What is the Size of a Golden Retriever?

A dog breed that originated from Scotland, the golden retriever is a kind of dog that was developed originally to serve as a gundog for retrieving upland game and waterfowl while hunting. Thanks to their notable versatility and intelligence, this type of dog can also serve as guide dogs and hunting dogs. Likewise, it can also be used for search and rescue as well as in illegal drug detection. In addition to these things, it is also good to find out the size of a golden retriever.

The Size of a Golden Retriever

What is the size of a golden retriever? The appearances of this particular dog breed vary depending on the type. For instance, British type retrievers have blockier foreheads and shorter muzzle. They also have shorter tails, deeper chests and shorter legs. Because of these features, they are heavier than Canadian-type retrievers. The average height of males ranges from 56 to 61 centimeters or 22 to 24 inches. Females are shorter, with an average height of 51 to 56 centimeters or 20 to 22 inches.

Compared to their British counterparts, the American type golden retrievers are less stocky and lankier. At the height of the shoulders, the average height of males range from 22 to 24 inches or 58 to 61 centimeters. For females, the average height is 21.5 to 22.5 inches or 55 to 57 centimeters. The average weight of males is from 65 to 75 pounds. For females, the average is 55 to 65 pounds. Their gait is well coordinated, powerful, smooth and free.

In addition to the British type retrievers and American type retrievers, there are also Canadian golden retrievers. These dogs are very much like the American type, specifically in terms of weight and height.

Additional Facts and Other Important Details

Because of the superior intelligence of golden retrievers compared to other dog breeds, they are able to perform a wide array of tasks. They excel in field trials, dock jumping and swimming. Furthermore, they easily dominate agility and obedience rings.

It is very important to provide these dogs with special care and attention because like all other dog breeds, diseases and illnesses can cause insurmountable pain and suffering to these lovely creatures. They are usually at risk of Lyme disease and hemophilia. They can also suffer from different kinds of allergies and skin diseases like lick granuloma, sebaceous adenitis and seborrhea. Joint diseases are also very common including cruciate ligament rupture, panosteitis and patella luxation. Eye diseases can be very problematic, specifically glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts.