Golden Retriever
GOHL-den rih-TREE-vur
Intelligent, Friendly, Reliable, Devoted. Originally bred for retrieving waterfowl during hunting.
An adult Golden Retriever weighs 65-75 lbs (male) or 55-65 lbs (female), needs 1,090-1,970 calories daily, and lives 10-12 yrs. Large breeds need portion control and joint-conscious exercise, especially during growth. The breed's primary health watch is cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma). All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Golden Retriever needs 1,090 to 1,970 calories per day. An average male (70 lbs / 31.8 kg) needs around 1,590 kcal; a female (60 lbs / 27.2 kg) roughly 1,420 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Golden Retriever. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
Large breeds face a particular set of health challenges related to their size and growth rate. The Golden Retriever typically lives 10-12 yrs. The breed's primary health concerns are cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma) and hip dysplasia, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
Needs 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise. Goldens are natural athletes who love swimming, retrieving, hiking, and anything that involves being near their people. They maintain puppy-like enthusiasm well into senior years. As a sporting breed, the Golden Retriever was developed for endurance in the field. They excel at activities that engage both body and brain: retrieving, swimming, agility courses, and long hikes on varied terrain. Many sporting breeds develop behavioral problems without adequate outlet for their natural drive. Without sufficient exercise, the Golden Retriever is likely to develop destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety. This is a breed that needs daily commitment to physical activity.
Care and traits
Golden Retrievers have a dense, water-repellent double coat, wavy or straight coat. Origin: Scotland.
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Golden Retrievers, with rates significantly higher than most other breeds. The Morris Animal Foundation's Golden Retriever Lifetime Study is tracking 3,000 Goldens to understand why. Despite this, Goldens remain one of the most popular and beloved family dogs for good reason; their temperament is almost universally gentle, patient, and eager to please.
Heavy shedding is a reality with this breed. Expect dog hair on furniture, clothing, and in every corner of your home. A good vacuum, lint rollers, and acceptance are your best tools. Shedding typically increases during seasonal coat changes in spring and fall.
The Golden Retriever responds exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training. Their eagerness to learn makes them suitable for advanced obedience, trick training, and competitive sports. Start training early and keep sessions varied to maintain their interest.
Tools for Golden Retriever owners
Frequently asked questions
Adult Golden Retrievers typically need 1090 to 1970 calories daily. A 70-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Large breeds benefit from two measured meals daily rather than one large meal, which reduces bloat risk. Working or competition dogs may need 20-30% more than resting estimates. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 65-75 lbs (29.5–34.0 kg). Females run lighter at 55-65 lbs (24.9–29.5 kg). Large breeds carry weight in the midsection and over the ribs. A visible waist from above and a tuck behind the ribs when viewed from the side indicate healthy condition. Run your hands along the ribcage: you should feel ribs under a thin layer of flesh without pressing hard. From above, look for a visible waist narrowing behind the ribs.
Among Golden Retrievers, cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma) is the condition most frequently diagnosed. Talk to your vet about screening options and early detection strategies for cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma). Other conditions seen in the breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, heart disease (subvalvular aortic stenosis). Not every Golden Retriever will develop these conditions, but knowing the breed's tendencies helps you and your vet monitor proactively.
Budget 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily for a Golden Retriever. Good activities for this breed include retrieving games, swimming, field work. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is as important as physical exercise for this breed. An under-exercised Golden Retriever will find outlets for pent-up energy, often in ways you will not appreciate: chewing, barking, digging, or restless pacing.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026