These pencil black and white drawings are 11" x 14" on acid free, three ply strathmore paper and are signed by Soren Christiansen.

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BREED HISTORY

Retrieving dogs have long existed in Britain, where they were used as hunting assistants to people who sought animals as food and sport. The dogs were capable of finding game and fallen birds on water or land and returning them without damaging the quarry. Throughout the middle and late 19th century, the Golden Retriever was developed to also fill that role. Created largely in secrecy, but with well-documented records, Lord Tweedmouth combined Tweed Water Spaniel, small Newfoundland's, Irish Setters, Bloodhounds and other Water Spaniels at his estate. Emphasis on water skill and hearty physique created yellow-colored dogs with the talent, instinct and build for retrieving work. First known as Yellow Retrievers, the dogs were later called Golden Retrievers.

After their appearance in conformation and field trials during the late 19th century, the dogs gained great popularity across England, and a national club was quickly formed. Travelers across the Atlantic brought the dogs to the United States and Canada during the early part of the 20th century. They were used and bred for hunting, rather than physical appearance, but their attractive shape and coloring made them popular show dogs as well. While dark colors were favored originally, medium and light-colored dogs have gained greater acceptance in the past few decades.

Today, Golden Retrievers remain one of the most versatile and well loved breeds. They can compete in field, hunting, obedience and conformation trials. They also work as therapy, guide, tracking and search and rescue dogs because of their amenable personalities, keen sense of smell and obedience skill. As pets, they are energetic and loyal. They remain one of the most popular pet breeds with owners and families around the world.

IDEAL BREED CHARACTERISTICS

Size: Males 23 to 24 inches, Females 21 1/2 to 22 1/2 inches (at the withers).

Appearance: Proportional, pOverful body with strong, relaxed motion.

Coat and Color: Thick, weather-resistant, close-to-the-body coat is straight or wavy with feathering on the legs, neck and underbody. All varieties of golden color allowed.

Head: Rounded skull with a straight muzzle; deep, medium-sized, dark brown eyes; small ears lay near the cheeks.

Tail: Thick, long and slightly curved.