Golden Retriever Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Golden Retriever?

Golden Retrievers are instantly recognisable thanks to their beautiful long golden coat and a tail that never stops wagging! Golden Retrievers were originally bred as hunting dogs, specifically for hunting waterfowl.

The Golden Retriever breeding came from crossing various other breeds, possibly including Setters, the Tweed Water Spaniel, which is now extinct, and Bloodhounds. This breed combination resulted in a strong, hardy swimming dog that could cope with cold water and track wounded game.

These days, Golden Retrievers are not only great companions, but they're also the most popular breed to be used as service dogs for disabled and blind people. Additionally, they're also often used as drug detection dogs and search and rescue dogs. Not many breeds can boast this level of versatility!

Who are Golden Retriever dogs best for?

Because of their loveable, playful nature, Golden Retrievers make great pets for just about anyone. Not only do they love humans, but they also get on well with other pets too. Many dog breeds don't play nicely with other animals, whether that's a cat, rabbit, or other dogs.

But as long as your Golden Retriever has been properly socialised, they will happily share their home and family with other pets. Having a dog who is this trustworthy will give you peace of mind and a calm household!

How much grooming does a Golden Retriever need?

Would-be Golden Retriever owners need to know that their furry friend will shed a lot! Goldens will heavily shed their dense, water-repellant coats around twice a year, as well as moderate shedding regularly, so don't be surprised if you have dog hair everywhere!

But, as long as you give your Golden a regular groom, you should be able to remove lots of the dead hair before it has a chance to stick to your furniture! During the heavy shedding periods, you'll probably find you need to brush your Golden every day.

Do Golden Retriever bark much?

Goldens are one of the most peaceful and friendly dog breeds, and although they will inevitably bark occasionally, they won't bark as much as other dogs, especially small breeds.

Golden Retrievers are not big barkers, and they don't possess a very strong guard instinct. This means they don't make the best watchdogs, but they may still alert you if strangers are approaching your home.

Do Golden Retriever bite?

Although the Golden Retriever is known for being exceptionally well-natured, they are still dogs. Like other dogs, Goldens do have the ability to bite and nip, especially when they're puppies. A puppy nipping at your hand may be cute, but encouraging this behaviour at an early age can lead to aggression in later life.

For this reason, your Golden Retriever puppy should be taught not to bite as early as possible. This is especially important if you have young children. Kids should be taught and educated on how to handle and treat the puppy.

What is the temperament & personality of a Golden Retriever?

Goldens were originally bred to work alongside people, and so they're incredibly eager to please. They love having a job to do, whether that's retrieving the daily newspaper or acting as your alarm clock!

Their happy temperament often attracts attention from people when you're out and about, and Goldens will happily play with other people and dogs.

What is the weight & size of a Golden Retriever?

Goldens are medium-sized, sturdy, and muscular dogs. They have strong heads and small ears that sit high up. The chest is typically deep with a well-balanced body.

Male Golden Retrievers typically reach heights of 23 to 24 inches and weigh between 65 and 75 pounds. Females are smaller and tend to weigh 55 to 65 pounds, and are 21 to 22 inches tall.

How much training does a Golden Retriever need?

Puppy training classes and obedience training are essential with Golden Retrievers. In addition, your puppy should be well socialised and exposed to lots of different places, people, and scenarios, so they are well-adjusted.

Of course, training your pup doesn't have to be boring; having a good supply of dog treats will help to keep his attention! Goldens are typically a very easy dog breed to train as they're always eager to please.

Fun fact: it was a Golden Retriever that was given the AKC Obedience Champion title at the 2021 American Kennel Club championship!

What are some of the most common health issues for a Golden Retriever?

Generally, Golden Retrievers are very healthy dogs, but unfortunately, they are at a slightly higher risk of hip dysplasia and cancer compared to other breeds. Other potential health conditions you should be aware of include:

• Elbow dysplasia

• Cataracts

• Hypothyroidism

• Bloating

• Allergies

What is the lifespan of a Golden Retriever?

Most Golden Retrievers can live up to 13 years old, so you can expect to have many happy years with your furry friend. Regular vet visits will ensure your dog is in good health.

They should also have their ears and teeth cleaned often, so they're in optimum health. Another way to make sure your dog lives a happy life for longer is by buying from a responsible breeder. You'll probably have to pay more, but a well-bred puppy is worth it.

Be sure to research each breeder you look at and ask about the parent's temperaments, health histories, and bloodlines.

How much should you feed a Golden Retriever?

When it comes to feeding, you'll need to help your Golden manage his food intake as they have a strong tendency to put on too much weight. Meals should be weighed out and given twice per day rather than leaving a constant supply of food out all day.

To avoid unnecessary weight gain, keep treats to a minimum. If you're not sure if your dog is overweight, do an eye and hands-on test. If you feel along his sides, you should be able to feel his ribs with a fairly light touch, but you shouldn't be able to see them.

If you can't feel them at all, it's probably a case of more exercise, and less food, is needed. If you're worried about your dog's weight, discuss the best plan of action with your vet.

What is the price of a Golden Retriever in Australia?

Most would-be puppy parents want to know how much a Golden Retriever will cost, as it's a very big commitment. You can expect to pay between $1500 and $3500 for a high-quality puppy. It may be tempting to go for a cheap puppy, but this is not a good idea.

Puppies priced cheaply are usually more likely to have behavioural or health problems since they typically come from "puppy mills". Avoid these at all costs, as puppies are bred in high volumes, without having all the necessary health checks, and they're typically kept in cruel conditions.