Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are known for their friendly, loyal, and affectionate personalities, as well as their intelligence and trainability. If you’re considering getting a Golden Retriever, you might be wondering about the differences between the standard breed and the large breed. In this article, we’ll explore the characteristics of large breed Golden Retrievers and what you need to know if you’re considering adding one to your family.
Large breed Golden Retrievers are similar to the standard breed in many ways, but there are a few key differences. As the name suggests, large breed Golden Retrievers are bigger than the standard breed, both in terms of height and weight. They typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds, and stand between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder. This makes them a great choice for families who want a larger dog that can keep up with an active lifestyle. However, it’s important to note that large breed dogs have specific health concerns that you should be aware of before making a decision.
Key Takeaways
- Large breed Golden Retrievers are bigger than the standard breed, weighing between 65 and 75 pounds and standing between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Large breed dogs have specific health concerns that you should be aware of before making a decision.
- If you’re considering adding a large breed Golden Retriever to your family, make sure you have the time, space, and resources to provide them with the care they need.
History and Origin
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If you’re considering adopting a large breed Golden Retriever, it’s important to know their history and origin. The breed was first developed in Scotland in the 1800s by Dudley Marjoribanks, also known as Lord Tweedmouth. He bred the Golden Retriever by crossing the Tweed Water Spaniel with other British dog breeds, including the Irish Setter, Bloodhound, and St. John’s Water Dog. The result was a breed that was intelligent, friendly, and had a strong desire to please their owners.
Golden Retrievers were first recognized as a breed by the Kennel Club in the UK in 1903 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1925. They quickly became popular in the United States and Canada, where breeders began to focus on developing a larger, more muscular version of the breed. These American Golden Retrievers are generally larger and more heavily muscled than their British counterparts.
Today, the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, as well as their intelligence and trainability. Golden Retrievers are often used as therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, and guide dogs for the blind.
In summary, the Golden Retriever has a rich history that began in Scotland with Dudley Marjoribanks, also known as Lord Tweedmouth. The breed has evolved over time, with American breeders focusing on developing a larger, more muscular version of the breed. Today, the Golden Retriever is a beloved family pet and working dog known for their friendly and affectionate personalities.
Physical Characteristics and Coat
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Large breed Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, as well as their athletic and medium-sized build. Their physical characteristics make them an ideal companion for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
One of the most notable features of a Golden Retriever is their coat, which is lustrous and dense. The coat comes in various shades of gold, ranging from light to dark, and is water-repellent. Their double coat consists of a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat that protects them from the elements.
Golden Retrievers have a muscular and athletic build, with males typically standing between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 65 and 75 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing between 21.5 and 22.5 inches tall and weighing between 55 and 65 pounds.
Their physical characteristics make them well-suited for a variety of activities, including hunting, field work, and agility training. They are also known for their friendly and gentle nature, which makes them an excellent family pet.
In summary, the physical characteristics and coat of large breed Golden Retrievers make them a popular choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities and are looking for a friendly and loyal companion.
Health and Lifespan
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If you are considering adopting a large breed Golden Retriever, it is important to understand their health and lifespan. Golden Retrievers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues.
When it comes to lifespan, Golden Retrievers typically live for 10-12 years. However, in recent years, the life expectancy of Golden Retrievers has decreased by five or six years. In the 1970s, Golden Retrievers lived for 16-17 years, but due to poor breeding practices, the lifespan has decreased.
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One common health issue in Golden Retrievers is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that can cause pain and mobility issues. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent hip dysplasia and other joint issues.
Golden Retrievers are also prone to certain types of cancer, including lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help catch cancer early and increase the chances of successful treatment.
Another common health issue in Golden Retrievers is cataracts, which can cause vision impairment or even blindness. Regular eye exams can help detect cataracts early and prevent further damage.
Obesity is a common problem in Golden Retrievers, which can lead to other health issues such as joint problems and diabetes. Feeding your Golden Retriever a healthy diet and providing regular exercise can help prevent obesity and keep your dog healthy.
Other health issues that Golden Retrievers may face include elbow dysplasia, allergies, hypothyroidism, ear infections, and other health problems. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help catch these issues early and prevent further complications.
Overall, with proper care and attention to their health, Golden Retrievers can live long and healthy lives.
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Personality and Temperament
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Large breed Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly, intelligent, and sweet personality. They have a steady and dependable temperament and are easy to train, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. They are incredibly loyal and affectionate, making them a great family dog.
Socialization is essential for Golden Retrievers to ensure they develop into well-rounded family dogs. They are great with children and are known for their patience and gentle nature. However, it is important to supervise interactions between children and dogs to prevent any accidents from occurring.
Golden Retrievers have a reputation for being smart and affectionate, and they live up to this reputation. They are kind and loving and will quickly become a member of your family. Their intelligence and loyalty make them great service dogs and therapy dogs.
Large breed Golden Retrievers are good-natured and calm, but they are also playful and gentle. They get along well with other dogs and are known for their warm and friendly nature. They are not a breed that is prone to obesity, but it is still important to ensure they get enough exercise and a healthy diet.
