Dog Breed Diaries

Your Diary of Dog Breeds, Traits, and Tales.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever

Friendly, reliable, trustworthy

Friendly and sociable, Golden Retrievers are known for their patience and make excellent family pets.

Know your Golden Retriever

Breed Group: Sporting

Size: Large

Height: 21-24 inches

Weight: 55-75 pounds

Coat Type: Double coat, water-resistant

Coat Colors: Golden

Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and devoted. Golden Retrievers are gentle and affectionate, making them ideal for families, especially those with children. They thrive on companionship and are eager to please, which makes them excellent therapy dogs as well.

Energy Level: High. Golden Retrievers are active and playful, requiring daily exercise to stay healthy and mentally stimulated. They enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, fetch, and long walks.

Good with Children: Yes

Good with Other Pets: Yes

Trainability: Highly trainable. Golden Retrievers are smart, obedient, and quick learners. Their eagerness to please makes them ideal for first-time dog owners and advanced obedience or service dog training.

Barking Tendency: Moderate. While generally quiet and well-mannered, they may bark to alert or express excitement.

Lifespan: 10-12 years

Health Issues: Golden Retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia and certain types of cancer, including lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma. Regular veterinary checkups and a healthy lifestyle are essential for prevention and early detection.

Exercise Requirements: High. They require at least an hour of daily physical activity. Interactive games, walks, and swimming help meet their needs and prevent boredom-related behaviors.

Hypoallergenic: No

History: The Golden Retriever was developed in Scotland in the 19th century as a hunting companion. Bred for retrieving game from both land and water, they quickly became popular for their gentle disposition and trainable nature.