15 Pawsome Facts About Golden Retrievers That Will Make You Adore Them Even More

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

As a former Golden Retriever parent for over a decade, I can attest that these lovable pups are more than just another pretty face.

There’s an entire world of fascinating traits and behaviors that make this breed truly one-of-a-kind companions.

From their noble hunting heritage to their almost human-like sensitivity, Goldens possess an uncanny blend of intelligence, patience, and goofiness that have rightfully earned them a top spot as America’s favorite dog.

But even obsessive Golden lovers like myself are constantly amazed by the extraordinary facts surrounding these four-legged friends.

So settle in as I shed light on 15 incredible Golden Retriever traits that may surprise even the most devoted owners and dog lovers alike.

15 Facts About Golden Retrievers You Probably Didn’t Know!

• Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland in the late 19th century as hunting dogs to retrieve game undamaged.
• Their friendly, laidback temperament and intelligence make them one of the most popular family dog breeds.

• Thanks to their excellent sense of smell, Goldens are commonly trained as search and rescue dogs.
• Goldens have webbed feet, aiding their ability to swim and acting as natural water retrievers.
• They are born with a soft mouth or gentle bite to allow them to retrieve fowl without damaging it.
• The Golden’s water-resistant double coat requires regular brushing, especially during seasonal shedding periods.
• While there are urban legends suggesting that the breed’s origins trace back to Russian sheepdogs in a traveling circus, it’s actually just folklore and not based on factual evidence.
• Their life expectancy is generally 10-12 years, but some Goldens have lived up to 17 years with proper care.
• They go through an extremely mouthy adolescent phase between 6-18 months of age when they love to chew.
• Goldens have an instinctive love of playing fetch and swimming, stemming from their hunting retriever roots.
• The breed’s distinctive golden color originated from a yellow-colored Flat-Coated Retriever.
• Goldens are very food-motivated, making them highly trainable with positive reinforcement methods.

• Their lush golden coat can come in different shades from cream to copper red.
• Male Goldens are typically larger than females, weighing 65-75 lbs compared to 55-65 lbs.
• Smart and eager to please, Goldens have been trained as guide dogs, search & rescue, hunting, obedience, and agility dogs.