Click a Topic Below to Expand
How Your Puppy is Raised »

WE OFFER LEVEL 2 TRAINED PUPPIES. THIS INCLUDES ALL THE TRAINING FROM LEVEL ONE CONTINUED PLUS LEASH TRAINING, CRATE TRAINING, AND COMMAND TO STATION, CRATE, NAP, AND LEAVE IT. THE 'COME' COMMAND IS ALSO REINFORCED. PUPPIES SLEEP ALL NIGHT IN THE CRATE, RIDE IN THE CAR CRATED OR RESTAINED. CONTACT US FOR FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS TRAINING. SUG

At Southern Utah Goldens we use the utmost care in helping your puppy to be a loving family member before you even bring him home. He is raised in the house and in the yards around a busy family. You will be delighted to see that your puppy is not easily frightened by loud household noises. We have used white noise to calm your puppy and he is used to many different voices talking to him.

We do not use harsh measures with our dogs. We use the Rule of 7 for surface training, socialization, and introduction to new and different environments and challenges. Our puppies are not raised alone but in the litter and with other dogs where they learn their first social skills. All medical procedures for our puppies are done by a reputable Veterinarian doctor starting at 3-5 days of age with a full examination. Dewclaw removal, shot series, microchip, worming, fecal tests, and health examinations are preformed by the doctor and his staff and noted on the puppy's individual medical record.

Under supervision, they are taught to use the dog door to go potty outside and introduced to the crate. Puppies are fed, sleep, and potty on a schedule. Puppies and dogs need time to rest undisturbed to remain healthy and happy.

Your puppy is available at 8 weeks of age. We often keep a few puppies for one to two weeks more for further training. The cost is $200 a week. We are NEVER harsh with your dog and treat him with respect, kindness, love, and a firm hand. (Check out our videos on the Facebook link on the Home Page. We feature the current litter so you can see your pup in action!) We hope you will enroll your puppy in a training program as soon as he has completed his shot series. It will make all the difference to train him early. AKC offers classes through several different vendors.

When puppies are on the ground and we are sure of a reservation spot for you, you will be sent a Puppy Package full of information. We ascribe to the methods of Zak George and you will receive a copy of his book. We urge you to read this - mark and memorize. It is an easy reference book and when you are stumped you will be relieved to know that most things are explained in detail and are at your fingertips.

Allow time to get to know your puppy. Schedule at least 3 days of little to no interruptions so you can dedicate time to welcoming your new family member. You wouldn't adopt a child and just leave it in the playpen all day! The same principles of bonding apply to your puppy. Time spent up front will save you mountains of work down the road undoing mistakes.

Your puppy will be micro-chipped and we will handle the registration with AKC and AKC-Reunite. AKC-Reunite is the animal recovery arm of AKC. There is no downtime to micro-chipping and this unique identification number goes into a worldwide data bank. If ever your dog comes up missing you can notify AKC. All shelters are required to scan new dogs. The number will then be matched to your information and you will be contacted.

We offer only Limited Registration. That means that you have no breeding rights and that you promise to spay or neuter your dog no earlier than 8 months of age. We have included a link to a research paper on the positive and negative effects of spaying and neutering dogs. Please take the time to read it.

Female Golden Retrievers can experience their first heat as early as 9 months but our females have all been close to a year. We anticipate that this trend will carry to their offspring. Please refer to our Guarantee and Contract for information regarding spaying and neutering.

Our puppies have their dewclaws removed at 3 to 5 days of age by our Veterinarian. You will also receive a certificate of health and an on going medical record book listing all vaccinations, medications, and wormings. Remember, your puppy is not fully immunized until he is 16 weeks of age or 5 days after his last 4 in one shot. Your Veterinarian may or may not advise the 4th immunization. It will be up to you to protect him for the first few weeks from infections that could be serious for him. Parvo Virus is deadly for puppies and very expensive for you to treat so please work this time commitment into your plans as you look forward to bringing home your new puppy.

We look forward to meeting our new puppy owners and will continue to work closely with you so your puppy is just the dog you are looking for.

