Black Golden Retriever Information & Characteristics

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world. Most dog enthusiasts assume that they only come in shades of gold. However, did you know that Black Golden Retrievers also exist? No, we don’t mean Flat-Coated/Black Retrievers or Black Labradors, but the black version of Golden Retrievers. Black Golden Retrievers are not a separate breed, but simply genetic mutations of Golden Retrievers.

Just like their golden counterparts, the Black Golden Retrievers also have long, silky double coats, but in black. This type of Golden Retrievers too, have a broad and lean physique. These pawsome beings are extremely loyal, tolerant, and smart, making them great family companions. One of the best parts of bringing a Black Golden Retriever home is that it is easy to train and quick to learn. Moreover, these Golden Retrievers are one of the best cuddle buddies!

However, there are many interesting facts that you might not know about Black Golden Retrievers. So, let’s explore them in this article.

Black Golden Retrievers are not recognized by the American Kennel Club! 

One fact that you should know about Black Golden Retrievers, they are not actually Golden Retrievers. While this may be news for many, this has been justified by the American Kennel Club. AKC states that the Black Golden Retriever is not an official dog breed or color form. To be called a Golden Retriever, the dog must have a golden coat. Based on this information, the breed ‘Black Golden Retriever’ is considered a ‘polluted’ genetic mutation of the purebred Golden Retriever. This is why Black Golden Retrievers are not recognized by AKC.

Difference between Black Golden Retrievers and Flat-Coated Retrievers 

• History and origin

The Flat-Coated Retriever is a sporting breed from England. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-1800s. This breed was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1915. Flat-Coated Retriever dogs have medium-length flat fur coat. Dogs from this breed primarily come in shades like black or liver. On the other hand, Black Golden Retrievers are a result of genetic manipulation. They are crossbreeds that contain genes from breeds like Golden Retrievers, Flat-Coated Black Retrievers, Black Labrador Retrievers, Black German Shepherds, and Black Goldendoodles.

It all began with Golden Retrievers that were first bred in 1868 by a Scottish man -- Lord Tweedmouth. He bred a yellow wavy-coated Retriever with Tweed Water Spaniel, and the Golden Retrievers were born. Eventually, with the recessive genes of Flat-Coated Black Retrievers and Golden Retrievers, Black Golden Retrievers were crossbred. However, as mentioned earlier, Black Golden Retrievers are not registered with the American Kennel Club. 

• Physical attributes

Black Golden Retrievers and Flat-Coated Retrievers have many physical differences. Flat-Coated ones are taller and leaner as compared to Golden Black Retrievers. These Black Golden Retrievers have a box-like face, whereas, Flat-Coated Retrievers have a slender face. As their name suggests, Flat Coats/Black Retriever dogs have fur coats that lay flat. The fur is less wavy and comparatively less feathery. Similarly, Black Golden Retriever dogs completely resemble Golden Retrievers except in color.