Sporting Group
Golden Retriever
Champion Pedigree
Friendly
Devoted
Retriever
Bred in 19th-century Scotland to retrieve waterfowl over both land and water, the Golden Retriever combines a lustrous golden coat with one of the most reliably friendly temperaments of any breed. Patient, biddable, and eager to please, it remains a favorite family and service breed worldwide.
Lifespan
10–12 years.
Did You Know?
The breed traces to a single foundational line developed by Lord Tweedmouth in Scotland, carefully documented in his own breeding records from the 1860s onward.
Breed Traits
Size
Males 23–24 in. tall, 65–75 lbs; females 21.5–22.5 in. tall, 55–65 lbs.
Energy Level
High — needs substantial daily exercise, especially in its first few years.
Coat & Grooming
Dense, water-resistant double coat; heavy shedder, regular brushing needed.
Good With Families
Exceptionally friendly and patient with children; a favorite first family dog.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Golden
Origin
Scotland, developed in the 1860s.
Typical Litter Size
6 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Friendly, eager to please, and gentle; rarely aggressive, making it one of the most popular breeds for families and service work alike.
Coat Colors
Any shade of gold, from pale cream to deep gold.
Working Roles
Waterfowl retrieving, guide and service dog work, therapy work, and search and rescue.
Health & Wellness
Prone to certain cancers and hip/elbow dysplasia — significant considerations worth discussing with a vet and breeder.
Notable Golden Retrievers
Guide & Service Dogs
One of the most common breeds trained as guide and service dogs worldwide.
Registry Champions
Consistently one of the most registered breeds in national kennel clubs.
Therapy Dog Favorites
Widely used in therapy and hospital visitation programs for its gentle temperament.
Golden Retriever Gifts
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