Warmest Regards, Eric and Marsha Nielson

Frequently Asked Questions »

1. How Long do Golden Retrievers Live?

Typically, golden retrievers live to between 10 and 13 years of age, provided they are properly cared for.

2. How Big Will My Golden Retriever Get?

Golden retrievers are classified by the AKC as a medium-sized dog. Males average at 65-75 pounds and 23-24 inches in height at the withers(the ridge between the shoulder plates) and females average 55-65 pounds and 21½-22½ inches. Bear in mind, that if you choose a litter's runt, your animal will likely be smaller than average. This is normal, does not indicate any sort of genetic defect, and is often a desired trait when the purchaser has a smaller build, limited space, or for an indoor pet.

3. What is the Difference Between English Creme and American Golden Retrievers?

When competing in conformation shows, extremes in coloring are generally disallowed. As a result, American and Canadian breeds tend to range between golden-yellow and golden-brown. Dogs with coats that are too light, dark or red are generally considered undesirable in these North American breeds.

In Europe, however, creme coloring is considered by judges and regulatory boards to be not only acceptable but highly desirable. These are what we refer to as English Creme Retrievers. English Creme Golden Retrievers have become highly sought after as they are actually closer in color to the original line than American breeds.

4. What About Temperament?

With a friendly and reliable temperament, golden retrievers are highly sought after as household pets and guide dogs. New owners often express concern about letting small children play with their new pet. Golden retrievers are highly intelligent and playful as well as patient, often giving great allowance to the grabbing, uncoordinated nature of small children without becoming angry or defensive. A properly trained and cared-for Golden will not only get along with your child but will be an excellent companion during their developmental years.

5. Do Golden Retrievers Shed?

Yes. Golden retrievers shed and will need to be brushed regularly.

6. What are the costs and process involved in owning a Southern Utah Golden?

We require a $500 down payment to hold your puppy. We do take early reservations for planned litters. We sell or puppies, male and female for $3800. Utah State Sales Tas is $256.50 as of this update, January, 2024. There is a high demand for English Cream Goldens from reputable breeders. We encourage new clients to get their deposits in early. If there is any problem with the breeding, we will contact you immediately and give full refund. We do not make our final selection until we have performed the Volhard Temperament test on all of the puppies at age 7 weeks. At that time, all of our puppies will be placed with their new owners. The pictures and placeholders for each puppy will remain with an "Available" turned down corner until 7 weeks when our selections are made. At that time the corner on each picture will read "Reserved." When the puppy is picked up or we fly your puppy to you, and after final payment, we will then mark the picture as "Sold." We hope to get a "RESERVED" counter on the website in the near future. We encourage a visit to our home and take into account early preferences but we carefully match the puppy with the long term wishes of the new owners. We have been very successful with this. After all, we know our puppies best. Please use our contact page or the links below to contact us. Our puppies range in price depending on the level of training they receive. All of our puppies have basic training to dog door, crate introductions, sleeping all night without soiling their area, sit on command, soft mouth, (no nipping at hands and feet) kisses, come when called, and accustomed to sounds of the house, different kinds of people, yards and MANY different sounds and surfaces. They are well adjusted and well balanced emotionally. They are quite frankly, amazing puppies. Cost for all this training is in the basic price of each dog. Contact us for current pricing. Marsha 435-619-5882

History of the Breed »

January 27, 2018 By jbadminuser

The white golden retriever, also called the English cream golden retriever, might appear to be a different species than its tawny American cousin. In fact, despite the former’s platinum coloring, it is just as much a golden retriever as the darker dog.

Whereas the American Kennel Club influenced the development of the classically gold-coated golden retriever, the Kennel Club of the UK governed the development of the white golden retriever and all of its unique characteristics.

English White Golden Retriever vs. American Golden Retriever

The differences between the American and English golden retriever go beyond coat color. White golden retrievers tend to have more level shoulder-to-tail profiles, or toplines, while the American goldens have sloping backs. The English cream’s head is wider, its eyes are bigger and rounder, and its ears are set lower and further forward than its counterpart. Its tail extends level with its back and does not have the upward curve of the American variant’s tail.

An average male white golden grows to 22-24 inches tall; a female just 20-22 inches. It has a stocky build and a long, protruding neck. Compared to the American retriever, is it less furry, but it still sheds just as much.

