Retrievers
A retriever is a type of gun dog that retrieves game for a hunter. Generally gun-dogs are divided into three major
classifications: retrievers, flushing spaniels, and pointing breeds. Retrievers were bred primarily to retrieve birds or other
prey and return them to the hunter without damage. Although spaniels and some pointing breeds routinely retrieve game, and
many retrievers are skilled in finding game, retrievers are distinguished in that non-slip retrieval is their primary function. As a
result, retriever breeds are bred for soft mouths and a great willingness to please, learn, and obey. A soft mouth refers to the
willingness of the dog to carry game in its mouth without biting into it. "Hard mouth" is a serious fault in a hunting dog and is
one that is very difficult to correct. A hard-mouthed dog renders game unpresentable or at worst inedible.
The retriever's
willingness to please and trainability have made retrievers such as the Labrador
Retriever and Golden Retriever popular as
assistance dogs.
