Before we start telling a story about this great dog, listen out to our resident goodest of boys, telling you how to keep a Golden Retriever healthy and happy:
Hello, I’m Sunny! Keeping us Goldens happy is easy–peasy. We love exercise, so take us for swims or long walks. We’re social butterflies, so playdates are a must. Want us to look fabulous? Grooming is the key. There’s no such thing as too much love and attention! Tummies up, boys!
🐕 Sunny
Pay attention, because he barks out all the Golden Retriever’s well-kept secrets!
Temperament & Personality
The Golden Retriever is renowned for its friendly, warm, and affectionate nature. It is a gentle-tempered dog, with a very patient behavior towards humans.
Its character is shaped by lineage and proper training. A well-socialized Golden Retriever will be eager to please its owner and thus, easy to train.
It has a steady and balanced personality; it’s neither overly aggressive nor timid. It is a very sociable dog, in constant seek of human affection who will enjoy being integrated into your daily activities.
Its sociable attitude comes with a minus, as it can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. While Golden Retrievers are more predisposed to separation anxiety, many dog breeds have it. You have a few tactics you can use to help your doggie overcome this (like a “safety cue”).
Compatibility with Kids & Other Pets
Nothing brings more joy to children than a furry, four-legged friend. And many seek this particular breed for their children, because of its even temper and gentleness. The affectionate Golden Retriever will form strong lifetime bonds with the young members of its family.
This friendly dog will love engaging with the little ones in energic games and activities. No matter what game they’ll be playing, the Golden will be calm and act gentle.
Towards babies, it exhibits a protective instinct. The Golden Retriever is a dog that is good “with” kids, but also good “for” kids. Its playful demeanor will surely keep the little ones busy.
However, any activity that includes both kids and dogs will require adult supervision, to avoid any accidents.
When it comes to other animals, a properly socialized Golden can coexist peacefully in a household with multiple pets. Because of its native prey instinct, it may be attracted to the fast movements of small animals such as cats or rabbits, but a well-trained dog will not engage in chases.
Physical Characteristics
This blonde dog belongs in the large breed category. Its coat got him the name, as it comes in colors that range from light to dark gold. It is free of markings, stripes, and other patterns. A purebred Golden’s fur will always have only yellow hues. If other variations are present, it’s a mixed breed.
His coat has two layers: the outer coat, and a dense undercoat. The outer layer is the one that gives it a unique appearance with a water-repellent and straight or wavy. The undercoat is short, and dense and provides insulation.
Adult males typically stand between 23-24 inches (58-61 cm) in height at the withers, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 21.5-22.5 inches (54.5-57 cm).
The Golden’s weight has some variations, but males usually weigh between 65-75 pounds (29.5-34 kg) and females 55-65 pounds (25-29.5 kg).
The Golden is an athletic dog, with a powerful build, yet a smooth, powerful gait. According to the breed standards, the Golden Retriever should have a strong body, longer than tall, with a well-defined muscular structure.
It has a broad head, with a long muzzle, big brown eyes, and medium-sized floppy ears, that fold over. Its tail reaches its hock (below the knee) and is covered in long hair with blonde shades.
Obedience, Trainability & Intelligence
The Golden is recognized for its intelligence and eagerness to please. This dog excels in obedience training due to its desire to work alongside its human companions. These are the main reasons it is easy to train, using the right techniques.
Puppy training focuses on social skills and basic commands such as “sit”, “stay”, and “heel”. Methods that work best are positive reinforcement, along with treats and praise.
The Golden Retriever actually enjoys obedience training, which isn’t all about manners, but has the role of reinforcing the bond between the dog and owner.
Training should be planned according to every development stage. Because this dog matures around the age of 24 months, continuous training is a must.
During training classes, it’s essential to maintain a clear and neutral tone, that will help the dog establish your role as a pack leader.
Below, you will find the stages of training for a Golden Retriever, according to its age:
| Training Stage | Approx. Age | Focus Points |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Kindergarten | 2-6 months | Socialization, basic commands |
| Basic Obedience | 6 months onward | Sit, stay, come |
| Advanced Training | 1 year onward | Off-leash control, tricks |
Another reason for this dog’s incredible popularity is that it’s ranked as one of the most intelligent and trainable dog breeds. It has a natural aptitude for learning and a desire to please its owners or handlers.
