Golden Retriever – Facts, Price and Temperament Guide 2021

By Natasha | Last Updated: 19 June 2021

Talking about popular dogs in the United States without mentioning the Golden Retriever is useless. It is like trying to talk about beverages and soft drinks without mentioning Coke and Pepsi. The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States.

This breed of dog is known for its friendly disposition. Also, a tolerant attitude makes them truly one of the best choices for family pets. These are unique, intelligent, and very capable as hardworking dogs.

They are not Golden Retrievers for nothing. The name stuck to this species of dogs because they are renowned for excelling in games.

They involve retrieving stuff for hunters, tracking people, helping law enforcement agents by sniffing out contraband. Also, they are amazing therapy and service dogs.

Golden Retriever Puppies – Facts & Rescue

One of the many gifts the Golden Retriever possesses is the natural ability to do well in athletics. They are also good sports dogs such as agility and competitive obedience.

Training these dogs is fairly easy. They get along in just about any home or family. Your kids will love them as they are great pets for kids and very protective of their human friends.

If you are looking for a dog that is loyal, loving, and intelligent, Golden Retriever may a great choice. They are smart companions and, you should consider getting yourself a Golden Retriever pup into your pack.

The United States is home to many dog breeds and it is no surprise that the Golden Retriever is among the top 10 of the most popular dogs in the United States. Another highly desired dogs are Golden Dox.

Facts about the Golden Retriever Puppy

Some of the reasons why this dog breed is numbered among the ten most popular dogs in the US include:

Its high intelligence
Its ability to be sociable and interact with humans and other dogs
It is a beautiful dog. Your kids won’t be scared when you bring one home as they are very beautiful dogs.
Above all is its loyalty. Golden Retrievers are very loyal dogs.

The dog is lively and always energetic. If your choice of a dog is one that would stay silly and playful, then this Golden is a great option for you.

They are very slow to mature and they retain their silly and playful personality. This attitude remains from their puppyhood to three or four years of age.

I love the Golden Retrievers because of their silly, playful nature. Even though it is delightful, some people may find this attribute somewhat annoying.

A large number of them keep their puppyish traits until they get old. Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix is a bit different than others.

When they were first bred, they carried out the very demanding tasks of helping hunters retrieve ducks and other fowls. To keep them fit, your Golden Retriever will need to exercise every day.

Need for Exercise

Their daily exercise requirement can be summed up in a walk around the block or a jog. Sometimes, running around in the yard, an outing to the beach or lake where a game of fetching will amaze you both.

It is important to note that Goldens love water. When you own one, you would be doing it so much when you take it to the lake or beach or when you have a body of water in your yard.

Being one of the very intelligent dog breeds in the United States, the Golden was bred to work. Their job description is usually about retrieving paper and documents.

Additionally, they help the family members to wake up or competing in dog sports.

Another great feature that proves this dog breed is an intelligent one is that when a Golden is tired, it is often well-behaved.

It is important to exercise your Golden Retriever both physically and mentally. While you try to exercise your Golden also make sure you are prepared to include him in your family activities.

A perfect Family Dog

The Golden Retriever is what you would call a family dog. This attribute makes it as part of your family as every other member of your family. It likes to be together with its “pack” – the family.

And if you are not ready to include him in your house and have him partake in your daily family activities then there is no point in having one. If you are a fan of small dogs, you can try beautiful Mini Golden Retriever Puppies.

You must be wary of a potential drawback in this dog breed. This drawback is that the Golden Retriever is not a watchdog. You should not expect him to act as a watchdog or act as a security guard for your home.

The dog may bark when it sees strangers but then it is merely a doglike characteristic. The barking of this dog is not something to count on it. What you will readily see the dog do is to wag his tail and flash reveal its characteristic Golden smile.

Overall, what you have when you own a Golden is a pet and a companion and not a security aide.

History of Golden Retriever

The history of the Golden Retriever dog sets in the island country of Scotland while its origin can be traced to Russia.

For years, legend had it that this dog breed descended from Russian sheepdogs that were brought from a circus.

The breed was developed in Scotland at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks who later became known as Lord Tweedmouth.

Like every other gentry in his days, Lord Tweedmouth bred animals of all kinds, in a bid to find the perfect different breeds.

Early Days

For about 55 years, precisely from 1835 to 1890, Lord Tweedmouth’s breeding records showed that he was gunning for a talented retriever.

He was an ardent waterfowl hunter who had a superb nose, who would be more attentive to his human hunting companion than the setters and spaniels used at the time for retrieving.

