What's the Difference between English and American Golden Retrievers?
The primary differences between American and English Golden Retrievers lie in their appearance, temperament, and sometimes their health profiles. Here's a detailed comparison:
Appearance
American Golden Retrievers:
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Color: Typically range from light golden to dark golden.
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Build: They have a more athletic build with a thinner body and longer legs.
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Coat: The coat is generally dense and water-repellent, and it can be wavy or straight.
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Head: The head is broader with a defined stop (the point where the forehead meets the nose).
English Golden Retrievers:
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Color: Often have a cream or light golden color, which is sometimes referred to as "English Cream."
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Build: They tend to have a stockier build with a broader chest and shorter legs.
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Coat: The coat is typically straighter and shorter compared to the American variety.
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Head: The head is wider with a more pronounced and square-like shape, and the eyes are typically rounder and darker.
Temperament
American Golden Retrievers:
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Generally known for their high energy levels and are often described as being more excitable and playful.
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They are very friendly, social, and good with families and other pets.
English Golden Retrievers:
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Known to have a calmer demeanor and are often seen as more relaxed and gentle compared to their American counterparts.
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They are equally friendly and social, making them great companions for families.
Health
American Golden Retrievers:
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Have a higher incidence of certain cancers, including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma.
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Lifespan tends to be slightly shorter, averaging around 10-12 years.
English Golden Retrievers:
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Studies suggest they have a lower incidence of cancer compared to American Golden Retrievers.
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Their lifespan can be slightly longer, averaging around 12-14 years.
Origin and Breeding Standards
American Golden Retrievers:
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Bred according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) standards, which emphasize a more athletic build.
English Golden Retrievers:
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Bred according to the Kennel Club (UK) or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) standards, which emphasize a stockier build and lighter coat color.
Their health and temperament are superior, but their body when mixed with a poodle is more square and their hair is choppier creating a soft, wavy, fleecy offspring. We also choose blocky poodles.