Its cognitive abilities place it ~3rd-5th (of course, varies in different rankings by different organizations) among canine breeds for obedience and working intelligence. Border Collies, Poodles, and German Shepherds are usually ahead of the pack, but not by much.
The Golden Retriever is such a quick learner that the training process is usually very smooth. It’s capable of understanding commands after just a few repetitions. Thus, it is a versatile dog breed, allowing it to perform various roles, such as service dog for people with disabilities, search-and-rescue missions, and as a therapy companion.
Energy Level & Exercise Needs
Well known for its active and playful nature, your Golden Retriever needs to exercise a lot. Its high energy level makes it a suitable companion for an athletic owner. Out of shape and static all the time? Not sure this would be the choice dog for you.
Puppies should do shorter, regular exercises – approximately 5 minutes per month of age, according to their developmental stage (usually called the “5-minute rule” by vets and pros). For example, a 2-month-old puppy needs only 10 minutes of daily exercise, to avoid undue strain on its joints.
Adult Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, require 1-2 hours of exercise daily, which can include: strolls or brisk walks; swimming, if possible; interactive games or agility training.
Enough exercise also prevents boredom, which might manifest as unwanted behaviors like chewing around the house or restlessness and disobedience. It’s important to vary the dog’s routine as much as possible. A lack of exercise can also lead to obesity and other health issues.
One of the world’s most popular dog breeds, the Golden Retriever, is also among the most likely to become obese. In fact, nearly 63% of Golden Retrievers are overweight, according to data collected by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.
Arlene Weintraub, Fierce Pharma via Golden Retriever Lifetime Study, Morris Animal Foundation’s research program that’s tracking more than 3,000 dogs throughout their lifetimes.
The Golden Retriever has an innate love for fetching. It loves chasing sticks, balls or frisbees, and it’s a fun way to exercise its retrieving instinct. Engaging in fetch also provides mental stimulation for the dog and cements the bond between him and you as the owner (or handler).
It’s important to consider the dog’s health level when it comes to exercise. Although the Golden is generally sturdy, it can be predisposed to joint issues. Therefore, its activity level must match its age and physical condition.
Golden Retriever Puppies
Golden Retriever puppies are an absolute joy for the eye of the beholder, because of their charm and beautiful golden coats. They look like miniatures of their parents and are irresistible to any animal lover.
When you want to buy a puppy, you must always search for renowned kennels, that own AKC-registered parents with health certifications. This includes a series of illnesses they’re predisposed to.
Puppies aged 6-10 weeks need to start basic training right, from learning where to poo and pee around the house. Later on, around the age of 10-16 weeks, during the teething phase, training must advance and also discourage habits like chewing. Early exposure to different people, sights, and sounds is very good for the puppy’s development.
Investing in (not only financially but also with love and care) a Golden Retriever puppy is a commitment to obtain a well-adjusted and happy adult dog that will be your best friend forever.
Lifespan, Health Issues & Nutrition
The average lifespan of the Golden is 10-12 years. While it’s generally a healthy dog, there are some health issues you need to pay attention to.
The Golden Retriever may develop the so-called “hot spots”. That’s a form of dermatitis caused by the dog’s coat, that retains moisture close to the skin. Some dogs also develop atopic dermatitis, the result of an allergic skin disease.
It can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, which are genetic conditions of the hip and elbow joints. These lead to pain, inability to walk, and arthritis.
Another thing you need to be aware of is heart conditions, such as valvular stenosis. Any signs of weakness and tiredness are a pretty good indicator of this disease.
This breed, unfortunately, also has a predisposition to cancer and leukemia:
Bernese mountain dogs, flat-coated retrievers, golden retriever, and rottweilers were in the top 5 breeds with over 20% of deaths due to cancer in Denmark.
Jane M. Dobson, Breed-Predispositions to Cancer in Pedigree Dogs
Regular visits to the vet ensure a good monitoring of the dog’s overall health. Specific care and preventative measures can help manage these health issues.
When it comes to nutrition, things are somehow delicate. The Golden needs a diet that supports its size, energy levels, and, most importantly, weight. As we’ve mentioned before, this dog can get obese, so apart from the diet itself, it also needs portion control.
