The only thing better than one cuddly golden retriever is hundreds of cuddly golden retrievers.

A mass gathering of the friendly family dogs has taken place in the Highlands to mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of the breed.

The world-wide celebration was held at the historic Guisachan Estate, where the first golden retriever was bred in 1868 by Dudley Coutts Marjoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth.

That first litter of puppies, Primrose, Cowslip, Crocus, sired by Nous, a yellow Wavy-coated Retriever and Belle, a Tweed Water Spaniel became the origins of one of today's most beloved breed of dogs the world over.

The Golden Retriever Club of Scotland hosted the official 'Guisachan Gathering' on July 19 with special dog guests from as far as Australia and Canada.

During the week-long celebrations they have also held a quiz, afternoon tea, a torch-lit procession, a gala dinner and a championship show.

Loyal, gentle, friendly (and a little food obsessed) the golden retriever remains one of the most popular dogs in the UK.

Friends of Guisachan, a non-profit organisation comprised of people interested in Golden Retriever history, signed over the long-term lease on historic Guisachan land and a special golden retriever statue to the Golden Retriever Club of Scotland ahead of the anniversary event.

It has become a landmark for golden retriever visitors and other tourists to the area as well.

As John Cotter, Friends Chairman of the Board of Directors said on the unveiling:

"The Friends of Guisachan are very proud to memorialise the original birthplace of the golden retriever with a statue in Tomich, Scotland.

"This is particularly exciting as we approach the 150th anniversary of our breed in 2018.

"We are grateful for our colleagues in the Golden Retriever Club of Scotland who have taken ownership of the statue and surrounding grounds and for the many supporters in this effort through recent years.

"Worldwide, golden retriever lovers now know where and when our breed was established."

With special thanks to Chewy the dog for the images provided.