Golden Retriever: temperament, care and good with kids
The Golden Retriever is the very picture of a gentle family dog. A mild temperament, tolerance and eagerness to cooperate make them one of the best dogs for a first life with children.
Temperament
They're gentle, friendly and even-tempered. They cope poorly with being alone or with conflict, but love closeness and shared activity. Thanks to their intelligence and willingness, they train easily.
Good with children
★★★★★
The Golden Retriever is among the most tolerant breeds with children, patient and kind even with the youngest. The usual rule of supervision and respecting the dog's rest still applies.
Care & upkeep
The long coat needs brushing two to three times a week, and daily during shedding. Check the ears (prone to infections). Otherwise they're a healthy but shedding breed.
Exercise & daily routine
They need regular exercise, ideally around 1.5 hours a day, plus mental work. They love water and retrieving. Without exercise they get bored and may gain weight.
Can you handle the daily care?
TestDog simulates the real routine of caring for a virtual dog — feeding in set windows and walks tracked by your pedometer. Try the responsibility for real before you get a Golden Retriever or any other breed.
Download on theApp StoreWho the Golden Retriever suits
Ideal for families with children who enjoy being active and want a sociable, controllable dog. Not suited to people who are away all day — they cope poorly with long periods alone.
Compare with other breeds in our dog breed guide.