Perhaps the most notable discrepancy between the two types of golden retrievers is their health. Studies support the strength of the English bloodlines over the American ones. English cream golden retrievers have a longer average life expectancy: 12 years and 3 months, as opposed to the American golden’s 10 years and 8 months.

Furthermore, a 1998 study found a 61% cancer rate in American golden retrievers, while the UK Kennel Club’s 2004 research showed that just 38% of English cream goldens are affected by cancer. The health differences observed are due to ancestry, not coat color. And of course, an individual dog’s health is largely dependent on its specific genes and its owner’s choices.

White Golden: Past and Present

Like all golden retrievers, the English cream golden descended from Scottish stock in the Victorian Era. The light-colored dog was officially recognized in England in 1936, four years after the darker golden retriever was sanctioned by the American Kennel Club.

Today, most white golden retrievers are bred not in the UK but in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and a range of European countries. Breeders extol the virtues of the platinum pup, but the white retriever is not any more rare or special than its gold and auburn cousins. On the contrary, kennel clubs often penalize the paler coat.

According to the AKC, golden retrievers are the third most popular dog breed in the United States. (They rank eighth in the United Kingdom.) Intelligent and energetic, they have affable personalities and relish human attention. Golden retrievers of every coat color have earned roles as therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, arson detection dogs, movie stars, hunting dogs, and of course, beloved family members.

Raising Retrievers: The Good

White goldens are loyal and capable companions. They will gladly accompany their owners on a jog, a game of catch, or a day at the lake. Agile and obedient, they will play all day and not get tired. They are approachable and child friendly and can be trained to perform many tasks.

Raising Retrievers: The Not-So-Good

Although the white golden is less hairy, it still boasts a thick double coat that can be difficult to maintain. It typically sheds most in the spring and fall. These dogs love getting dirty–and the cream coat won’t hide any of it.

This dog is bursting with energy that can’t be contained in a small apartment. If its need for physical activity is not met, it will likely become destructive in its boredom. An English cream golden retriever is also not suited to a life of pacing the backyard. It needs mental stimulation and companionship or it will be lonely.

Unfortunately, reckless breeding has left all golden retrievers susceptible to a host of health issues. They are predisposed to genetic hip and elbow deformities, eye problems, heart disease, skin and ear infections, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism.

As such, prospective white golden owners should seek out a breeder with a good reputation. A dependable breeder will be able to provide proof that the dog’s ancestors have been screened and declared healthy for breeding.

Golden Retrievers date back to the 1860s at the Guisachan Estate of Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, later the first Baron of Tweedmouth, in Scotland. Sir Dudley, an avid hunter, and breeder of sporting dogs began the breed we know and love with four puppies from a litter sired by a yellow-colored Retriever, Nous, and whelped by a Tweed Water Spaniel, Belle. From these four puppies, a breeding program began which included the Irish Setter, the sandy-colored Bloodhound, the St. John's Water Dog and two wavy-coated black Retrievers. Baron Tweedmouth selectively bred and inbred the bloodline to produce his vision of the ultimate hunting dog. A breed which would retain the soft mouth and easy temperament of the Retrievers of that time, but would be a more powerful and energetic as to keep up with the expanding range of firearms and the new challenges of retrieving game downed over more difficult terrain than was previously possible or common.

It wasn't for nearly 40 years, however, that Golden Retrievers were allowed to be registered, first by the American Kennel Club in 1894 and then by the Kennel Club of England in 1903 as 'Flat Coats-Golden'. The breed name was then officially changed to 'Golden Retriever' in 1920.

Breeder Guarantee »

Southern Utah Goldens can only provide a guarantee on your purchase if the following conditions are met:

1. Puppy must be examined by a licensed and reputable veterinarian within 72 hours of arrival or purchase. Certificate of health is to be documented and submitted via our contact form or to an email address provided by Southern Utah Goldens.

2. Puppy is guaranteed for 10 days after purchase against any deformity, illness, or condition that is the fault of the breeder or conditions of the kennel. Documentation by a reputable Veterinarian must accompany the claim. Full refund will be awarded minus the cost of transportation.

