This slideshow of dog pictures features the Golden Retriever, one of the top ten most popular breeds in the U.S. Known for the friendly, tolerant attitude that makes them great pets, Goldens also have the brains to serve as working dogs, retrieving game for hunters, sniffing out contraband, and assisting the disabled. They're also natural athletes, and do well in dog sports such as agility and competitive obedience.

Developed in the Scottish highlands estate of a gentleman hunter, the Golden Retriever was designed to be a skilled retriever, attentive to his human hunting companion, and loyal and even-tempered in the home. All the dogs seen in these photos can be traced back to a single dog, a yellow Wavy-Coated Retriever named Nous, who was bred to a Tweed Water Spaniel (now an extinct breed).

As the dog pictures show, Golden Retrievers come in many shades of golden, from a creamy light gold to a dark honey color. If you want a Golden, be prepared to have that gorgeous blond hair show up on furniture and clothes, because Goldens are moderate to heavy shedders. They can take a full two years to reach their adult weight of 55 to 75 pounds.

Because the Golden Retriever is so popular, there are many people breeding Goldens who care more about making money out of the demand for puppies than in breeding happy, healthy dogs. If these dog pictures make you want to get a Golden, consider adopting a good dog looking for a home, or find a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs for health and sound temperaments.