Golden Retrievers are one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world, but did you know that not all Goldens are the same? The English Golden Retriever, sometimes called the British Golden Retriever, is a stunning variation of the breed that stands out for its distinct looks and temperament.
Whether you’re considering adding one to your family or simply curious about what makes them different, this guide will cover everything you need to know about these beautiful dogs.
Breed Summary Table
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Hunting dog, service dog |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | 21.5 to 24 inches (55 to 61 cm) |
| Weight | 55 to 75 pounds (25 to 34 kg) |
| Coat Type | Flat or wavy double coat, medium |
| Colors | Light cream to pale golden |
| Temperament | Calm, friendly, intelligent |
| Exercise Needs | 1 hour per day |
| Exercise Level | Moderate |
| Shedding | High, once or twice a year |
| Lifespan | 10 to 12 years |
| Average Price | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| Trainability | Highly trainable, eager to please |
| Best For | Families, active individuals |
What Is an English Golden Retriever?
The English Golden Retriever is a specific type of Golden Retriever that originates from the United Kingdom. While all Golden Retrievers share common ancestors, English Goldens have multiple unique physical traits that set them apart from their American counterparts. They tend to have a stockier build, broader heads, and a lighter cream-colored coat. Beyond their appearance, they are famous for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them excellent companions for all age groups and delightful family pets.
Breed Origin & History
Golden Retrievers were first developed in Scotland in the 19th century by Lord Tweedmouth, who aimed to create the ultimate hunting dog. Through careful breeding of various retriever breeds, he produced the Golden Retriever we know and love today. Over time, as Goldens were bred in different regions, distinct variations emerged. English Golden Retrievers, primarily bred in the UK and Europe, have maintained a more traditional look compared to their American relatives.
Meet the Parent Breed
The Golden Retriever originated in Scotland in the 19th century when Lord Tweedmouth sought to create the perfect hunting companion. By selectively breeding the now-extinct Yellow Retriever with the Tweed Water Spaniel, along with contributions from Bloodhounds, Irish Setters, and other retrievers, the breed we recognize today was born.
Yellow Retriever
The Yellow Retriever was one of the foundational breeds used in developing the Golden Retriever. This now-extinct breed was known for its wavy golden coat and strong retrieving abilities. It was selectively bred with other sporting dogs, including the Tweed Water Spaniel, to create a highly skilled retriever with an excellent temperament. The Yellow Retriever contributed to the Golden Retriever’s friendly nature, intelligence, and love for water-based activities.
Tweed Water Spaniel
The Tweed Water Spaniel was a key ancestor in developing the Golden Retriever, contributing its intelligence and strong retrieving instincts. These dogs were known for their curly, water-resistant coats, making them excellent swimmers and well-suited for retrieving game from rivers and lakes. They had a keen sense of smell and a natural eagerness to please, traits that carried over into the Golden Retriever breed. Though the Tweed Water Spaniel is now extinct, its legacy lives on in the Golden Retriever’s friendly demeanor, love for water, and exceptional hunting abilities.
Hounds
Hounds played a significant role in shaping the Golden Retriever’s hunting abilities. Bloodhounds, in particular, contributed to their incredible sense of smell and tracking skills. These dogs were originally bred to follow scent trails over long distances, making them invaluable hunting companions. Their calm temperament and focused nature influenced the Golden Retriever’s ability to stay on task and retrieve game efficiently. Hounds also passed down their endurance, allowing Golden Retrievers to work in the field for extended periods without tiring quickly.
Irish Setters
The Irish Setter‘s influence on the Golden Retriever is evident in its athletic build and elegant coat. Irish Setters were known for their speed, agility, and ability to cover large distances while hunting. Their contribution to the breed helped shape the Golden Retriever’s energetic and playful nature.
Additionally, Irish Setters have a striking red coat with feathered fur, which is similar to the wavy, feathery coat seen in modern Golden Retrievers. Their friendly and affectionate temperament also played a role in making Goldens the loving and sociable dogs they are today.
The combination of traits from these parent breeds resulted in a dog that excels in retrieving, tracking, and companionship. The influence of Bloodhounds provided exceptional scent-tracking skills, while the Irish Setter contributed athleticism and a stunning coat. This blend of characteristics makes the English Golden Retriever a well-rounded and versatile breed that thrives in both active and family-oriented environments.
