A retriever with Scottish gundog roots. Plan shared activities, handling, transport and grooming around the individual dog and your household.
Illustration
Weight
25–34 kg
Lifespan
10–12 years
Weight and lifespan are reference ranges from the breed guide. They vary by sex, lineage and individual dog and do not predict your dog’s ideal weight or lifespan. Read the care descriptions alongside the individual dog’s history.
Background and characteristics
The Golden Retriever has a history of retrieving game. The AKC profile also describes work alongside people in guiding and search roles. Breed history is useful context, but it cannot establish an individual dog’s temperament or suitability for a job.
Exercise and play
Ask the current carer about familiar walks, preferred activities and how the dog settles afterwards. Make a realistic plan for who handles walks and play. Exercise should fit age, health and fitness; a fixed daily duration is not a prescription for every Golden.
Barking or chewing does not identify a single cause.
Home environment and care planning
Check doorways, lift access, vehicle space and equipment against the dog’s actual size. Budget using the food and services you would buy, and agree a backup care plan. Ask for the current grooming routine and any handling difficulties.
Do not insert tools into the ears or improvise ear treatment from this guide. Take health records and questions to the treating veterinarian.