3. We register the puppy with AKC and AKC Re-Unite.

4. Examination leading to a claim of genetic defect must be done by a reputable and certified veterinarian on or before the dog's first birthday and must be reported to Southern Utah Goldens. Southern Utah Goldens recognizes the time it takes to receive the results from these exams and allowance is made for these reports to be returned so long as the examination is done on time. If a genetic defect is found, buyer's claim is for a replacement dog equal to but not greater than the value of the dog at purchase price. No remuneration for transportation costs will be awarded. Dog must be returned to Southern Utah Goldens at the expense of the buyer. Any and all expenses for travel are the responsibility of the buyer and will not be covered by Southern Utah Goldens. Your puppy is guaranteed for one year from the date of purchase against any congenital defects in the areas of heart, and eyes. Eye defects must be documented by a reputable and certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist. Claims for heart defects must be documented by a reputable and certified Veterinary Cardiologist. Information on these tests can be found at these websites:

The Canine Health Information Center | OFA

5. Registration of your dog is Limited and does not include breeding rights. Buyer promises to spay or neuter their new dog no earlier than 8 months. There is a lot of information about the reasons why early spay and neuter are detrimental to the dog's health, growth, and longevity. Buyer also promises not to breed the dog prior to neutering/spaying. Guarantee will be void and contract under violation if these two issues are not strictly adhered to. Please note that female golden retrievers often experience their first heat between 9 months to 12 months.

6. Puppy comes with a certificate of general overall health, microchip, AKC registration, AKC-Reunite, AKC pedigree, Puppy Package sent to your home upon receipt of your nonrefundable deposit, up-to-date vaccination and worming record, and completed training to appropriate age level, plus lifetime support from Southern Utah Goldens.

7. Your puppy is socialized and acclimatized to the sounds and smells of a house, yard and people. We use operant conditioning to train your puppy to ensure good self-esteem and gentle boundaries. We are never harsh. We are loving and handle the dogs often, so they are used to people. We also introduce them to at least 7 surfaces and sounds, different people, fear triggers, locations, challenges such as stairs, and toys and activities such as fetch etc.

8. Choosing the right dog is only part of the equation. You must do your part and take the time upfront to train an obedient and well-adjusted animal. As such, you promise to follow acceptable practices for training without using harsh or abusive measures. This is to create a responsible dog and a lifetime of loving companionship.

Warmest Regards, Eric and Marsha

About Us »

We are a small breeder in the heart of Color Country in Southwest Utah. We enjoy red rocks and big blue skies. We have access to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. We live at the crossroads to Zion National Park, Bryce Nation Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Arches National Park, Canyon Lands, Capitol Reef National Park, and the breathtaking Grand Canyon. Situated in the northernmost part of the Mojave Desert with an annual rainfall of 8.25" we enjoy the most beautiful sunsets found anywhere.

After much research, we decided that the English/European Cream Golden Retriever was the breed for us. We loved their temperament and beautiful creamy white to honey colored coats. We have owned American Goldens in the past and knew what a fine dog they were. Our challenge was in finding just the right bloodlines to breed. Again, after much research, we found what we believe to be very fine bloodlines with consistently good health clearances, hips, elbows, eyes, and heart. Our dogs have very good dispositions. Every one of our previous owners has written to tell us how pleased they are with the temperament of their dogs. Puppies are personality test using the VOLHARD Test and trained with an early stimulation protocol known as PUPPY CULTURE. We also follow The Rule of 7 to ensure that each puppy is courageous and well adjusted to other dogs, people, noise, surfaces, and surroundings. Many of our puppies qualify and are used as Therapy and Service Dogs. Puppies are registered with AKC and AKC Reunite. We do all the registrations for you to make sure that you and your puppy are covered. Puppies will be PRA1 and PRA2 Clear through parentage and Ichthyosis-non-affected. The sire is close by and the dams are on site. All of these dogs come from beautiful champion lines. PLEASE CONTACT US TO RESERVE YOUR PUPPY TODAY! CHECK OUT OUR PUPPY PAGES, PHOTOS, AND FACEBOOK LINK.

