Show Goldens and field Goldens are very different in both type and drive, but no one argues whether they are the same breed. Owners of both types want different things, and if those dogs were bred together they would produce goldens. Have you not seen two wonderful "typy" dogs whose puppies did not share the temperament or physical characteristics of their parents? Genetics is a tricky thing. I have also seen two very different dogs produce puppies BETTER than either parent.
I believe they are different types of the same breed. Maybe all dogs don't have all of the same characteristics to fit into a mold, but neither do we... That is what prejudice is based on isn't it? Some of my registered dogs cannot easily be identified as what they are. Does that mean they aren't? No, they just aren't "show" quality. Maybe they are better. Variety is what allows us all to have what we want in the breed we love, and I think it makes it stronger and more interesting.
Michelle, how well you do showing under any registry will be based on that judges OPINION, the current fad of that registry, in that part of the country, at that time, on that day... excluding any politics (don't make me go there
). Either way you will learn a lot. Useful information? You decide.
Pedigree has alot to do with pride, but doesn't make the dog.
I have seen a breeder ( will not mention name) practically slobber over a beautiful dog he wanted to breed to... to find out the dog wasnt registered... then acted as if it was some kind of cur or mongrel. Come ON!