In summary, if you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and affectionate dog that is great with children and other dogs, a large breed Golden Retriever may be the perfect fit for you. With proper socialization, training, and care, they will quickly become a beloved member of your family.
Care and Training
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As an owner of a large breed Golden Retriever, it is important to provide them with proper care and training. These dogs are known for their friendly and active nature, and they require plenty of exercise and attention to keep them happy and healthy.
Exercise and Activity Level
Golden Retrievers are an active breed that require daily exercise to maintain their muscular build and prevent obesity. You should aim to provide your dog with at least one hour of exercise per day, whether it be through walks, runs, or playtime at the park. Swimming is also a great form of exercise for Golden Retrievers, as they are natural swimmers.
Diet and Feeding
Feeding your large breed Golden Retriever a balanced diet is essential for their health. You should choose a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake accordingly. Additionally, you should avoid overfeeding your dog and limit their intake of human food.
Obedience and Training
Golden Retrievers are a highly trainable breed, and obedience training is important to ensure they are well-behaved and safe around others. You should start training your dog at a young age and use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior. Additionally, you may consider enrolling your dog in agility or service training to provide them with mental stimulation and a sense of purpose.
Grooming and Shedding
Golden Retrievers have a thick, water-repellent coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and shedding. You should brush your dog’s coat at least once a week and bathe them as needed. Additionally, you should trim their nails regularly and clean their ears to prevent infection.
Overall, providing your large breed Golden Retriever with proper care and training is essential to their health and happiness. With plenty of exercise, a balanced diet, obedience training, and regular grooming, your dog will be a strong, friendly, and well-behaved companion.
Diet and Feeding
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Feeding your large breed Golden Retriever the right diet is crucial to their health and well-being. As a large breed, they require a diet that is formulated specifically for their size and nutritional needs.
When it comes to feeding your Golden Retriever, it is important to choose a high-quality dog food that is designed for large breeds. Look for dog food brands that contain high-quality protein sources like chicken or beef, and avoid dog foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives. A good rule of thumb is to choose a dog food that lists a meat source as the first ingredient.
It is also important to feed your Golden Retriever the appropriate amount of food based on their age, weight, and activity level. Overfeeding your dog can lead to obesity and other health problems, while underfeeding can cause malnourishment and other issues. Use a feeding chart, like the one found on Love Your Dog, to determine the appropriate amount of food for your dog.
When it comes to puppy food, it is important to choose a formula that is specifically designed for large breed puppies. These formulas contain the appropriate balance of nutrients to support healthy growth and development. Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy Formula, recommended by Golden Retriever Society, is a great option for large breed Golden Retriever puppies.
Golden Retrievers are known to shed a lot, so it is important to feed them a diet that supports healthy skin and coat. Look for dog food formulas that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat.
In conclusion, feeding your large breed Golden Retriever a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level is crucial to their health and well-being. Use a feeding chart to determine the appropriate amount of food, and choose a puppy formula that is specifically designed for large breed puppies. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your Golden Retriever lives a happy and healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the average size of a large breed Golden Retriever?
Large breed Golden Retrievers are typically bigger than their standard-sized counterparts. According to Totally Goldens, male dogs can grow to be 56-61cms (22-24 ins) and female dogs can grow to be 51-56cms (20-22 ins) at the withers. A healthy Golden Retriever weighs between 60 and 75 pounds, with some of the very smallest and largest ‘outliers’ ranging as low as 55 pounds right up to 90 pounds (not including overweight and obese dogs.)
What are the common health issues in large breed Golden Retrievers?
Like all dogs, large breed Golden Retrievers can be prone to certain health issues. Some of the common health problems in large breed Golden Retrievers include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, and heart disease. However, proper diet, exercise, and regular vet check-ups can help prevent or manage these issues.
How much exercise do large breed Golden Retrievers need?
Large breed Golden Retrievers are active dogs and require regular exercise to maintain good health. They need at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, such as brisk walks, jogging, or playing fetch. However, it’s important to avoid over-exercising them, especially when they’re young, as this can lead to joint problems later in life.
What is the lifespan of a large breed Golden Retriever?
The lifespan of a large breed Golden Retriever is typically between 10 and 12 years. However, with proper care and attention, they can live longer. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular vet check-ups can help ensure a long and happy life for your furry friend.
What is the best way to groom a large breed Golden Retriever?
Large breed Golden Retrievers have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and shiny. Brushing their coat at least once a week can help prevent matting and tangles. Regular bathing is also important, but be careful not to over-bathe them, as this can strip their coat of its natural oils. Additionally, trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their teeth regularly can help keep them healthy and happy.
What are some tips for training a large breed Golden Retriever?
Large breed Golden Retrievers are intelligent dogs and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Start training them at a young age, and be consistent and patient. Use treats, praise, and toys as rewards, and avoid punishment-based training methods. Socialization is also important, so make sure to expose them to different people, animals, and environments from a young age. With patience and consistency, your large breed Golden Retriever will become a well-behaved and obedient companion.
