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Golden Retriever: temperament, health and care
Golden Retriever: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium-large, about 25–34 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 10–12 years |
| Exercise | High: 1–2 hours a day |
| Grooming | Feathered double coat; brush several times a week; heavy shedding |
Temperament and who it suits
Friendly, gentle and patient. Generally excellent with children.
Often suits: active families wanting a sociable companion.
They are not guard dogs, and they need company and daily exercise.
Health problems to know about
- Cancers (including lymphoma and haemangiosarcoma)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Skin allergies
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Golden Retriever
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Golden Retriever live?
A Golden Retriever typically lives 10–12 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need?
High: 1–2 hours a day.
What health problems are common in a Golden Retriever?
Common concerns include cancers (including lymphoma and haemangiosarcoma), hip and elbow dysplasia and skin allergies. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Golden Retriever need?
Feathered double coat; brush several times a week; heavy shedding.
Who does a Golden Retriever suit?
It often suits active families wanting a sociable companion. They are not guard dogs, and they need company and daily exercise.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.