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Golden Retriever
A gentle, sunny family favourite — clever, patient and happiest with a job to do for you.
How to spot it
A large, sturdy dog 51–61 cm tall and 25–34 kg, with a friendly expression and a flat or wavy golden coat — from pale cream to rich gold — feathered on the legs, chest and tail.
Temperament
Affectionate, trusting and famously good-natured — patient with children, friendly with strangers and other dogs. That soft temperament makes it a poor guard but a superb companion and therapy dog.
Exercise & training
Bred to retrieve all day, it is energetic and needs an hour or more of exercise plus mental work. Eager and quick to learn, it is one of the easiest breeds to train.
Grooming & care
The long double coat sheds heavily and needs brushing several times a week to prevent mats, with more grooming during the moult. The coat holds heat, so avoid the midday sun in warm climates.
Health & lifespan
Usually 10–12 years. The breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and, sadly, to certain cancers; buy from breeders who screen, and keep the dog lean and fit.
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