The Golden Retriever epitomizes fun, good-nature, and loyalty, and is probably the most popular family campanion dog breed. This beautiful and practical breed was developed in Scotland in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, primarily as a gamedog for hunting waterfowl. Lord Tweedmouth did much of the early work, breeding a Tweed Water Spaniel with a Wavy-Coated Retrievers. Later, Irish Setter was included into the mix to make the Golden Retriever one of the premiere water-loving breeds. Though too good-natured to be a guard dog, the Golden is an exceptional companion, and is often used as a guide dog for the disabled, and to comfort ill patients.