The diet must be always adjusted to your dog’s life stage. Here are some estimates for the recommended daily calorie intake, below:
| Life Stage | Daily Caloric Intake |
|---|---|
| Puppy | 1,600-1,700 kcal |
| Adult | 1,300-1,500 kcal |
| Senior | 1,100-1,300 kcal |
The key components of a Golden Retriever’s diet are:
- proteins, for muscle development and repair (~22.5% for growth and ~18% for adult maintenance).
- fats, needed for energy and a healthy coat (~8.5% for growth and ~5.5% for adult maintenance).
- carbohydrates, which provide additional energy.
- vitamins and minerals, crucial for overall health.
Commercial dog foods for large breeds that meet AAFCO standards typically include all of the above.
Puppies should receive three meals a day, while adult dogs only require two. Avoid feeding your dog leftovers or cheap dog food and treats, as these can lead to your dog developing various skin conditions.
Grooming Needs
A shiny coat like the Golden’s needs a bit of care. The dog also experiences heavy shedding, so a regular grooming schedule is essential.
Brush your dog’s coat at least 3-5 times a week, to keep shedding under control. This can also help to monitor the skin’s condition. Use a quality wire brush to remove dead hair and evenly distribute the coat’s natural oils.
You may also want to wash your dog’s teeth, but this requires early training on your part. It prevents dental issues such as tartar and bad breath.
Trim your dog’s nails every month, to prevent overgrowth that can lead to discomfort or difficulty walking. If your Golden is still a puppy, here’s a good 7-day guide on how to lean him in, for nail trimming.
Unlike other dog breeds, bathing a Golden is recommended every month, especially if it goes swimming in lakes and ponds. Always use dog shampoo and make sure to rinse the dog’s coat thoroughly, as build-up residue can irritate the skin.
Adoption & Rescue Options
So far, you’ve gotten to know things about the Golden Retriever and you’d like to have one of your own. Will it be a puppy or a full-grown dog?
Adopting a Golden from an animal shelter or a specialized rescue group can be a rewarding experience. You can find dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors. A visit to your local shelters will surely help you find the perfect dog.
Rescue groups, as well as animal shelters, offer dogs for adoption that have been tested for diseases, vaccinated, microchipped and neutered. These dogs go through the process of “re-training” if, for various reasons, they weren’t properly trained in the first place or they had certain behavioral issues.
If you want to adopt a puppy, make sure you find a renowned kennel, that performs genetic testing on their litter. When you buy a Golden puppy, the kennel must provide papers that certify this. Professional breeders engage in good breeding practices to maintain their fame and the quality of their litter.
Here’s a list for Golden Retriever shelters and rescue organizations (always do your own research and search for your hyper-local shelter locations):
- https://www.asgoodasgold.org/golden-retrievers-for-adoption/ (Illinois)
- https://grinrescue.org/ (Ohio)
- https://ygrr.org/ (Massachusetts)
- https://scgrrescue.org/ (California)
- https://tgrr.org/ (North Carolina)
- https://ragom.org/adopt/ (Minnesota)
- https://gbgrr.org/ (Houston area)
- https://ngrr.org/ (California)
- https://goldenbondrescue.com/ (Oregon)
- https://www.grrmf.org/ (Florida)
Cost of Ownership
If you consider adopting a Golden, you must prepare for the initial costs, as well as for the ongoing expenses. The initial purchase price typically ranges from $500 to $3,000, depending on whether the puppy has been genetically tested, has a pedigree and the breeder’s reputation.
A cheaper alternative would be adopting a Golden Retriever, which would cost around $200 to $300. These fees are used to cover the organization’s expenses with neutering, vaccination, microchipping and other costs.
After you bring the dog home, you might want to consider professional training. This will be another $1000 or so. If you want to train the dog yourself (unless you have some experience training dogs, we wouldn’t recommend it for anything else than basic commands), consider the price for treats as well.
Your dog will also need accessories like a bed or crate, leashes, toys and shampoos.
Some costs will be monthly, including parasite control and food. Annual costs include vaccination, and veterinary check-ups, which range from $500-$1500 (a lot of variation here, but it’s just to have an idea).
