9 Golden Retriever Characteristics That Will Surprise You

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How well do you know your beloved golden retriever?

Sure, everybody knows they’re sweet and playful, but these nine characteristics reveal there’s a lot more to them than most people think!

From duck-like feet, to color-changing eyes, to holding multiple world records, golden retrievers are quite dynamic.

But unfortunately, not all of the qualities listed here are good.

#8 is upsetting (and bewildering), but scientists are working on it!

Keep on reading to learn more about these interesting golden retriever characteristics.

#1: Golden Retrievers Have Webbed Feet

Golden retrievers were bred to retrieve gunned down birds back in the 1800s in Scotland.

They were sometimes required to swim through marshes and wetlands, and one of the characteristics that helped them succeed at that is their webbed feet.

The first golden retrievers were a mix between a Tweed Water Spaniel and a wavy-coated retriever, which gave them these webbed feet.

It’s not very obvious that they have them, since they keep their toes close together and their feet are furry, but next time you clip your golden’s nails, check it out!

#2: Golden Retrievers Have A Double Coat

golden retriever characteristic #2: double coat