As an animal lover, even at the best of times, it's hard to resist any one species whether it's domestic or wild. The same can be said about plush toys, especially for those that collect them or simply just love them like they do animals. When it comes to a golden retriever stuffed animal, like the real thing, it is an irresistible soft toy thanks to its welcoming face, soft golden fur, and all around pleasing demeanor. A golden retriever stuffed animal is a must for any animal lover and/or plush toy admirer.
The earliest known origins of the golden retriever breed, began in the 1800s in Scotland. Lord Tweedmouth, a British Aristocrat, was the one that developed it. On Scottish estates, hunting was a way of life, providing both sport and sustenance, and as a result, Tweedmouth, along with other British Lords, looked to develop the best hunting dogs possible for upland game birds. A practical game dog, however, was not the only requirement; attractive looking animals were also a necessity. The end result was the golden retriever breed which was both a skillful hunter and beautiful.
The breed that was the foundation of the golden Retriever is now extinct the Tweed water spaniel. But, through the years, other breeds were crossed with Tweed water spaniel which resulted in such breeds as red setters, Labrador retriever's, bloodhounds and Newfoundland's (although these dogs then, were quite different from the breeds of the same names today). It was through this cross-breeding that the golden retriever got its exceptional character and skill including scenting ability, strong prey drive, and easy-going temperament. By the time the 1900s rolled around, the golden retriever had developed into outstanding hunting and retrieving dog. It also became well known for its signature features a golden coat and sweet disposition.
The golden retriever's we know today, are all descendants of the original companion hunters of the 18 and 1900s. These are now dogs that walk quietly while heeling and/or sit patiently until they are told to retrieve fallen game on land or in the water. Golden retriever's need to be a strongly driven dog so they can find and retrieve animals while with hunters that walk. In addition, they must have a soft mouth so when they pick up and deliver game, it does not become damaged. They also need to be confident and friendly so they can easily adapt to working with groups of hunters and other dogs.
A golden retriever stuffed animal will never have to worry about getting its coat wet while retrieving game in the water, nor will it ever have to wait patiently to be told it can move forward. In fact, a golden retriever stuffed animal will never be a working dog at all, but rather, a loving, constant companion for those lucky enough to have one.
Angeline Hope is a collector of big stuffed dog toys. You can view a selection of dog plush animals at MyBigPlush.