It is important to consider the quality of products and services you will acquire, as premium food and good healthcare can increase overall costs. Special circumstances such as health issues may also lead to additional expenses, so you should consider pet insurance.
Preparing Your Home
The first step when welcoming a Golden Retriever into your home is to create a safe and comfy space for your new furry friend. This means you have to prepare the house entirely, as this fellow is a big chewer.
You’ll have to secure all small objects, electrical cords and outlets that may become the Golden’s lunch. It may be attracted to plants, so be sure to remove any toxic plant it may come across. Remember all those shiny and colorful bottles of detergents or cleaners? Put them away, far from the dog’s reach.
If you need to block its access to certain parts of the house, you can install dog gates.
Your dog will also need food and water bowls. Also, as a puppy, consider using pet pads, away from the feeding area.
Your furry blonde fellow will need a bed spacious enough for him to lie down. It’s better to install the bed in a quiet area of your home.
Don’t forget about chewing toys, to keep the little fellow entertained.
It’s important to also establish a routine for feeding, walking, and potty breaks right from the beginning. Young puppies generally need to relieve themselves after meals, playtime, and naps.
If you own a backyard, make sure the fence isn’t loose, to prevent any escapes. If you intend to leave the dog outside at all times, it needs a shaded area, especially in the summertime, and a covered place for its food and water bowls, where rain or snow can’t reach.
Interesting Facts & Quirks
The Golden Retriever tends to be quite… mouthy. It has an instinct to carry around items in its mouth, though it may sometimes want to chew on those too. This behavior is consistent with its origin as a retrieving dog. As the name may suggest, a retriever dog is a dog used to retrieve prey during hunting season.
Everything is food. Many dogs may be picky eaters, but this is not the case here. The Golden Retriever is a greedy eater, and if something smells nice, even though it’s not edible, it might still end up in its stomach.
It doesn’t act like an adult dog, never ever. Its playfulness will remain the same in adult life as it was in puppyhood. Some might say it’s a dog that never becomes mature.
The Golden doesn’t know its size, either. It can spend its day bumping into walls or chairs or even climbing on you because it has little sense of where its body is in space. When it’s actively engaged in a game, it’s likely to go as hard as it can, even if it will hit a tree, your legs, or a parked car.
The Golden Retriever is not a good barker and also a bad protection dog. Because it’s a loving and affectionate breed, the reality is it may sometimes mistake an intruder for a friend, in its quest for affection.
A fun piece of trivia is the Golden Retrievers’ White House history: Presidents Ford (dog’s name was Liberty) and Reagan (dog’s name was Victory) both had Golden Retrievers during their presidencies.
Golden Retriever Names
Such a sunny dispositioned dog requires a name that will surely remind you of happiness.
Many owners like names that reflect personality, like Joy, for its friendly nature, or Buddy, as it is a great companion, or Sunny, reminding of the sun.
Others like inspirational names, such as Champion, Hero, or Rocky. For example, Gerald R. Ford’s female Golden Retriever was named Liberty, as we’ve told you above.
It’s important to choose a name that you’ll feel comfortable calling out for years to come.
Breed History & Origin
The Golden Retriever has a rich heritage closely tied to the United Kingdom, particularly Scotland. The development of this beloved breed began in the late 19th century, by Baron Tweedmouth, who had the vision to create a superior gundog suited for the rainy climate and rugged terrain of the region.
He crossed Flat-coated Retrievers, yellow-colored, with a now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel. This mix was enhanced with infusions from the Bloodhound and Irish Setter, thus creating today’s golden-coated versatile and skilled retriever.
Baron Tweedmouth attentively selected dogs with a friendly and loyal temperament, to obtain a dog that excelled both in the field as a hunting retriever dog and as a companion animal. The first few representatives of what we now recognize as Golden Retrievers appeared in dog shows around 1906, then known as “Retriever – Wavy or Flat-Coated”.
The UK Kennel Club acknowledged the breed as the “Retriever – Yellow or Golden” in 1911, and later as the “Retriever – Golden” in 1920. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Golden Retriever in 1932, and it rapidly gained popularity, both for its skills in the field and its amiable nature.
Today, the Golden Retriever remains one of the most popular and esteemed dog breeds globally.
