How big do Golden Retrievers get?

Most weigh 55–75 pounds and stand 21–24 inches tall.

How long do Golden Retrievers live?

The average lifespan is typically 10–12 years.

How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need?

Most benefit from 60–90 minutes of daily physical and mental activity.

Are Golden Retrievers easy to train?

They are generally considered very highly trainable and cooperative.

Do Golden Retrievers bark a lot?

They are typically low to moderate barkers.

Are Golden Retrievers good for first-time owners?

They are often suitable for first-time owners prepared for shedding, grooming, and daily engagement.

Golden Retriever Guide: Temperament, Care, Pros & Cons

Stats at a Glance

Size

Large

Energy Level

Moderate to High

Shedding

Very High

Trainability

Very High

Apartment Friendly

Depends

Good with Kids

Yes

Good with Dogs

Often

Grooming

High

Barking

Low to Moderate

Daily Exercise

60–90 min

Golden Retrievers are affectionate, emotionally attuned companion dogs known for their gentle expression and cooperative temperament. Originally developed in Scotland as retrieving dogs, they combine athletic ability with a soft, people-oriented personality that many families find appealing.

Unlike more independent working breeds, Golden Retrievers are often highly socially adaptable. However, they are not low-maintenance dogs. Heavy shedding, regular grooming, and consistent daily engagement are part of life with this breed.

This guide is informational and not veterinary advice. Consult a licensed veterinarian for medical concerns.

Size & lifespan

Most Golden Retrievers stand 21–24 inches tall at the shoulder and typically weigh 55–75 pounds, depending on sex and lineage.

The average lifespan ranges from 10–12 years, though genetics, diet, and preventive veterinary care can influence longevity.

Lifestyle Fit

Dogs for apartments: Possible with structured exercise
First-Time Owners: Often suitable
Best family dogs: Excellent match
Active Households: Strong fit
Low-Energy Homes: Not ideal

Quick take: Is a Golden Retriever right for you?

Best for

Families seeking a patient, people-oriented dog
Owners who enjoy daily outdoor activity
Households wanting a highly trainable companion
First-time owners prepared for grooming and shedding

Not ideal for

Owners wanting minimal coat maintenance
Very sedentary households
People frequently away from home
Homes unprepared for heavy year-round shedding

Temperament & personality

Golden Retrievers are widely recognized for their emotional sensitivity and cooperative nature.

Gentle and socially adaptable

Many Goldens are naturally friendly toward guests and other pets. Compared to more protective breeds like the German Shepherd, Golden Retrievers are typically more socially open.

Emotionally responsive

Golden Retrievers are often described as intuitive or emotionally perceptive. They may respond strongly to tone and environment, making calm, consistent training especially effective.

Playful yet balanced

While they enjoy activity, they are usually less intense than high-drive breeds like the Border Collie. This balance often makes them easier to integrate into family life.

Exercise needs: How much activity does a Golden Retriever need?

Most adult Golden Retrievers benefit from 60–90 minutes of daily activity, combining physical exercise and structured engagement.

A balanced routine may include:

One longer walk or moderate jog
Structured retrieving games
Short obedience sessions
Light enrichment activities

Balanced activity vs. high-drive intensity

Golden Retrievers usually enjoy consistent exercise but often do not require extreme intensity. Routine matters more than athletic difficulty.

Signs of insufficient activity

Restlessness indoors
Attention-seeking behaviors
Chewing or mild destructiveness

For other active breeds, see: High-Energy Dog Breeds

Shedding & grooming

Golden Retrievers are heavy shedders and require regular coat maintenance.

Do Golden Retrievers shed a lot?

Yes. They shed throughout the year, with increased shedding during seasonal coat transitions.

Grooming routine

Brushing several times per week
Daily brushing during heavy shedding periods
Regular ear cleaning
Nail trimming
Occasional bathing

Because of their feathered double coat, grooming time commitment is significantly higher than short-coated breeds like the Labrador Retriever.

Golden Retrievers are not considered hypoallergenic.

Training & behavior

Golden Retrievers are generally eager to cooperate and respond well to structured guidance.

Training difficulty

Often considered very highly trainable due to their cooperative disposition.

Common behavior challenges

Jumping during greetings
Food motivation leading to overeating
Mild separation-related behaviors
Leash pulling during adolescence

Practical training tips

Reinforce calm greetings early.
Use structured feeding routines.
Incorporate short, consistent training sessions.
Reward relaxed indoor behavior.

Their temperament frequently makes them well-suited for therapy, assistance, and service roles.

Are Golden Retrievers good family dogs?

Golden Retrievers are widely considered one of the strongest family companion breeds due to their affectionate and tolerant nature.

They often:

Bond closely with children
Adapt well to structured family routines
Show patience during supervised interaction

Consistent training and supervision remain important, especially with young children.

For more family-oriented breeds, see: Best Dogs for Families

Are Golden Retrievers good for apartments?

Apartment living may work if exercise needs are consistently met.

They are generally more adaptable than some high-drive working breeds, but still require daily structured activity. Access to outdoor space and routine walks is important.

Without consistent engagement, confined environments may increase restlessness.

For apartment-suited breeds, see: Best Dogs for Apartments

Health considerations (high-level)

Golden Retrievers may be associated with certain hereditary concerns, including:

Hip and elbow dysplasia
Certain cancers (higher incidence compared to some breeds)
Heart conditions in some lines

Maintaining a healthy weight, providing structured exercise, and scheduling regular veterinary checkups are important considerations.

Consult a veterinarian for medical advice.

Cost to own a Golden Retriever

Typical cost categories include:

Food (larger portions due to size)
Veterinary care
Grooming supplies
Training classes
Preventative medications

Because of heavy shedding and coat maintenance, grooming-related expenses may be higher than short-coated breeds.

For budgeting guidance, see: How Much Does a Dog Cost Per Month?

Similar breeds to compare

If you’re considering a Golden Retriever, you may also compare:

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Golden Retrievers get?: Most weigh 55–75 pounds and stand 21–24 inches tall.
How long do Golden Retrievers live?: The average lifespan is typically 10–12 years.
Do Golden Retrievers shed a lot?: Yes. They shed heavily year-round with increased seasonal shedding.
Are Golden Retrievers good family dogs?: They are widely regarded as affectionate, patient, and adaptable companions in structured family environments.
How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need?: Most benefit from 60–90 minutes of daily physical and mental activity.
Are Golden Retrievers easy to train?: They are generally considered very highly trainable and cooperative.
Are Golden Retrievers good for apartments?: They may adapt if daily exercise is consistent, though homes with more space are often better suited.
Do Golden Retrievers bark a lot?: They are typically low to moderate barkers.
Are Golden Retrievers good for first-time owners?: They are often suitable for first-time owners prepared for shedding, grooming, and daily engagement.