🦮 Dog breed

Golden Retriever: breed facts, care and health

One of the world's most loved family dogs: calm, gentle and people-focused. High energy, and the coat needs regular care.

✍️ CanlıDostum Editorial Team📅 October 22, 2026⏱️ 3 min read

⚡ At a glance

  • Adult weight: Male 29–34 kg (65–75 lb) · Female 25–29 kg (55–65 lb)
  • Life expectancy: 10–12 years
  • Activity: High · 1–2 hours a day
  • Best suited to: Families, homes with children, active owners

Key facts

OriginScotland
HeightMale 58–61 cm (23–24 in) · Female 55–57 cm (21.5–22.5 in)
Adult weightMale 29–34 kg (65–75 lb) · Female 25–29 kg (55–65 lb)
Life expectancy10–12 years
Activity needsHigh · 1–2 hours a day
CoatLong double coat; heavy shedding
Best suited toFamilies, homes with children, active owners

Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.

Temperament

Goldens are friendly, eager to learn and great with children. They dislike being left alone for long and may chew when bored. Because they train so well, they are often guide and therapy dogs.

Daily exercise

Plan 1–2 hours of walks, running and play a day. They love water; swimming burns energy without stressing joints. Avoid long runs and hard jumping while growing (until about 12–18 months).

🏃Log walks and play with the activity tracker and see weekly totals.
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Feeding

Goldens gain weight easily; weigh food and limit treats.

Example: a neutered adult Golden Retriever at an ideal weight of 29 kg (64 lb) needs roughly 1400 kcal a day (RER × 1.6). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.

Common health problems

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia: limping, trouble getting up
  • Cancer: haemangiosarcoma and lymphoma are common in the breed
  • Eye disease: cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy
  • Skin and ear infections
  • Hypothyroidism
🚨Not every Golden Retriever will have these problems; the list shows conditions seen more often in the breed. If you notice symptoms, or are getting a puppy or kitten, ask about the parents' health screening and plan regular check-ups with your vet.

Care tips

  • Brush 2–3 times a week, daily when shedding
  • Dry ears after swimming and baths
  • Check nails monthly
  • Brush teeth several times a week
🪪Microchip your pet and keep your contact details up to date — in many countries it is required by law.

Frequently asked questions

Can a Golden Retriever live in an apartment?

Yes, if it gets 1–2 hours of outdoor activity every day. Without it, a Golden becomes restless.

How long do Golden Retrievers live?

On average 10–12 years. Regular vet check-ups and ideal weight help.

Do Golden Retrievers shed a lot?

Yes, all year and especially in spring and autumn. Regular brushing helps.

⚠️This page is for general information and is based on FCI and AKC breed standards and general veterinary sources such as WSAVA, the AVMA and the Merck Veterinary Manual. It does not replace an examination or advice from a veterinarian.

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