He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. This was what he tried to achieve with the Golden Retriever.

The Tweed Water Spaniels dog species (now extinct) were known for being eager retrievers in the hunting field, and exceptionally calm and loyal in the home. These characteristics you will find in Golden Retrievers today.

In-depth Story

Nous and Belle’s descendants were bred with Wavy- and Flat-coated retrievers, another Tweed Water Spaniel, and a red setter.

Lord Tweedmouth continued his breeding escapade by keeping mostly the yellow puppies and gave the other puppies to friends and relatives.

True to expectations, Lord Tweedmouth’s breed first attracted attention for their skills when in the hunting field. One of the most well-known was Don of Gerwyn, a liver-coated descendent of one of Tweedmouth’s dogs, who won the International Gundog League trial in 1904.

In the year 1911, The Kennel Club in England recognized the Golden Retriever as a distinct breed during 1911 officially. As at the time, they were referred to as “Retriever—Yellow or Golden.” Nine years later, in 1920, the breed name was officially changed. Before purchasing, must check the Golden Retriever Cost.

It was in 1932 that The American Kennel Club gave some recognition to the breed. Today, the Golden Retriever has become the second most popular dog breed in the United States of America.

Golden Retriever Size

The size of a Golden Retriever is different for both males and females. The male Golden Retriever can grow up to 23 to 24 inches tall and weighs about 65 to 75 pounds.

The female Golden Retriever usually grows up to 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall and weighs between 55 to 65 pounds.

Typically, a Golden Retriever will get to its full height when it is one year of age and would reach its mature weight when it is two years of age.

If you can’t manage a big sized dog, you can get Golden Retriever Corgi Mix Puppies. They are just 10-18 inches tall.

Golden Retriever Health and Diseases

They are generally healthy, but like every other dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are prone to some health conditions. It is not every Golden that would be a victim of these diseases. If you plan on adopting one, you must bear in mind that they are susceptible to some of these diseases.

If you’re purchasing a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you get a good breeder who will show you health clearances for the parents of the puppy you want to buy.

Health clearances will show you if a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition.

For Goldens, you should expect to see health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). Especially, go for the following

Hip dysplasia (with a score of fair or better),
Elbow dysplasia
Hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease; from Auburn University for thrombopathia; and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) certifying that eyes are normal.

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) official website is the place to go if you want to confirm health clearances. Visit www.offa.org to verify clearances.

Let’s talk about Golden Retriever diseases that you should take note of.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition wherein the dog’s thighbone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. While some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both of their rear legs, others may not show any signs of discomfort when they are affected by hip dysplasia.

As a dog ages, it can develop arthritis. X-ray screening for hip dysplasia is done by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program.

Do not breed dogs with hip dysplasia. When buying a puppy, endeavor to ask the dog breeder for proof that the parents of the puppy do not have hip dysplasia and are free of problems.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is another heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. It is believed to be caused by different growth rates of the three bones that make up the dog’s elbow which causes joint laxity.

This health condition can lead to painful lameness. It is often recommended that a dog affected by elbow dysplasia undergoes surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain.

Cataracts

As humans’ best friend, dogs also suffer from canine cataracts that are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time.

This health condition can be developed at any age, and it does not always impair vision, although some cases of cataracts can cause severe loss of vision.

Breeding dogs should be examined by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist to be certified as free of hereditary eye disease before they’re bred.

Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. When a dog starts to suffer from PRA, it can become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their ability to see in the day too.

Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis

This is a heart problem that is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle (out-flow) and the aorta. It can make your dog faint and in the worst cases lead to death.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)

This is an orthopedic condition that is caused by the improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It often occurs in the elbows but certain cases have reported in the shoulders also.

The effect of this disease is a painful stiffening of the joint. The dog will experience difficulty in bending his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age.

One of the causes of this disease is overfeeding of “growth formula” puppy foods or high-protein foods

Common Allergies of Golden Retrievers

From food to pollen, Golden Retrievers are susceptible to allergies from a variety of substances. If your Golden begins to rub his face excessively or to lick his paws chances are that he is suffering an allergy. The healthiest dogs participate with their owners in the National Golden Retriever Day Celebrations.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood disorder that causes some difficulty in blood clotting.

One of the main signs that a dog is suffering from this disease is that it bleeds excessively after surgery or when it gets injured.

