Golden Retriever Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever

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Friendly Reliable Trustworthy Kind

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever was developed in the Scottish Highlands by Lord Tweedmouth during the mid-19th century, who crossed a Yellow Retriever with the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel to create the ultimate waterfowl hunting companion. Standing 21.5–24 inches tall and weighing 55–75 pounds, these iconic dogs wear a lustrous, water-repellent double coat in shades ranging from light cream to deep gold. Their gentle expression, athletic build, and flowing feathered coat have made them one of the three most popular breeds in America for decades running.

Temperament & Personality

Golden Retrievers are the gold standard of family dogs — trustworthy, patient, and endlessly forgiving with children of all ages. They possess an innate desire to please that makes them exceptionally trainable and a joy to live with, whether as a first-time owner's companion or a seasoned handler's working partner. Their friendly, tolerant attitude extends to strangers, other dogs, and household pets — they seem to genuinely believe every person and animal they meet is a friend.

Pros

  • Universally gentle temperament — consistently ranked among the best breeds for families with children
  • Highly intelligent and eager to please — excel in obedience, therapy, service, and search and rescue
  • Patient and forgiving nature makes them ideal for first-time dog owners
  • Social and friendly with virtually everyone — dogs, cats, strangers, and guests alike

Cons

  • Cancer affects approximately 60% of Golden Retrievers — the highest rate of any breed
  • Heavy shedding year-round with seasonal coat blows that cover furniture and clothing
  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and eye conditions
  • Mouthy breed — will carry and chew objects constantly, especially during puppyhood

There's a reason Goldens are America's favorite — find Golden Retrievers looking for homes on Puplister.

Golden Retriever Quick Facts

Size
55–75 lbs, 21–24 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes

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Available Golden Retrievers

Honeysuckle
Young

Golden Retriever / Labrador Retriever

Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue · Robbinsdale, MN
Lucy
Adult
Lucy
M

Border Collie / Golden Retriever

Street Paws · Locust Grove, GA
Sweetie
Adult

Golden Retriever / Siberian Husky

Alaskan Animal Rescue Friends · Anchorage, AK
Dandelion
Young

Golden Retriever / Mixed

To Love A Canine Rescue · Kimberton, PA
Angelica
Baby

Golden Retriever

Harris County Pets · Houston, TX
Alex
Baby
Alex
S

Golden Retriever

Mountain Pet Rescue · Winter Park, CO
Colby
Baby
Colby
S

Golden Retriever

Mountain Pet Rescue · Winter Park, CO
Chloe
Baby
Chloe
S

Golden Retriever / German Shepherd Dog

Mountain Pet Rescue · Winter Park, CO
Evan
Baby
Evan
S

Golden Retriever

Mountain Pet Rescue · Winter Park, CO
Breezy
Baby
Breezy
S

Golden Retriever

Mountain Pet Rescue · Winter Park, CO
Eliza
Baby
Eliza
S

Golden Retriever

Harris County Pets · Houston, TX

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a Golden Retriever?
The Golden Retriever is known for being friendly, reliable, trustworthy and kind.
How many Golden Retrievers are available for adoption?
There are currently 23 Golden Retrievers available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a Golden Retriever from Puplister?
To adopt a Golden Retriever, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.