We encourage prospective buyers to visit us and decide for yourselves if a Southern Utah Golden is right for you. We love our puppies and are very careful as to the homes we place them in. We offer a one year guarantee and lifetime support. Drop us a line or call, Marsha 435-619-5882

We hope to hear from you soon.

Eric and Marsha - Southern Utah Goldens

Pricing and Payment »

To reserve your puppy, we require a refundable deposit of $500 per puppy. Contact us on this website or call us at 435-619-5882 for the final pricing for each litter. It may vary from litter to litter. As of this update, January, 2024, we are selling our puppies for $3800 male and Female. Utah State Sales Tax is $256.50. We accept checks, cash, or Venmo for the deposit. Payment in full will be required before we can ship or place your puppy. If you live near us, we encourage you to come and see the puppies for yourself. We love to meet new owners and help with the pup selection. Worth the trip! If you wish to have your puppy shipped, there will be a charge for shipping anywhere in the Continental United States. This includes all charges including a veterinarian health certificate, travel crate, and supplies plus travel costs to McCarron International Airport in Las Vegas, NV. We do drive to deliver to some areas and will meet you in Las Vegas if you choose to fly in and to not drive the 2 1/2 hours to our home. We have a Flight Nanny who will deliver your puppy to the Las Vegas airport to meet you or fly the puppy to the airport nearest you. Your puppy will be driven or in cabin and completely taken care of from beginning of travel to delivery. Contact us about pricing. Leave a message in our Contact link and we will get back to you quickly on pricing and updated pictures of our puppies.

WAIT LIST - We will have a waitlist on an individual basis. Just contact us at 435-619-5882 or email at contact@southernutahgoldens.com We mostly work from a reservation list. Reservations are honored first. To reserve a puppy is $500. If there are not enough puppies for the reservation list, we can move you to another litter or refund your money. If you go with another breeder after placing a deposit with no other reason than you changed your mind, you forfeit your deposit. (Did I say that nicely enough, but also firmly.) There is no obligation on the waitlist but we don't take many names as we reserve 4 males and 4 females from each litter. Marsha

Letters and Testimonials »

Allison Johnson - December 20, 2023

We are a Golden Retriever family and we absolutely love the Golden we got from Marsha at Southern Utah Goldens. Our Golden named Sophie is so sweet and smart. We absolutely love her! I can't recommend Southern Utah Goldens enough!

Kelly Depercio - Nov 4, 2023

Omg any puppy you get from Marsha will be fabulous. She does so much work with the puppies before they get to their forever homes. I've been "staking" her for 5 years on Facebook. And we finally had an opportunity to get one of her puppies. I couldn't be happier. Cooper practically came crate trained and potty trained. That was such a relief. Cooper is so smart he's already gotten a couple of AKC medals. And he is so sweet and cuddly I couldn't ask for more. I look forward to a day when I can bring another one of her puppies into our home.

Bobbie Whitney-November 3, 2023

I had been looking for a reputable Golden Retriever breeder for over one year, then I found Southern Utah Goldens!! WOW! Did I hit the jackpot!

I have worked for 10 years with elementary age children in several school districts. I have a wonderful lab that has been so incredible listening to these sweet children read, out loud to him! He makes reading FUN! I was planning to retire him this year and needed a replacement, so I could keep working!

I bought Teddy from Souther Utah Golden’s in May and am in LOVE with this boy! He was so well behaved and socialized when I picked him up! Marsha has really put her heart and soul into her puppies. As a breeder myself, I knew as soon as I met these puppies, they had been loved, loved, loved!! Teddy actually gives hugs!

I would highly recommend Southern Utah Goldens to anyone looking for a wonderful, very socialized Golden! You will fall in love the minute you meet them!!

Scout is so sweet. She's wonderful with kids and the elderly (she somehow knows to be gentle and I taught "rest" to lay her chin on a bed/couch/knee which is endearing) and we are working on therapy status for us to partner and work with kids reading to dogs and/or hospice work. Whoever brings this bundle of pink love home (Refering to a puppy we are selling} is in for more love than they can imagine! Scout Snow has been the best thing I've ever done and I can't thank you enough for being so loving in what you do!