There is no cure for this disease. Other symptoms include gum bleeding, nosebleeds, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

The Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is sometimes called bloat and it is a condition that threatens the life of deep-chested dogs like the Golden Retriever.

A dog suffers from bloat when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog will not be able to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded.

This will make blood pressure drop and the dog goes into shock afterward. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die.

Bloat in a dog can be deciphered when the dog has a distended abdomen, when it is drooling excessively, and when he retches without throwing up.

Other signs include restlessness, depression, lethargy, and weakness with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, contact a vet immediately.

Epilepsy

Dogs also suffer from epilepsy. It is a brain disorder that causes the dog to suffer periodic seizures and convulsions.

When you contact a vet, they will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur before prescribing medication.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland and it is believed to cause conditions such as epilepsy, hair loss, obesity, lethargy, dark patches on the skin, and other skin conditions. You can treat Hypothyroidism by dieting and medication.

Hemangiosarcoma

Hemangiosarcoma is a dangerous cancer form that starts in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. Dogs in their middle-age and elderly dogs are prone to this cancer.

Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is another cancer in dogs that affects them. It is a malignant bone cancer that’s common in large and giant breeds.

Temperament

Golden Retriever temperament is a hallmark of this breed. On general breed standards, these are friendly, kind, and confident dogs. Being kind and patient with the children, they make great family pets.

We can rank them as “one-man dogs”. Generally, they are equally amiable with strangers as well as with familiar persons. Moreover, the golden retrievers are trusting, gentle dispositions but a poor guard dog.

Furthermore, unprovoked aggression in the show ring or community, a Golden Retriever may be timid or nervous.

They are best noted for their intelligence level. This particular dog breed ranked in fourth position following

The Border Collie
Poodle
German Shepherd

Golden Retriever Care

It is important to know how to care for your Golden Retriever seeing all of the diseases they are prone to.

They are built for action and love outdoor romps. Taking your Golden when you go hiking or jogging will make him happy. While playing catch with your friends, Golden Cocker Retriever will love to join in the fun.

It is typical for the Golden Retriever to enjoy being tired out after about 20 to 30 minutes of vigorous exercise twice a day.

Failing in this regard may lead to behavioral problems in your dog.

Like every other breed in the Retriever family, the Golden Retriever is always mouthy and loves to carry things in his mouth.

As a puppy, you would need to take special care of your Golden puppy. This is because they grow rapidly between 4 to 7 months and this growth can cause bone disorders.

Golden Retriever Feeding

The recommended feeding requirements for a Golden Retriever are between 2 to 3 cups of high-quality, dry food which is expected to be divided into two different meals.

You must be careful not to allow food to be lying around as overfeeding your Golden Retriever can make him overweight.

Golden Retriever FAQ

What is bad about golden retrievers?

Overall, the golden retrievers are great dogs. However, they are prone to different Health Problems. The Golden Retrievers can face the following health problems due to which they are considered somewhat bad including

Cancer
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
Cataracts
Epilepsy
Hypothyroidism
Heart Disease
Skin Allergies

How much do golden retrievers puppies cost?

On the average note, the purebred Golden Retrievers may cost from $500 to $3,000 by the breeders. On the other hand, adoption is a great option through a shelter home requiring a fee of around $50 to $300. The overall cost of a Golden Retriever may be from $14,470 and $15,780.

What are the disadvantages of owning a Golden Retriever?

Cons

Big and hungry.
Needs vigorous exercise daily of 40-60 minutes
Holy shed
Not great for being alone all day.
Can face numerous health problems.

Are Golden Retrievers good home alone?

Yes, Huskey Golden Retriever Mix can stay alone for 3 to 6 hours daily but don’t overdo this. On the other hand, golden retriever puppies under 18 months can be left alone for 2 hours only. When you keep them alone, must provide food, freshwater, and a bathroom.

Are Golden Retrievers aggressive?

Yes, the Golden Retrievers can be aggressive. Although, they are the gentlest breeds, however, they need the time of the owners. Neglect or abuse can make your dog aggressive. Socialization also helps to make them cool and avoid their aggression.

Final Words

The Golden Retriever dog breed is quite calm, highly intelligent, and biddable. They are eager to please. Like other purebred dogs, they can also face some problems but these are treatable.

They are medium-large, strongly built dogs with a dense, water-repellant wavy coat. Due to heavy shedding, they require regular grooming and an occasional bath.

Being large dog breeds, they need regular exercise for mental stimulation and physical fitness. If you can spare daily time with it then you should buy it otherwise find another dog for you.