Breed Overview
This overview provides a snapshot of the breed’s general characteristics and care requirements. As with any breed, individual Golden Retrievers may vary in temperament, appearance, and needs.
Physical Characteristics
- SizeMedium to large
- HeightMales 23-24 inches (58-61 cm) at the withers; Females 21.5-22.5 inches (55-57 cm)
- WeightMales 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg); Females 55-65 pounds (25-29 kg)
- Lifespan10-12 years
- CoatDense, water-repellent double coat
- Color Shades of gold, ranging from light to dark
- Grooming Moderate; regular brushing and occasional baths
- TemperamentFriendly, intelligent, reliable
- Energy LevelHigh
- IntelligenceHigh
Health Needs
- ExerciseHigh; requires regular physical activity and mental stimulation
- Trainability Eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with consistency and positive reinforcement
- SocializationTypically excellent with families, children, and other animals
- Grooming Moderate; regular brushing and occasional baths
- Health IssuesProne to certain conditions like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and specific heart and eye conditions
Environment
- Suitability for FamiliesExcellent; known for their patience and gentleness with children
- Suitable Living SpaceAdaptable to both house and apartment living provided they get enough exercise; however, a house with a yard is ideal
About the Breed
Golden Retrievers are intelligent, eager-to-please, and versatile working dogs. While they’re famous for being excellent family pets, they also serve as guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, and search-and-rescue participants. Their amiable temperament makes them outstanding ambassadors for any breed and cherished members of families worldwide.
History of the Breed
The Golden Retriever’s roots trace back to Scotland in the mid-19th century. They were bred to retrieve game from both water and land because hunting was immensely popular among Scottish elites. They emerged from a mix of the now-extinct Yellow Retriever and the Tweed Water Spaniel and were later crossed with Bloodhounds, Irish Setters, and more Tweed Water Spaniels. The goal was a perfect hunting companion, which eventually led to the breed we know and love today.
Fun Facts About the Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the third most popular dog in the United States.
They have an "otter" tail, which they use for balance when swimming.
The breed has taken the top prize at the Westminster Dog Show only once, despite its popularity.
What To Expect When Caring For a Golden Retriever
Health
Like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, and heart issues. Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet can help prolong a healthy life.
Grooming
Their thick double coat sheds, particularly in the spring and fall. Regular brushing, at least once a week, will help minimize shedding and keep the coat healthy. Regular ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and nail trims are also necessary.
Exercise
Golden Retrievers are active and fun-loving animals; they require lots of exercise. A game of fetch, a long walk, or even a swim will keep them happy.
Training
They're eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start early, remain consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques.
Nutrition
A balanced diet is pivotal. Look for high-quality dog foods that list meat as the first ingredient and don't contain fillers like corn. Consider your dog's age, activity level, and health status when feeding.
With the right care, training, and love, your Golden Retriever will be a loyal, loving companion for years to come.
Golden Retriever Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests
Golden Retrievers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health problems. Early detection and regular veterinary check-ups can help manage or mitigate some of these issues. Here's a list of some common health concerns in Golden Retrievers and recommended tests:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Cardiac Issues
- Cancer
- Eye Problems
Description: A heritable condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. It can lead to discomfort and lameness on one or both rear legs.
Recommended Test: Hip Evaluation: OFA or PennHIP evaluation can screen for hip dysplasia.
Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, but affects the elbow joints. It can cause pain and mobility issues.
Recommended Test: Elbow Evaluation: An OFA elbow evaluation is recommended to screen for elbow dysplasia.
Description: Golden Retrievers can suffer from various heart diseases, including subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS).
Recommended Test: Heart: A cardiac exam, often including an echocardiogram, can detect heart issues. OFA offers a certification for cardiac health.
Description: Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers have a higher incidence of cancer than many other breeds. Lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma are particularly common.
Recommended Test: DNA Tests: Certain genetic tests can screen for predispositions to diseases like cancer, though these tests may not exist for all conditions.
Description: Conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and glaucoma can affect Golden Retrievers.
