Golden Retriever
dog Breed Profile
Golden retriever males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh about 65 to 75 pounds (29 to 32 kilograms). Females are about 21 to 22 inches tall and weigh about 55 to 65 pounds (25 to 29 kilograms).
In this article
Floppy ears (naturally)
Size
Weight
65-75 lbs.
55-65 lbs.
Height
22 in.
(at withers)
24 in.
Coat
Length
Medium
Color
Golden of various shades
Care
Exercise
>40 minutes/day
Energy level
Average
Longevity
10-13 yrs.
Needs
High
Traits
Moderate
Low
Drooling
Low
Digging
Low
Grooming Needs
Moderate
Social Needs
High
Club recognition
AKC Class.
Sporting
UKC Class.
Gun Dog
Prevalence
Common
Golden retrievers are very versatile. They’re known as bird dogs, family pets, service dogs for the disabled, and search and rescue dogs.
Golden retriever males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh about 65 to 75 pounds (29 to 32 kilograms). Females are about 21 to 22 inches tall and weigh about 55 to 65 pounds (25 to 29 kilograms).
- FORM -
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 guardian'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.
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.
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.
Other breeds you might be interested in
-
Adoption Choices: Herding Dog Breeds
Discover why herding dogs are great choices for active pet parents and families, especially those who have plenty of time & energy for their new friend.
-
All About Brachycephalic Dogs
What are brachycephalic dogs? Learn all about these short-nosed dog breeds and why they're so beloved, but also some of the health issues they face.
-
How Many Dog Breeds Are There?
Learn all about the extensive amount of dog breeds, the classifications that they fall into, and the process for getting a new breed officially recognized.
-
How to Determine Your Dog's Breed
Discover how to determine your dog's breed by identifying visual or behavioral traits that are common in their purebred cousins.
-
Medium Sized Dogs: The Goldilocks of Dog Sizes
Discover the endearing qualities of medium-sized dogs, including size benefits and how to choose which breed is best for your family & living situation.
-
The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Cold Weather
Some dogs are more comfortable in cold winter temperatures than others. Learn some of the best breeds for cold weather & they thrive when it's chilly.
