Overview
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Size: Medium-sized sporting dog
- Maintenance Level: Moderate to high
- Shed Level: High
- Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, affectionate
- Friendliness: Excellent with children and other pets
- Barking Tendency: Low
Best For
- Families, first-time pet owners, those looking for a friendly and trainable dog
Appearance
- Weight: 55–75 pounds
- Height: 21–24 inches
- Broad head, short ears, deep chest, muscular build
- Thick, water-repellent, lustrous golden coat, ranging from white to red
Temperament
- Known for intelligence and affection
- Good-natured and sociable
- Adaptable to various activities including therapy and guide work
Care Guide
- Grooming: Requires regular grooming to maintain coat health
- Training: Easy to train, responds well to positive reinforcement
- Diet & Nutrition: Balanced, age-appropriate diet
- Exercise: Moderate to high energy levels, enjoys activities like running, swimming, and retrieving
Health
- Hot Spots: Prone to skin infections due to thick coat and love for swimming
- Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy): Inflammatory skin condition
- Hypothyroidism: Endocrine disorder leading to weight gain, lethargy, skin issues
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Joint conditions causing pain and arthritis
- Eye Conditions: Susceptible to pigmentary uveitis, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Cancers: Increased risk of lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma
- Heart Problems: Subaortic valvular stenosis (SAS), a genetic heart condition
Additional Information
- Feeding Recommendations: Balanced diet, avoid overfeeding
- Training Challenges: Generally easy to train; requires early socialisation
- Grooming Needs: Regular brushing, professional grooming may be necessary
- Good Family Dog: Yes, especially good with children
- Intelligence: High; easy to train and quick learners
- Exercise Needs: Moderate to high; requires regular physical and mental stimulation
- Health Concerns: Prone to specific health issues; regular veterinary care advised
Grooming Guide
- Skin Care: Regular checks for hot spots or other skin issues
- Coat Care: Frequent brushing to prevent matting, especially behind ears and hind limbs
- Eye Care: Regular monitoring for discharge or signs of eye disease
- Ear Care: Clean as needed, particularly after swimming
Curious to know more? Check out our Golden Retriever guide!