Marsha,

"We are over the moon for our Jake (pink boy, Poppy), he's so loving and loves to cuddle. He has been sleeping through the night, until about 6 every morning, he has been accident free and let's us know when he does need to go out. He is so social and loves riding in the car! The love that you and your family gave to him definitely comes through in his personality. We are so thankful that we found Southern Utah Goldens and our Jake!!!!"

The Duffy's, Craig, Tammi, Chris, Kimberly & Kaitlyn

Sharing an updated photo of our 2 beautiful dogs we got from you. Hunter (on the left) or white boy litter F, and Lily (the whiter one on the right) or purple girl litter E. We love our fur babies! Thank you Marsha!!

Charlie and I are so thrilled with our Buddy! He is a wonder dog! Just under four months old and (I THINK he is) totally housebroken and just so sweet and nice. Marsha and Eric, you are the best!

Dear Marsha,

I don't even know where to start. Willow (White Girl) is even more wonderful than I could have ever imagined. She took a day or so to warm up, but only cried for a whole two minutes at night when we put her in her crate, then it was no peep until 6 am. She is very loving and very smart. She has yet to have an "accident" in the house! She is catching on extremely fast to potty training.

Everywhere we go we get comments on her disposition and beauty.

She is such a joy to take care of and already feels like part of the family. She is getting lots of love and exercise.

We went to the vet today and Dr. Allen said that she has absolutely no health issues to worry about at this time. He wrote a letter regarding her health and we will scan and send it to you shortly.

Sincerely,

Emily

Marsha,

Shadow (White Boy) is the name. Thanks for help picking it out. He did great on the drive home and is now settled in his crate for the night. We love him so much. He has already had a ton of visitors that have brought him a lot of new toys, treats and loves. He made himself right at home and gets along with Theo great. He has an appointment with Dr. Cox on Monday and we will let you know what he says. Thank you again for letting Shadow come to our home.

Robyn and Greg

Eric and Marsha,

We're very happy to hear from you! Lucy is doing very well. We love having her as part of our family and she seems to like us pretty well, too. We will shortly send you a photo of her in her new Christmas pajamas, which she tolerates at least long enough to pose for a photo or two.

She's a smart, affectionate and always-entertaining addition to the family, and we're overjoyed to have her.

Very best,

Barry, Tifani, Wallis--and most importantly, Lucy.

Dear Marsha, Thanks so much for the picture. I am already in love with my new dog. I named her Lucy. She is the best dog! I was going to say, that I took Lucy to a Well Puppy Check yesterday and she is doing great! I could see how Golden Retrievers are good family dogs. Thanks for selling Lucy to us. We love her tons and think that she makes such a great addition to our house. Michelle Washington, UT

Hi, Bailey got his final shot this past week. He is now almost 35 pounds. He is doing well. He is much better when I leave although I do not crate him. He just seems to sleep. He goes with me most of the time and likes riding in the backseat. Everyone loves him. Even the Vet keeps telling me what a special dog he is.

Gene Las Vegas, NV

Thank you, Marsha, I took Jake to the Vet for a check-up last Wednesday. He said all looks good . . . he loves going for walks, and is becoming accustomed to the sounds of the city . . . He loved his time at our cabin, I can see he'll be a great hiking dog. He also was introduced to the pool, but hasn't tried to swim yet. Everyone just loves this pup, and I have referred friends to your web page. Thanks for the photo. Margaret Henderson, NV

HI Marsha, Chad isn’t home yet but I just wanted to tell you he called and was raving about how beautiful the puppy is and how nice you were. Thank you again.

Michelle Fallon, NV

Hi Marsha, Sorry it took me so long to respond. The holidays were busy and I’m just feeling like I am getting back on our normal schedule. Charlie has been just a big bundle of joy for our family. He is very loving and affectionate and so far has been really easy to train. I had anticipated having to enroll us in a puppy training class but to my surprise, we have been able to train him here at home using the books you gave us and regularly working with him. He is exceptionally smart and quick to respond to positive praise. Even the girls, who are only 3 and 5 get him to sit, down, stay, leave it, give and come. He loves his daily walks. We took Charlie up to St. George for Thanksgiving and he was so great with all the grandkids. Everyone just loves him! He is admired constantly for his beauty and his sweet, mellow disposition. Happy New Year! Smiles, Kristin Thousand Oaks, CA

This is a picture of Charlie snuggling with my nephew Logan during our Thanksgiving trip.

