Golden Retrievers’ pros and cons give you complete insight into whether Golden Retriever is right for you. These dogs are one of the most popular breeds worldwide. they are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and friendly nature. But before you decide to bring one into your life, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of owning a Golden Retriever. While they are fantastic companions, there are some important considerations to remember.
5 Reasons for not owning Golden Retrievers: Golden Retriever Cons
Now if you already know about golden retrievers’ pros, then you should also know about golden retrievers’ cons, so that you stay careful before doing anything.
1. They Shed And Drool
Golden retrievers have a lot of fur and they shed quite a bit If you get a golden retriever, you’ll find their hair everywhere. On your furniture, your clothes, and even in your food sometimes. You will need to vacuum a lot more than usual. Also, golden retrievers can drool, especially after drinking water or eating. So, if you are not into cleaning up dog hair and drool, this might be a downside.
2. They Are The Worst Guard Dogs
Golden retrievers are super friendly and love meeting new people. While this is great for socializing, it’s not so great if you are looking for a guard dog. They are more likely to greet strangers with a wagging tail than a warning bark. If you want a dog to protect your home, a golden retriever might not be the best choice.
3. They Are Not The Healthiest Of Breeds
Unfortunately, golden retrievers are prone to certain health issues. They can suffer from hip dysplasia, heart problems, and cancer. Vet visits can be frequent and costly. And it can be hard to see your pup not feeling well. If you are considering a golden retriever, be prepared for potential health problems.
4. No Ideal For People Away From Home Mostly
Golden retrievers thrive on companionship and can get really sad if left alone for long periods. If you have a busy schedule and you are away from home a lot, this breed might not be the best fit for you. They can develop separation anxiety and may become destructive if they are bored and left alone. Golden retrievers need a lot of attention and love from their owners.
5. Large Size
Golden Retrievers are large in size and might not be suitable for apartment living or compact housing. They need ample space for outdoor activities, and compact housing can make them prone to other health problems.
5 Reasons for Owning Golden Retrievers: Golden Retriever Pros
There are some golden retriever pros that help you to know better about your golden retriever.
1. They Are Even Tempered
Golden retrievers are known for their calm and gentle nature. They are not the type of dogs that get easily upset or aggressive. Whether you have a lazy day at home or a busy one with many activities, a golden retriever will be your relaxed and happy companion. Their temperament makes them great pets for families, singles, and everyone in between.
2. They Get Along Well With Everyone
One of the best things about golden retrievers is that they are super friendly. They get along well with everyone. From little kids to older adults, if you have other pets, a golden retriever will likely become friends with them too. This breed is known for being sociable and loving, making them perfect for households with lots of different people and animals.
3. They Have A High Drive To Please Their Owners
Golden retrievers really love making their owners happy. They are eager to learn new tricks and commands, which makes their training sessions a lot easier. Whether it’s fetching the newspaper, playing games, or just sitting by your side, a golden retriever will do it with enthusiasm. Their desire to please makes them not only obedient but also a joy to have around.
4. They Look Gorgeous
Golden retrievers are gorgeous. Their golden coats are shiny and soft, and they have so adorable, expressive eyes. They always seem to be smiling, which can brighten anyone’s day. Taking your golden retriever for a walk often means getting lots of compliments from strangers about how gorgeous your dog is. Even the mini Goldens are equally attractive and adorable.
5. Therapy and Service Dogs
The Golden Retrievers are often chosen for therapy, emotional support, and guide dog roles due to their calm demeanor.
Pros and Cons of Golden Retrievers Vs. Mini Golden Retrievers
Mini Golden Retrievers are bred to combat the problems faced by keeping a full-grown retriever.
| Aspect | Golden Retriever | Mini Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large; 55–75 lbs, 20–24 inches tall. | Smaller; 20–50 lbs, 14–20 inches tall, easier to handle in smaller homes. |
| Energy Levels | High energy; needs 1–2 hours of exercise daily. | Moderate energy; needs about an hour of exercise daily. |
| Temperament | Friendly, gentle, and great with kids and other pets. | Similar temperament; friendly and affectionate, with slight variations based on mixed genetics. |
| Health | Prone to hip dysplasia, heart issues, and cancer. | Potential hybrid vigor but may inherit genetic issues from parent breeds (e.g., Poodle or Cocker Spaniel). |
| Shedding | Heavy shedder; requires frequent brushing to manage fur. | Moderate shedding; often has a low-shedding coat if mixed with Poodle. |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years. | 10–15 years, depending on parent breeds. |
| Cost | Lower initial cost, but higher long-term maintenance expenses. | Higher upfront cost; breeders charge a premium for “mini” versions. |
| Trainability | Highly trainable and eager to please. | It is also trainable, but some mixes may require more patience (e.g. if mixed with a more independent breed). |
| Apartment Suitability | Less suitable for small spaces due to size and energy. | It is better suited for apartment living due to its smaller size. |
| Compatibility with Families | Excellent; thrives in family settings. | Also excellent, especially for families wanting a smaller dog. |
Conclusion
To own a golden retriever, you need to be committed to taking care of them. Golden retrievers need a happy lifestyle that matches their needs. They end up frustrated and unhappy if they get into the wrong family among unsuitable people. So, if you want your golden retriever to stay connected and happy with you, you need to be available for them whenever they need. You can also opt for a mini golden retriever if you love the calm nature of a golden retriever. You can also check out for updated information by becoming a member of the forums set up for this wonderful companion and how you can convert some of the cons into pros by taking necessary actions.
