Golden Retriever Dog Breed Guide
Discover everything you need to know about the Golden Retriever dog breed
Key Breed Facts: Male 29 - 32 kg and female 25 - 29 kg
Height at the withers: withers: Energy level: Medium
Lifespan: 10 - 13 years
Drooling tendency: Small
Snoring tendency: Slight
Barking tendency: Medium
Digging tendency Slight
Social needs High
Bred for Appearance
Colours: Various shades of golden
Health concerns: Generally healthy and sound breed, but at risk for hip and elbow problems, among others.
Golden Retrievers are versatile and immensely popular dogs, known for their gentle nature and trainability. They were originally bred as retrieving bird dogs, so they love to be occupied and work! Their intelligence, playful spirit, and affectionate personalities make them wonderful family pets, often getting along brilliantly with children and other animals.
Grooming a Golden Retriever
Their coat comes in various shades of golden, from almost white to dark gold. This long, water-repellent coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting. Goldens love water, so be prepared for occasional baths – it’s a good idea to keep some dog shampoo handy!dog shampoo ready in the home for when a bath is needed.
Nailcare
Regular nail care is essential! Clipping them about once a month is a good recommendation, though it's better to trim a little and often. Getting your dog used to nail clipping from a young age is key. Check out our nail clipping guide in the Lassie app for expert tips!
Lameness
As a larger breed, Golden Retrievers can be prone to lameness issues. Our general lameness guide in the Lassie app offers more information on different types of lameness and how to manage them.
Weight Management
Golden Retrievers are often enthusiastic eaters and rarely refuse a treat! This means responsible weight management is crucial. You can learn how to monitor your dog's weight and body condition effectively in our Weight Control course within the Lassie app.
Stomach Upset
Their love for food can sometimes lead Goldens to eat things they shouldn't, resulting in vomiting or diarrhoea. While these are common reasons for vet visits, often you can manage mild cases at home. Our app provides guidance on when you can treat your dog yourself and when to seek professional help.
Socialisation
Early socialisation is vital for Golden Retrievers. Introduce them to a variety of sights, sounds, and environments from a young age. Our app includes resources on socialisation and environmental training to help your dog grow into a well-adjusted adult.
