What does ‘retriever’ mean?

Retrievers are a group of fairly intelligent hunting dogs. They typically help the hunter find game and, after the hunter has shot it, retrieve the prey in their mouth — which is why they are called retrievers.

Retriever breeds include the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Curly-Coated Retriever. The most common are the Golden and Labrador, both of which are gentle, highly obedient, and friendly, making them excellent companion dogs for the home. Many Goldens and Labradors are also trained as guide dogs and therapy dogs.