Golden Retriever
Golden retriever males are 58 to 61 cm tall and weigh about 30 to 34 kg. Females are about 53 to 56 cm tall and weigh about 25 to 30 kg.
Weight
Male - 30-34 kg
Female - 25-30 kg
Height (at withers)
Male - 61 cm
Female - 56 cm
Length
Medium
Texture
Straight Colours
Exercise
>40 minutes/day
Energy Level
Average
Longevity
10-13 years
Needs
High
Bred For
AKC Class.
Sporting
UKC Class.
Gun Dog
Prevalence
Common
Barking
Snoring
Drooling
Grooming
Social Needs
Digging
Golden retrievers are very versatile. They’re known as bird dogs, family pets, service dogs for the disabled, and search and rescue dogs.
About
Golden retriever males are 58 to 61 cm tall and weigh about 30 to 34 kg. Females are about 53 to 56 cm tall and weigh about 25 to 30 kg.
Personality
The golden retriever is even-tempered, intelligent and affectionate. Golden retrievers are playful, yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers.
These dogs are eager to please, which probably explains why they respond so well to obedience training and are such popular service dogs. They also like to work, whether it involves hunting birds or fetching their owner's slippers.
Golden retrievers are not often barkers, and they lack guard instincts, so do not count on them to make good watchdogs. However, some golden retrievers will let you know when strangers are approaching.
What to Expect
This breed likes to be active. Remember, golden retrievers are bird dogs at heart, so they love a good game of fetch or a swim. If exercise is provided daily, golden retrievers can adapt to any type of home, even if it is a city apartment.
Golden retrievers are considered average shedders. Brushing about once weekly will keep the coat looking nice.
Diet Suggestions:
Puppy: Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Adult: Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Mature: Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Senior Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food
History
In 1999, the golden retriever was the second most popular AKC breed. This ranking is no surprise, because the dog has many qualities that make for a perfect family pet. The golden retriever's roots are in the fields and waterways of Great Britain, however.
The golden retriever was bred to be a bird dog, particularly for hunting water fowl, and the breed resulted from crossing a number of other breeds thought to include spaniels, setters, and the Newfoundland (but not the Newfoundland we know today), and perhaps even a bloodhound. The combination created a hardy, strong swimming dog that could withstand cold water, track wounded game and deal with crippled birds.
Today, golden retrievers are not only good bird dogs and family pets; they also are popular as service dogs for the blind and disabled, and as search and rescue dogs and contraband detection dogs. Few dogs can claim this breed's versatility.
Related articles
What Can I Give My Dog for Pain?
Not sure which pain medicine you can give your dog? Learn which painkillers, such as aspirin or name brand pain meds, are safe for your dog.
When Should a Dog Be Spayed?
Learn the proper age to spay your puppy, as well as whether adult dogs can be spayed, and possible complications to keep an eye out for following surgery.
My Dog is Acting Lethargic: Causes & How to Help
Discover reasons why your dog might be acting lethargic or not enjoying play & exercise like he used to, as well as when you should consult his vet.
How to Properly Care for Your Dog's Teeth
Are you paying enough attention to dog oral care? Learn some great ways to keep your dog's teeth & gums healthy, including a guide for brushing his teeth.
Find the right food for your pet
Hill’s Science Diet provides science-led nutrition to support pets’ ever-changing needs. Our portfolio also includes specialized nutrition for pets’ weight, skin, stomach and more.