Golden Retriever Size & Weight Chart

The Golden Retriever breed is one of the most well-loved dog breeds in the world because of their loyal, loving and nurturing nature that we so often associate with them and other retriever breeds as well.

In this article, we will look at Golden Retriever growth and answer all your questions about the size of this lovely dog breed.

How Big Is a Golden Retriever Dog?

Golden Retrievers are medium to large breed dogs, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), although your local Golden Retriever Club may categorise the size of these dogs differently.

Height

Male dogs are larger than females and measure between 58 and 61 cm at the shoulder. Female Golden Retrievers measure between 54.6 and 57 cm at the shoulder.

Weight

Male Golden Retrievers can weigh anywhere from 29.5 to 34 kgs. Female dogs weigh slightly less at 24.9 to 29.5 kgs.
 

At What Age Does a Golden Retriever Reach Its Full Size?

Your Golden Retriever puppy will reach its full height between 9 and 12 months but will continue to pick up the weight until 18 months of age. Golden Retriever growth is influenced by genetics, gender, as well as when the pup was spayed or neutered.
 

What Is the Ideal Weight For a Golden Retriever?

You want to make sure that your Golden Retriever pup maintains a healthy weight, as these active dogs can suffer when overweight.
 

How to Make Sure a Golden Retriever Isn’t Overweight

Golden Retrievers love food. It is up to responsible pet owners to manage their food consumption and weight.

• Feed a balanced diet. This purebred dog breed requires a diet packed with nutrients, minerals, protein and omega fatty acids. You should always feed your dog high-quality food without fillers, artificial flavours, preservatives or a lot of carbohydrates.
• Feed smaller meals. Golden Retrievers will not do well with free-feeding as they will eat all food presented to them. Healthy dogs are dogs that eat smaller portions several times a day. This will prevent obesity and help with managing your dog’s weight.
• Provide healthy treats. If you are using treats for obedience training, make sure that these treats are healthy and natural. When feeding your dog, consider how many treats it has received during the day, and do not overfeed it.
• Regular Exercise. Golden Retrievers require plenty of regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Whether service dogs or dogs competing in dog sports – all Goldens require adequate exercise.

Your Golden Retriever should have at least one hour of exercise each day. This exercise can be going for a run, a hike, playing in the backyard, or playing with other dogs at the dog park.

Exercise will help your dog remain healthy and also keep it stimulated and relaxed.
 

Ensuring Your Golden Retriever Grows Properly

You have to monitor your pup’s growth to ensure it is healthy. Golden Retrievers grow most rapidly between the ages of 3 to 6 months, and you want to ensure your dog is growing safely to prevent harm to your puppy’s bones.

Female Golden tend to grow faster than males, but males catch up after the first few months.

The growth of your Golden depends on its genetics, gender when it was sterilised, and the dog’s nutrition.

Health Issues Influencing Your Dog’s Growth

Health issues when your dog is still young can influence the growth and size of an adult dog; for example, ringworm can stunt your dog’s growth.

Health problems can result in damage to bones, muscles, tendons, immunity and digestion.

Growing too fast or too slow

If your puppy is growing too fast or slow due to over-or under-feeding, it can cause bone diseases, arthritis, hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia.

Puppies that grow too fast or too slow are often at risk of developing illnesses and will have joint problems later in life.
 

FAQs

Is a Golden Retriever a large or medium dog?

In general, Golden Retrievers are considered medium dogs. However, individual dogs can be larger than others.

Which is bigger: a Labrador or a Golden Retriever?

Labradors and Golden Retrievers are very similar in size. However, Labradors are slightly taller and weigh slightly more. Both breeds are considered to be medium-to-large dogs.

What is the maximum weight of a Golden Retriever?

The maximum weight of a male Golden is 36.3 kg, and males weigh more than females.
 

Final Thoughts on Golden Retriever Size & Weight

Golden Retrievers are loyal and loving and make great companions. This is a medium-sized dog breed, and these dogs will require plenty of outdoor space for exercise and help to maintain a healthy weight.