488 Retrievers in Scotland: The Epic Gathering of Golden Joy
Can you imagine the uproar of 488 golden retrievers barking all at once? It’s a scenario that can leave you feeling utterly helpless, like trying to soothe a crying baby with no success. Now multiply that sense of chaos by, you guessed it, 488, and add in relentless rain and pesky midges.
The reason for this canine chorus was the 2023 Guisachan Gathering, a unique convention for golden retrievers held in the picturesque Scottish Highlands. Every five years, owners and their furry companions make the pilgrimage to Guisachan to commemorate the founding anniversary of this beloved breed.
The highlight of the event is the group photo, where all the dogs are gathered on a vast lawn in front of the ruins of Guisachan House. The task is to leash the dogs to a stake, then step away for about 15 seconds, allowing the photographer, Lynn Kipps, to capture the happy horde.
In golden retriever time, 15 seconds feels like an eternity, and the dogs seemed to believe they were abandoned forever, leading to a chorus of panic-induced barks. However, once the owners returned to their four-legged friends, the chaos gave way to a flood of affection and treats.
The Guisachan Gathering honors Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth, who resided in Guisachan House. In 1868, he is credited with creating the golden retriever breed by crossbreeding a wavy-coated retriever with a tweed water spaniel. He envisioned a loyal and skilled hunting companion with a beautiful head, a gentle temperament, and endearing, soulful eyes, along with a penchant for retrieving game. And, to their delight, a fondness for tennis balls and rolling in dirt came as part of the package.
Participants and their furry friends travel from all corners of the globe to attend the Guisachan Gathering, and this year’s event saw representation from Ireland, Bavaria, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, the United States, Australia, Canada, and Croatia. Many come for the sheer joy of being part of this grand celebration, where the love for golden retrievers transcends borders.
The gathering has grown in size over the years, and accommodations book up months in advance. Some participants wish they could bring more dogs, but most B&Bs and camping sites impose a two-dog limit. Nevertheless, the charm of the occasion draws countless golden enthusiasts, eager to share their love for these endearing creatures.
The festivities include hunting dog demonstrations, a dog show, and even a unique “haggis hurling” competition for humans. Another highlight is posing in front of the brass golden retriever statue in the nearby village of Tomich, creating cherished memories for both dogs and owners.
As with any enthusiast gathering, there are diverse opinions on the breed’s characteristics and standards. Susan Goodwin, an esteemed breeder and judge from Durham, England, voiced concerns about certain trends affecting the breed’s health, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced physical structure.
The Guisachan Gathering is more than just a breed convention—it’s a testament to the unwavering sunniness and boundless joy that golden retrievers bring into people’s lives. While goldens have captured the hearts of many, they have yet to win Best in Show at prominent dog shows like Westminster or Crufts. Nonetheless, for the attendees, it’s the loving spirit and delightful antics of these dogs that matter most.
For many, the Guisachan Gathering is a pilgrimage, a chance to reminisce about their beloved pets, and for some, like Judith Newman, an opportunity to scatter their late golden retriever Monty’s ashes on the hallowed grounds of Guisachan House.
In the end, it’s the joy of being surrounded by hundreds of furry friends, and the shared sense of camaraderie and love that make the Guisachan Gathering a truly remarkable and heartwarming event for all golden retriever enthusiasts.
