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:

• Color: Typically range from light golden to dark golden.

• Build: They have a more athletic build with a thinner body and longer legs.

• Coat: The coat is generally dense and water-repellent, and it can be wavy or straight.

• Head: The head is broader with a defined stop (the point where the forehead meets the nose).

English Golden Retrievers:

• Color: Often have a cream or light golden color, which is sometimes referred to as "English Cream."

• Build: They tend to have a stockier build with a broader chest and shorter legs.

• Coat: The coat is typically straighter and shorter compared to the American variety.

• 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:

• Generally known for their high energy levels and are often described as being more excitable and playful.

• They are very friendly, social, and good with families and other pets.

English Golden Retrievers:

• Known to have a calmer demeanor and are often seen as more relaxed and gentle compared to their American counterparts.

• They are equally friendly and social, making them great companions for families.

Health

American Golden Retrievers:

• Have a higher incidence of certain cancers, including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma.

• Lifespan tends to be slightly shorter, averaging around 10-12 years.

English Golden Retrievers:

• Studies suggest they have a lower incidence of cancer compared to American Golden Retrievers.

• Their lifespan can be slightly longer, averaging around 12-14 years.

Origin and Breeding Standards

American Golden Retrievers:

• Bred according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) standards, which emphasize a more athletic build.

English Golden Retrievers:

• 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.