Recommended Test: Eye Certification: Annual exams by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, with results registered with the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF).
Hip Dysplasia
Description: A heritable condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. It can lead to discomfort and lameness on one or both rear legs.
Recommended Test: Hip Evaluation: OFA or PennHIP evaluation can screen for hip dysplasia.
Elbow Dysplasia
Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, but affects the elbow joints. It can cause pain and mobility issues.
Recommended Test: Elbow Evaluation: An OFA elbow evaluation is recommended to screen for elbow dysplasia.
Cardiac Issues
Description: Golden Retrievers can suffer from various heart diseases, including subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS).
Recommended Test: Heart: A cardiac exam, often including an echocardiogram, can detect heart issues. OFA offers a certification for cardiac health.
Cancer
Description: Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers have a higher incidence of cancer than many other breeds. Lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma are particularly common.
Recommended Test: DNA Tests: Certain genetic tests can screen for predispositions to diseases like cancer, though these tests may not exist for all conditions.
Eye Problems
Description: Conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and glaucoma can affect Golden Retrievers.
Recommended Test: Eye Certification: Annual exams by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, with results registered with the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF).
Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these conditions. It's also crucial to purchase Golden Retrievers from reputable breeders who perform health screenings on their breeding animals to reduce the risk of hereditary diseases.
Prescription Medication Assistance for Golden Retrievers
The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Programis a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE
How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Golden Retriever?
Caring for a Golden Retriever involves several expenses that can add up over the year. The total annual cost can vary depending on factors such as the dog’s age, health, and the quality of care provided. Below is a breakdown of the primary expenses involved in caring for a Golden Retriever:
- Purchase Price
- Initial Supplies
- Food
- Grooming
- Veterinary Care
- Pet Insurance
- Miscellaneous Supplies
- Training
- Emergency Medical Expenses
- Boarding or Pet Sitting
- License and Microchip
A purebred Golden Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.
Initial Cost
$500 - 3000
Potential Additional Costs:
When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Golden Retriever enthusiasts.
Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.
Initial Cost
$200 - 500
Potential Additional Costs:
You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.
Choose a high-quality dog food and treats for a medium to large breed dog.
Estimated Cost
$250 - 700
Potential Additional Costs:
Learn more about the best quality dog food for Golden Retrievers.
Golden Retrievers require regular grooming.
Estimated Cost
$100 - 500
Potential Additional Costs:
If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.
Golden Retrievers require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.
Estimated Cost
$100 - 300
Potential Additional Costs:
The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.
Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.
Estimated Cost
$200 - 600
Potential Additional Costs:
Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Golden Retriever's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!
Your Golden Retriever will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.
Estimated Cost
$100 - 300
Potential Additional Costs:
Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.
Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.
Estimated Cost
$500 - 1000
Potential Additional Costs:
Online Courses are available and can help you save money.
Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.
Estimated Cost
Varies based on need
Potential Additional Costs:
Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.
If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.
Estimated Cost
Varies based on need
Potential Additional Costs:
Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.
A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.
Estimated Cost
$50 - 200
Total Estimated Annual Cost:
$2000 - $7100
It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.
Golden Retriever Resources
- CBD for Golden Retrievers: What You Need to Know
- Best Supplements for a Senior Golden Retriever
- Best Dog Foods for Golden Retrievers
- Best Online Dog Training Courses for Golden Retriever
- What Supplements Should I Give a Golden Retriever Puppy?
- The 9 Best Golden Retriever Puppy Foods
- Best Dog Beds for Golden Retrievers
- Giving This to Your Golden Retriever Daily Can Alleviate Itchy Allergies
- 6 Natural Ingredients to Fight Your Golden Retriever's Allergies
- 8 Ways to Stop Your Golden Retriever's Scratching
- 7 Ways to Calm Your Golden Retriever's Anxiety
- 6 Remedies for Your Golden Retriever's Diarrhea, Gas, or Vomiting
- 7 Best Dental Chews for a Golden Retriever
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Related products
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