Should you get a Golden Retriever? Key factors to consider

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK, known for their friendly faces and gentle nature. While they make wonderful family dogs, they’re not the right fit for everyone. Understanding their needs, personality and lifestyle requirements can help you decide if a Golden Retriever is the right match for you.

What is a Golden Retriever really like?

Golden Retrievers are known for being affectionate, loyal and incredibly people-oriented. They thrive on human company and love being involved in everyday family life. This makes them brilliant companions, but it also means they don’t do well when left alone for long periods.

They’re also highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, that intelligence comes with energy and enthusiasm that needs to be channelled in the right way.

Exercise and activity needs

Golden Retrievers are an active breed. While they’re calm and gentle indoors once their needs are met, they require plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, a bored Golden Retriever can become restless, destructive or overly excitable. If you enjoy an active lifestyle and love spending time outdoors, a Golden could be a great dog for you. If not, their energy levels may feel overwhelming.

Grooming and shedding

Golden Retrievers have a thick, water-repellent double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding during spring and autumn. Regular brushing is essential to keep their coat healthy and reduce loose hair around your home.

Expect to:

• Brush several times a week (daily during shedding seasons)
• Deal with dog hair on clothes, furniture and floors
• Schedule occasional professional grooming if needed

If you welcome a Golden Retriever into your home, be prepared to invest time and money into caring for their beautiful but high-maintenance coat!

Training and socialisation

Because they’re so people-focused and intelligent, Golden Retrievers respond well to positive reinforcement training. Early training and socialisation are key to raising a well-mannered adult dog.

They generally get along well with children, other dogs and other pets. That said, their friendly nature means they’re not great guard dogs. They’re far more likely to greet strangers with a wagging tail than a warning bark.

Health considerations

Like all breeds, Golden Retrievers are prone to certain health conditions. These can include hip and elbow dysplasia, skin sensitivities and unfortunately, a higher risk of certain cancers later in life.

Choosing a responsible breeder, keeping up with regular Vet check-ups and providing a high-quality diet can make a big difference to their long-term health and wellbeing.

Time, commitment and lifestyle

Golden Retrievers thrive in homes where they’re treated as part of the family. They need time, attention and consistency.

A Golden Retriever is the perfect fit for you if:

• You have time for daily exercise and training
• You enjoy grooming and don’t mind shedding
• You want a sociable, affectionate dog
• Someone is home for most of the day or you can arrange dog care

If you’re often out, have limited time for walks or prefer a more independent dog, this breed may ask you more than you can handle!