Field Golden Retriever: 9 Fascinating Facts You Should Know

As one of the most popular dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are instantly recognizable and are known for their affectionate and loyal personalities.

What fewer people know is that there are actually different types of Goldens. One of the least known types is the Field Golden Retriever. These sweet dogs are highly active types that excel in physical activity, which makes them very suitable for certain people.

Golden Retrievers are one breed but have three different types, each resulting in a slightly different version of a Golden. This is extremely important to know before you welcome one of these dogs into your home because there are certain distinctions between the types.

Today, we’ll focus on the Field Bred Golden Retriever and provide interesting facts and information to help decide if this type is the right one for you. 

Height23 to 24 inches with males being larger than females
WeightMales: 65-75 pounds, females: 55-65
Lifespan10-12 years 
Best suited forActive families 
TemperamentEnergetic, loyal, affectionate 
Price$1,000 to $4,000 per pup

Nine Field Golden Retriever Facts 

1. They have a Scottish History

During the 1800s in Scotland, an aristocrat decided he needed a hunting dog that was both affectionate and driven. By crossing a yellow retriever, a Tweed Water Spaniel (which is now extinct), an Irish Setter, and a Bloodhound, the Golden Retriever breed was born. 

Through further selective breeding, the different lines of the golden began to emerge. The Field Golden was developed further as a gundog with an athletic drive that quickly became a popular hunting companion. Goldens slowly made their way over to Canada and America in the 1900s. 

2. They are a field-bred canine

This line of Golden Retrievers is called “field-bred”, meaning they are bred to assist hunters. Energetic, focused, and easily trainable, Field Goldens thrive with a job to do. Whether it’s swimming, jumping, or running through the forest, these guys can go all day. 

3. They have distinctive coats

A distinct feature of Field Goldens is their coat types. While most Goldens, often called “Show Goldens” have long, fluffy coats, Field Goldens have short, straight coats. This is a specific characteristic bred to allow Field Goldens to swim in water and work in all seasons. 

Aptly named “Goldens”, the AKC accepts most golden shades, from creamy white to a rich gold. Field Golden colors tend to be darker gold shades and often have red or mahogany colored coats.

Unfortunately, red is not an acceptable color for a Golden Retriever according to the AKC. However, it is most often found in the Field bred subtype, which works as they’ll most likely be in the field and not the show ring. 

4. They’re high energy dogs 

High energy breed dogs are not for everyone. These types of dogs require a minimum of 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily and mental stimulation to keep them content.

It is recommended that Field Goldens receive at least 90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily as they were bred to work and do not do well sitting around a house or apartment. 

If you’re an active person or have an active family, Field Goldens will be a great choice.

They’ll be able to keep up on runs and hikes and love to go swimming. They’ll enjoy being active with their family and reward you with affection and loyalty. 

5. They’ve got a mouth and will use it! 

With a high energy drive and a natural desire to “retrieve” game, these guys will place their mouths on anything.

All pets should be monitored with small children, but Fields especially as they’ll want to play rough.

With proper training and positive reinforcement, Fields can be taught to only put their mouth on appropriate objects and not your leg!

They’re highly intelligent dogs that respond well to training, so they can easily be taught what is and what is not okay.

6. Field Golden Retriever Puppies can be expensive

With the popularity of the breed, it is quite easy to find a breeder. But if you’re specifically looking for a Field Golden, be sure to do thorough research and talk to the breeder about the specific Field Golden line.

The puppies will cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 and can reach a whopping $5,000 depending on the bloodline. 

Interestingly enough, while red isn’t an acceptable color for Show Goldens, it can come with a higher price tag in Fields as it’s a rarer color. 

7. What’s their health like? 

Unfortunately, all lines of the Golden Retriever are highly susceptible to cancer. With 60% of all Goldens passing from cancer, it’s a serious issue to consider.

Scientists and researchers are unsure of why this happens so often in the breed. 

Be sure to be prepared for higher vet bills and the heartache of watching your best friend in pain.

This isn’t to scare you away from the breed, but to make you aware of a significant issue with their health. They’ll give you all of their love, no matter the outcome.  

8. They’re great at different types of jobs

Maybe you’re not a hunter but yet want an energetic dog and simply love Goldens! While the Field Golden is definitely not for sitting around the house, they excel in dog competitions and will enjoy dock-diving and agility. 

Perhaps the coolest job though is to be in service! Field Goldens excel as detection dogs, where they use their excellent sense of smell to find forbidden substances.

They excel in search and rescue missions as they are bred to work all day and will work tirelessly to find a lost person. 

9. They are not a distinct breed

Some people are under the impression that Field Bred Golden Retrievers are a breed, but that’s not the case. There are several different types of Goldens, but they’re all part of the Golden Retriever breed. They’re simply subtypes of that breed.

As a result, while there are certain differences between the types their care and appearance are very similar and it’s quite easy to mistake one type for another if you don’t know the difference between them. For instance, the Field Golden Retriever looks quite similar to the Canadian Golden Retriever since they’re very similar in color.


Final thoughts: Is the Field Golden Retriever right for you? 

If you’re an energetic person or family looking to add a pet companion that can match your lifestyle, the Field Golden Retriever may be the right dog for you.

With an abundance of energy and easily trained, these guys will keep up on your adventures and thrive being active with you. 

They’ll also stick to your side through thick and thin as they’re very loyal to their owners and extremely affectionate.

While they may seem aloof while working, during downtime they’ll be right in your lap demanding to be petted.

There are many reasons why Golden Retrievers are a popular breed and the Field line combines those qualities and a hard work ethic. They’ll make an excellent addition to your active home!

ThePetFaq Team