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

Chloe
Baby 1
Chloe
L

Golden Retriever

New Beginnings Shepherd Rescue · Holly Hill, SC
Jasmine
Young

Golden Retriever

City of Tulsa Animal Welfare · Tulsa, OK
Cleveland
Baby 2

Golden Retriever / Mixed

Mile High Labrador Retriever Mission · Broomfield, CO
Patience
Young

Poodle / Golden Retriever

One Dog At A Time · Lewistown, PA
Jack
Adult 2
Jack
XL

Golden Retriever / Great Pyrenees

Hella Dam Bitches N Queens Rescue · Pacifica, CA

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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.