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

Libby
Baby
Libby
M

Labrador Retriever / Golden Retriever

Fur-Ever Paws Dog Rescue · Newark, DE
Benny
Baby
Benny
M

Labrador Retriever / Golden Retriever

Fur-Ever Paws Dog Rescue · Newark, DE
Maise
Young
Maise
M

Golden Retriever

City of Tulsa Animal Welfare · Tulsa, OK
Buddy
Adult 5
Buddy
M

Poodle / Golden Retriever

Humane Society Of Broward County · Fort Lauderdale, FL
Slider
Baby
Slider
S

Golden Retriever / Mixed

Wish Bone Canine Rescue · Normal, IL
Buddy
Adult
Buddy
M

Saint Bernard / Golden Retriever

Grateful Paws Dog & Cat Rescue · Eustis, FL
Lokum
Young 1
Lokum
L

Golden Retriever / Mixed

Loved At Last Dog Rescue · Langley, CA
Sunny
Adult
Sunny
M

Golden Retriever / Labrador Retriever

Southern Ocean County Animal Facility · Manahawkin, NJ

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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 57 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.