Who We Are

We’re the Hansons—proud owners and breeders behind Rangeland Retrievers. Our journey with and love of purebred dark Goldens runs deep, rooted in family tradition and a love for the breed that has been passed down for generations. The name "Rangeland" holds a special place in our hearts—it was first used by Jared’s great-uncle, who trained labs in the northern U.S. before he was killed in a tragic accident. His dedication to raising loyal, well-tempered dogs inspired us to carry on the Rangeland legacy, bringing the same level of care, commitment, and passion to our own breeding program.

For us, Rangeland Retrievers isn’t just a business—it’s a way of life. Our purebred, pedigreed dark Golden Retrievers and those we selectively choose to cross breed with, are raised as part of our family, experiencing the same love, adventure, and connection that we hope they bring to yours. Whether you’re looking for a devoted family companion, a reliable hunting partner, or an adventure-ready trail buddy, we’re honored to help you find your perfect Golden.

Our Beginning

Our story with dark Goldens begins long before Scout joined our family. Jared grew up with dark Golden Retrievers, and Beth always joked about needing another redhead in the family. The kids wanted a "sister”, especially Henley, and that’s how Scout became part of our family. She arrived when our youngest was just 10 months old, and bringing her home was one of the best decision we’ve ever made. From kayaking across Arizona to running the ranches of Montana, Scout has been by our side through it all. She’s got a personality to match the chaos of our home, yet the patience and tolerance to be loved on by even the most very rambunctious toddler. Loyal, devoted, and the fastest learner, she’s both a family dog and a bird dog through and through. While her love for retrieving might make life a little more exciting for the chickens, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

By your side through some of life’s most memorable moments.

The Rangeland Retriever Family Line

The Rangeland Retriever Family Line

Registered Name: Tennessee “Scout” Hanson

Scout is the definition of adventure wrapped in golden fur. She is energetic, loving, and always ready to go—whether that means swimming in the lake, hopping into a kayak, or sprinting across open fields. As much as she loves activity, she has an unmatched patience and gentleness, making her the perfect companion for small children who climb, cuddle, and play with her endlessly. Scout is incredibly easy to train and thrives on being right by your side, no matter where life takes you.

Patient, energetic, loyal, loving, athletic.

Registered Name: “Mac” MacGyver Maverick

Gentle, determined, companionable, instinctive.

Mack is the perfect mix of playful and gentle. He is eager to please, quick to learn, and always ready to be a part of the action. Whether he’s romping around the farm or lying peacefully next to a child, Mack has a calm and loving temperament that makes him a wonderful family companion. His intelligence and willingness to learn make training a breeze, and his affectionate nature ensures he’s always close to his people.

Heritage of the Hunter

Grandpa Buck

History of the Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers have a rich history that dates back to the 19th century in Scotland. Developed by Lord Tweedmouth, these dogs were bred to be the ultimate retrieving companions for hunters. By crossing the now-extinct Yellow Retriever with the Tweed Water Spaniel, along with Bloodhounds, Irish Setters, and other retrievers, he created a breed that was intelligent, loyal, and highly skilled in retrieving game from both land and water. Their friendly disposition and eagerness to please quickly made them not just excellent hunting dogs, but also beloved family companions. Today, Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, known for their intelligence, versatility, and loving nature.

Dark Golden Retrievers: The Ultimate Hunting Companion

While Golden Retrievers are known for their various shades of gold, the darker-coated Goldens are often prized among hunters and field trial enthusiasts. These darker retrievers typically descend from strong working and field lines, bred specifically for their endurance, drive, and keen instincts in the field. Their thick, water-resistant coats help them navigate rough terrain and cold waters with ease, making them excellent partners for waterfowl and upland bird hunting. With their sharp intelligence, unwavering loyalty, and natural retrieving ability, dark Golden Retrievers excel as hunting dogs while still maintaining the gentle, affectionate nature that makes them perfect family pets.

FAQs

  • Absolutely! Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are great with children, highly trainable, and love being part of the family. While many choose to use especially dark Goldens for hunting, many are simply family dogs like our Scout. Whether you’re playing the back yard, backpacking through the mountains, or out on the annual hunt, whatever your family culture and activity choice the Golden Retriever will gladly be a part of it.

  • No, dark Golden Retrievers are not a separate breed from lighter Retrievers. While dark Goldens are more rare than their lighter counterparts, they are simply Golden Retrievers with a deeper red, copper, or mahogany shade, often coming from field or working lines heritages.

  • Yes! Goldens are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them one of the easiest breeds to train. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key to their success. In time (often a very short time), there will be no coaxing needed. Whether you want them to sit, retrieve, heal, or even sing and dance to your favorite tunes, they will quickly be responding to your commands and understanding the rules of your home, adventures, or hunts.

  • On average, Golden Retrievers live between 10-12 years though it is possible to enjoy 14-15 years with your retriever. A healthy diet, regular exercise, healthy relationships and interactions, and routine vet checkups can help them live a long and happy life.

  • Yes, Golden Retrievers are generally very social and get along well with other dogs and even cats, especially when properly socialized from a young age. Gradual introduction is always recommended and maintaining supervision of the first interactions can make all animals feel more comfortable and secure as they get to know one another and find their place in their new relationship.

  • Yes! Goldens were originally bred for retrieving game and are excellent hunting companions. They have a natural instinct for retrieving, a soft mouth, and a love for water, making them ideal for both upland and waterfowl hunting. Even if they have never been trained, do not be surprised if your Golden doesn’t find something to bring back to you every now and then!

  • Yes! While Golden Retrievers are known for their golden coats, it is entirely possible for a purebred Golden Retriever to have small white markings, usually on the chest or paws but can appear anywhere on their body. These markings are a natural genetic variation and do not affect the dog’s purebred status or pedigree.

Whether you're looking for a loyal hunting partner or a loving family companion, Golden Retrievers are one of the most versatile and affectionate breeds around. Their combination of intelligence, loyalty, and playfulness makes them an incredible addition to any home. Contact us below to reserve your newest addition today or to get on our waiting list.

Contact us

If you’re looking for a Golden Retriever that’s as loyal as they come, as adventurous as you are, and as loving as family, we’d love to connect with you. Explore our upcoming litters, learn about our process, and get ready to welcome your new best friend.