A Golden Retriever looking upward in a wooded area.

A Golden Retriever looking upward in a wooded area.

Dietmar Rabich, Dülmen, Hausdülmen, Golden Retriever -- 2022 -- 5530.jpg, Wikimedia Commons. CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:D%C3%BClmen,_Hausd%C3%BClmen,_Golden_Retriever_--_2022_--_5530.jpg. Licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0. No source-file edits; display resizing/cropping only.

Dietmar Rabich · CC BY-SA 4.0

Image source

Breed or variety record

Golden Retriever

dog breed

Part of Dog

Explore the Golden Retriever in The Ark Is Earth's educational archive.

Summary

The Golden Retriever was developed in Scotland as a gundog that could retrieve game on land and from water. Its soft mouth, keen scent, and willingness to work suit it to hunting, field trials, assistance, and search-and-rescue. Goldens are usually friendly, dependable, and eager to please, and they need regular exercise and company. A dense, water-resistant coat helps protect the dog during outdoor work.

Quick facts

  • Size: Males are typically 23–24 inches tall and 65–75 pounds; females are 21.5–22.5 inches and 55–65 pounds.
  • Coat: The dense coat can be any shade of gold or cream and has feathering on the legs and tail.
  • Lifespan: The AKC lists a typical life expectancy of 10–12 years.
  • Working style: Biddable and energetic, Golden Retrievers enjoy carrying, retrieving, swimming, and learning with people.

Sources

Species context

Dog (Canis lupus familiaris)