5 Things to Know About Golden Retrievers

AKC Group
Sporting

Weight
65-75 lbs. (male);
55-65 lbs. (female)

Height
23-24 in. (male);
21.5-22.5 in. (female)

Life Span
10-12 years

1. Key Characteristics of Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are active and friendly dogs who have a water-repellant double coat.

Their signature gold color varies from light to dark, and they are one of the most popular breeds in the United States.

2. Where Golden Retrievers Came From

Golden Retrievers were created in 19th-century Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth by crossing a Yellow Retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel. The offspring was later crossed with Irish Setters, Bloodhounds and more spaniels to become the breed we know today.

The cross-breeding produced a dog who would do well at retrieval on land or water.

Some notable events detail the Golden Retriever’s rise in popularity:

• The dogs were first shown in England in 1908 at the Crystal Palace.
• The Golden Retriever Club of England was formed in 1913.
• These dogs appeared in the United States starting in the 1920s.
• The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the dogs in 1925.
• The first 3 dogs of any breed to win the AKC obedience champion title were all Golden Retrievers.

3. How Friendly Are Golden Retrievers?

Golden Retrievers are friendly dogs who get along with everyone.

They are often trained to become excellent service dogs and search and rescue dogs.

They rarely show hostility or aggression toward other dogs or people. They are reliable, trustworthy, active, energetic and always eager to please.

4. Is This the Right Dog for You?

Exercise Needs

HIGH: Golden Retrievers can be prone to obesity, so yours will need rigorous daily exercise.

The dogs are active and energetic, and they need this regular physical activity to stay healthy. A lack of exercise can also lead to chewing or behavioral difficulties.

Grooming Needs

MEDIUM: The Golden Retriever’s water-repellant double coat sheds seasonally, so you’ll need to brush yours regularly.

Experts recommend brushing these dogs at least twice a week, or more often as needed in the warmer months.

Golden Retrievers’ long fur shows dirt pretty easily, so bathe yours as needed. Check and clean the ears weekly and trim the nails, too.

Health Problems

HIGH: Golden Retrievers are prone to experiencing a long list of health problems, but there’s no guarantee your dog will suffer any of these conditions.

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While the most common problems are obesity, hip dysplasia and cataracts, these other conditions have been noted for the breed:

• Elbow dysplasia
• Patella (kneecap) problems
• Eye abnormalities
• Heart disease
• Bleeding disorder
• Cancer
• Epilepsy
• Kidney (renal) failure
• Hypothyroidism
• Allergies
• Hernias
• Muscular dystrophy

More Stats About Golden Retrievers

Learn more about Golden Retrievers in this this video:

5. How to Adopt a Golden Retriever

If you consider getting a Golden Retriever for your next pet, please check adoption resources — even purebred animals end up in shelters.

Try Petful’s pet adoption page. You can filter your search results by breed and ZIP code.

If you decide to look into breeders, make sure they’re responsible and do not exhibit any puppy mill red flags. Ask if health clearances were performed — clearances are tests that look for issues in the parents to determine if any conditions will be passed down to their puppies.

References