Here is one (picture)of Charlie sleeping with Grace.

Golden Retriever General Breed Profile »

Golden Retrievers are one of the top ten most popular dog breeds in America. Their friendly personalities, high levels of intelligence, and natural agility make them an ideal breed for everything from therapy dogs to family pets.

Goldens aren’t high-maintenance dogs, but they are natural pack animals and need to be part of a family. They have high levels of energy and intelligence, so obedience classes are always a good idea. These dogs will also need to be kept busy and occupied so they don’t develop bad habits from boredom.

Due to their long coats, Golden Retrievers are constantly shedding, even if they are brushed frequently. If you are considering getting a Golden as a pet, be sure to have a good vacuum and be prepared to use it frequently!

Sizes

Male Golden Retrievers are, on average, between 23 to 24 inches tall, and weigh between 65 to 75 pounds.

Female Goldens are a bit smaller, and come in at approximately 21.5 to 22.5 inches, and generally weigh between 55 to 65 pounds.

Colors

The American Kennel Club recognizes 3 distinct colors when it come to the Golden Retriever breed:

Dark Golden

Golden

Light Golden

Recently, some breeders have been selling “rare white” Goldens, even though this is not recognized as an official breed coloration by the AKC. There is nothing wrong with buying one of these lighter-colored dogs, as long as you are aware they are not an officially recognized variant.

All variety of Goldens come with thick coats that require frequent brushing. They shed a lot, but most frequently in the spring and fall as they shed their summer and winter coats.

Temperament

Golden Retrievers are known for their puppy-like behavior. While they reach their full size at about one year, and their full weight at two, Goldens differ from other breeds in that they maintain their enthusiasm, energy, and dorky behavior from puppyhood well into adulthood, and often for their entire lives.

This tendency can make them delightful pets, great with kids, and fun, entertaining members of the family. Unfortunately, this behavior can occasionally be annoying, and can lead to behavioral issues if there isn’t proper training and adequate preoccupation for your Golden.

Coupled with their high energy levels, their heightened intelligence means that Goldens need to be kept physically and mentally engaged. Long walks, frequent play time, and family activities are necessary to keep them happy and contribute to their good behavior.

Health

Goldens tend to be healthy dogs in general, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain diseases. Some of these potential health problems include:

Elbow Dysplasia

This heritable disease occurs when the elbow joints don’t form properly and may cause lameness that can require surgery to correct.

Hip Dysplasia

Another heritable condition, this can cause the hip joint to not fit into it’s socket correctly, resulting in limping or lameness and an increased risk of arthritis.

Cataracts

These can form as cloudy spots in the eyes that may or may not impair vision and can develop at any age. Surgery to remove cataracts is generally successful.

Epilepsy

A brain disorder which can cause seizures and tremors. A vet may be able to prescribe medication to help.

Allergies

Goldens can be allergic to many things, from certain foods to seasonal pollens. Excessive licking of paws and mouth generally indicates an allergic reaction.

Osteocarcinoma

This is a bone cancer that is common in large-breed dogs and can develop at any time.

If you are buying from a breeder, always be sure the parent dogs are certified by a reputable vet as being free of potentially heritable diseases or health complications.

More Facts About Golden Retrievers

Goldens were originally used to retrieve small game by hunters – this is where the “retriever” part of their name comes from.

Thanks in part to their sports background, Goldens are very agile and excel at sporting events and agility courses.

Their sweet, puppy-like behavior, friendly faces, and high levels of intelligence make dogs of this breed a great option for therapy dogs, emotional support animals, and disability assistance dogs. Goldens are one of the most popular choices for seeing eye dogs and mobility assistance pets to help with tasks such as turning on and off lights and retrieving objects.

Goldens can also be trained as drug sniffers and bomb detection dogs, and can participate in search and rescue operations. These are truly remarkable and versatile animals.