Retriever dog breeds are known for being active, loyal and playful. This is why we love to welcome them into our family. However, did you know that there are 6 types of retriever breeds?
In this AnimalWised article we are going to go through all the different types of retriever breeds. We'll talk about some of their characteristics and show you photos of the breeds. If you're interested in adopting a retriever breed or want to know the difference between them, continue reading this article.
About retriever dogs
The original role of these dogs was to collect the game and deliver it to the hunter. Many breeds within this group, if not all, were employed to collect land birds and water birds, which is why there are some problems in clearly distinguishing between retrievers and water dogs.
The word "retriever"
The word "retriever" means "someone who recovers" or "someone who brings back". This word has became popular in many non-English speaking countries thanks to the huge popularity of the golden retriever and Labrador retriever.
This is why the term "retriever" is most commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries when referring to these dogs, even though "cobrador" would be more appropriate, for instance.
The Golden Retriever is a wonderful companion dog which is currently also used in different services, due to it being one of the world's smartest dogs. It can be an excellent rescue dog, sniffer dog or a loyal therapy dog.
Discover below the 6 different types of retriever dogs:
1. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is undoubtedly the most popular dog from the list of retrievers. They're 4th on the list of the world's smartest dogs, which means they're able to learn an endless number of commands and tricks. It's a sociable, quiet and very sweet dog, which is perfect for all types of families. Learn more about this breed on our Golden Retriever breed sheet.
2. Labrador Retriever
Similar to Golden Retrievers, we find the Labrador Retriever breed. They are also widely known across the world. They can have a black, chocolate or golden coat, as you can see in the photo below. These dogs are also very loyal and playful, making them a great choice for people with an active lifestyle. Learn more on our Labrador Retriever breed sheet.
3. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also called “Toller”, is a medium-sized gundog primarily bred for hunting. Nowadays, these dogs are great companion dogs. As other retriever dogs, they are very active and clever dogs. These dogs adore being in nature and have space to run around and play. This is why rural surrounding are great for this breed. Among all the retriever breeds, these are the smallest breed.
4. Flat-Coated Retriever
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a really gentle, docile and quiet dog that loves spending time with their family. Even though this dog has a relaxed character, exercise is very important to prevent behavioral problems. They're a loyal and protective dog. They either have a black or dark brown coat. This breed originated in England as a gundog but nowadays it's a great companion dog for many families.
5. Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retriever is the shyest of all retrievers. They behave similarly to the Flat-Coated Retriever, in the sense that they love spending time with their family and requires lots of physical activity. They are very cheerful and intelligent dogs and, just like all retrievers, they love playing with water.
Sadly, the Curly Coated Retriever is currently in the list of Vulnerable Native Breeds in the UK and is considered at risk of disappearing.
6. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a dog with a very special temperament, quite different to all other breeds of retrievers. They're intelligent, playful and protective, just like other Retriever breeds. Some Chesapeake Bay Retrievers may be timid and suspicious of strangers. A Chesapeake Bay Retriever will need plenty of exercise and proper socialization so that they don't develop destructive behavioral patterns. Just like other types of Retrievers they make great companion dogs for active people and families.
If you want to read similar articles to Types of Retriever Dogs, we recommend you visit our Comparisons category.