Golden Retriever
Friendly and affectionate, the gentle Golden Retriever is one of the worlds most popular family dogs.
About the Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers make fantastic family pets, but they’re also versatile sporting and working dogs.
In sports they excel in disciplines as varied as obedience and agility; they also serve as search-and-rescue and guide dogs; not to mention their outstanding ability as trackers and retrievers on the hunt. Golden Retrievers have a host of qualities to justify their worldwide popularity.
Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
Breed specifics
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Group
- FCI Group 8, AKC Sporting Group
- Size category
- Large
- Avg life expectancy
- 10–13 years
Intelligent / Even-tempered / Lively / Loving / Friendly / Confident / Loyal
Key facts
Origins of the breed
The origins of the breed go all the way back to a yellow retriever by the name of Nous, bought by Lord Tweedmouth in 1865. The breed was then crossed a number of times, notably with a now defunct breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel, and later with the Bloodhound and the Irish Setter.
Eventually, the breed was recognised by The Kennel Club as a “yellow” or “golden” Retriever in 1913. When the Golden Retriever Club was established in 1920, the official breed name was changed to the Golden Retriever.
Tailored nutrition for your Golden Retriever
A healthy start to life
Puppyhood is a time of massive physical and behavioural change, and a steep learning curve for new owners. Find out how you can provide your puppy with the best start to life so they develop into strong, healthy dogs.
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Lifetime of health
Get advice and information on how to provide the best care for your dog at every stage of life.
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Preparing for your new Golden Retriever puppy
Getting a new puppy soon? Golden Retriever puppies are affectionate and gentle nature well suited for families. Learn how to care for your new Golden Retriever with our puppy guide. Make sure you have all the essentials before bringing it home. Give your puppy a healthy start to life.
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Discover our puppy range
Looking to buy premium food for your puppy? Royal Canin has developed a range of dog food formulas to support your puppy's growth and development. Learn more about our puppy range and our Golden Retriever puppy diet.View puppy range
