerful, and always ready to play. They tend to be more spirited and even goofier in their behaviour, making them a joy to be around.
Activity Level:
Golden Retrievers: Golden Retrievers are energetic and lively dogs that need frequent exercise and training to keep their bodies and minds healthy. They love playing fetch, swimming, and taking long walks. They are adaptable, versatile, and do well in suburban homes and urban settings with proper care and attention.
Flat-Coated Retriever: Flat-coated retrievers are full of energy and enthusiasm. They are exceptional in agility, flyball, and advanced obedience. They require a regular dose of physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and bored-free in their daily routines.
Health Considerations:
Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers are prone to health problems and conditions, such as elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and some heart disorders. They may also be liable for particular cancers.
Flat-Coated Retriever: Flat-coated retrievers are susceptible to certain health diseases, including cancer, hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. Frequent medical check-ups and a nutritious diet are very beneficial for their health..
Grooming:
Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers require regular grooming to maintain their dense coats. Brushing on their coat several times a week is beneficial to reduce hair shedding. They may also need occasional baths and ear cleaning.
Flat-Coated Retriever: Flat-Coated Retrievers have a shorter coat that requires regular brushing to minimize shedding. They are generally lower-maintenance in terms of grooming compared to Golden Retrievers.
Black Golden Retrievers and Flat-Coated Retrievers have a variety of physical and appearance differences. Flat-coated ones are taller and leaner than Golden Black Retrievers. These Black Golden Retrievers have a square face, whereas Flat-Coated Retrievers have a slim & slender facial structure.
Flat Coats/Black Retriever dogs have flat fur coats. The fur is less wavy and also less feathery compared to others. Both Black Golden Retriever dogs and simple Golden Retrievers resemble each other except in colour.
Black Golden Retrievers Are Not Recognized By The American Kennel Club!
While this may be news for many, The American Kennel Club does not recognize black Golden Retrievers! One fact you should know about Black Golden Retrievers is that they are not Golden Retrievers. AKC declares that the Black Golden Retriever is not an authorized dog breed or colour.
To be called a Golden Retriever, the dog must have a golden coat. Based on this knowledge, people refer to the breed ‘Black Golden Retriever’ as a ‘polluted’ genetic mutation of the purebred Golden Retriever. This is why AKC does not recognize Black Golden Retrievers.
Black-Coated Breeds That Resemble Golden Retrievers
If you come across a dog that looks like a black Golden Retriever, it’s more likely to be one of the following breeds or mixes:
- Labrador Retriever: Black Labrador Retrievers are pretty standard and can have a striking resemblance to black Golden Retrievers. Labs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, just like their Golden Retriever cousins are.
- Golden Retriever Mix: Dogs that mix a Golden Retriever and another breed may inherit a black coat from the non-Golden Retriever parent. These dog breeds can show a wide range of coat colours and patterns, and a black jacket is certainly possible if one of the parents carries the genes for it.
- Newfoundland: While larger and heavier than Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands can have a solid black coat and share some physical characteristics with Retrievers. However, their size and build are distinctive.
- Gordon Setter: This breed is known for its stunning black and tan coat. While they appear very different from Golden Retrievers, the colour of the black jacket might lead to initial confusion.
- Belgian Sheepdog: These dogs have a solid black coat and may share some physical traits with Retrievers. However, their herding instincts and temperament differ.
- Rottweiler Mix: If a mixed-breed dog has some Rottweiler ancestry and inherits the black coat gene, it might resemble a black Golden Retriever. However, their physical characteristics can vary widely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Golden Retrievers
Are Pure Black Dogs Rare?
Pure black dogs are not necessarily rare, but their occurrence varies by breed and genetics. Some breeds, like Labradors, commonly have black-coated individuals, while others, like Golden Retrievers, rarely do.
Are Black Dogs More Loyal?
A dog’s loyalty is not determined by its coat colour. Loyalty is primarily influenced by temperament, upbringing, and the bond developed with their owner rather than their physical appearance.
Can Golden Retrievers Protect You?
Golden Retrievers do not frequently serve as guard dogs. Still, they can offer security through their alertness and protective instincts toward their family. Their protective abilities may vary by individual.
Can A Golden Retriever Be Aggressive?
While individual dogs can exhibit aggression in certain situations, Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly, sociable, and extroverted nature. While aggression is not a common trait of this dog, but with proper training, exercise, and socialization are crucial for any dog’s behaviour.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, you should approach the allure of a “black golden retriever” with caution. Due to genetic factors, authentic black-coated golden retrievers are an extreme rarity within the breed. While the idea may be intriguing, prioritize a dog’s health, temperament, and lineage overcoat colour.
If you’re set on a black-coated dog, consider exploring breeds like the Flat-Coated Retriever that naturally comes in black. Always acquire dogs from reputable sources; genetic testing can clarify coat colour genetics. Remember that your bond and companionship with your furry friend transcend their coat colour.
