All breeds › Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever
A gentle, eager-to-please retriever developed in the Scottish Highlands for fetching waterfowl.
♥ Swipe on the Golden RetrieverQuick facts
- Origin
- Scotland
- Size
- Large
- Energy
- High
- Bred for
- Retrieving game
- Lifespan
- 10–12 years
- Temperament
- Gentle, devoted, patient
- Exercise
- 90 min/day
- Grooming
- Medium
- Shedding
- High
- Training
- Easy
- With children
- Great
- Apartment
- Maybe
Where the Golden Retriever comes from
Goldens were developed in Scotland in the 1800s to retrieve shot birds from land and water. The breed took its soft mouth and golden coat from careful crossing of retrievers and spaniels.
Personality and daily life
Gentle, patient and people-focused. Goldens stay playful well into adulthood and are rarely aggressive. They suffer if left alone for long stretches.
Goldens are affectionate, easy to train and great with children. Expect plenty of shedding and a daily need for exercise and company.
Exercise, grooming and health
Daily exercise of an hour or more keeps them settled. The feathered coat needs brushing a few times a week and sheds all year. Cancer, hip dysplasia and ear infections are common, so choose a breeder who health tests.
Is a Golden Retriever right for you?
Families with children, people who work from home, and first-time owners who like a trainable, affectionate dog.
- Great with children
- Easy to train, good for beginners
- Sheds a lot
Similar breeds
Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.