English Golden Retriever vs. American Golden Retriever
While they are both Golden Retrievers, there are key differences between the English and American varieties:
| Feature | English Golden Retriever | American Golden Retriever |
| Coat Color | Lighter, cream-colored | Ranges from light gold to dark gold |
| Body Structure | Stockier, broader head | Leaner, taller frame |
| Temperament | Calmer, more laid-back | Energetic, playful |
| Health & Lifespan | Lower cancer rates, 10 to 12 years | Higher cancer rates, 10 to 12 years |
| Recognition | Recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) | Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) |
Though both versions share the friendly and intelligent nature Golden Retrievers are famous for, English Goldens are often described as more relaxed and less hyperactive than their American counterparts. Learn more about the American Golden Retriever here.
Breed Appearance
English Golden Retrievers have a distinct and refined look: They are well-proportioned dogs with a sturdy, athletic build that gives them strength and endurance. Their expressive dark eyes and broad skull give them a gentle yet intelligent expression, which is one of their most recognizable features.
- Head: Broad skull with a well-defined stop and expressive, dark eyes.
- Body: Stocky and muscular with a balanced frame.
- Tail: Long and feathery, often wagging!
- Ears: Medium-sized, set slightly above eye level, and hanging close to their head.
Their soft, flat, or wavy feathered coats make them extra cuddly, but they also require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
Color and Size of English Golden Retriever
When choosing an English Golden Retriever, it’s essential to understand their color variations and size, as these traits contribute to their distinctive charm and build.
English Golden Retrievers are known for their elegant, lighter-colored coats, which set them apart from their American counterparts. Their shades typically range from:
- Light Cream – The most common and sought-after shade
- Pale Golden – A subtle warm tone
- Soft Honey Hues – A slightly richer cream shade
For a more detailed look at Golden Retriever colors, check out this Golden Retriever Colors Guide.
In terms of size, English Golden Retrievers have a well-proportioned, sturdy frame that gives them a balanced and athletic appearance. Their size varies slightly between males and females:
- Males: 22-24 inches tall, weighing 65-75 pounds
- Females: 20-22 inches tall, weighing 55-65 pounds
Their combination of a soft, flowing coat and solid build makes them not only beautiful but also strong and agile, perfect for active families and outdoor adventures.
Are English Golden Retrievers Good Family Pets?
Yes, English Golden Retrievers make excellent family pets due to their gentle and friendly nature. They are incredibly loyal and affectionate and thrive in a family environment where they receive plenty of attention. Their calm temperament makes them great with children, and they typically get along well with other pets.
Additionally, their intelligence and eagerness to please make training relatively easy, ensuring they develop into well-mannered companions. However, they do require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming to maintain their health and happiness.
Training and Socializing an English Golden Retriever
English Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and consistency, work best for this breed. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into well-mannered and confident dogs.
Introducing them to a variety of environments, people, and other pets at a young age helps prevent fearfulness or anxiety. Regular training sessions, combined with mental stimulation activities like puzzle toys and obedience exercises, contribute to their overall development and well-being.
Don’t miss: How to Train your Golden Retriever
Exercise Needs of English Golden Retrievers
English Golden Retrievers are energetic and require regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy. One hour of daily exercise, such as long walks, jogging, or playing fetch, is essential to maintaining their physical and mental well-being. These dogs enjoy swimming, a trait inherited from their retrieving ancestry, making water-based activities an excellent form of exercise.
Without sufficient exercise, they may develop behavioral issues like excessive barking or chewing due to pent-up energy. Owners should also incorporate mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or obedience training, to keep their minds sharp.
What Should You Feed an English Golden Retriever
Proper nutrition for an English Golden Retriever varies based on age, ensuring they receive the right balance of nutrients for growth and maintenance.
- Puppies (8 weeks – 1 year): Require high-quality puppy food rich in protein and healthy fats to support rapid growth and brain development. DHA and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for cognitive function and a healthy coat. Feeding should be divided into three to four small meals per day.
- Adults (1 – 7 years): Need a well-balanced diet consisting of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Portion control is crucial to prevent obesity, and feeding should be done twice a day. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health, especially for active dogs.
- Seniors (7+ years): As metabolism slows, senior dogs require lower-calorie food with added joint support and digestive-friendly ingredients. Fiber-rich diets help maintain gut health, and omega-3 fatty acids continue to support cognitive function and mobility.
Ensure you consult with a veterinarian to tailor the diet to your dog’s individual needs.
Taking Care of an English Golden’s Health
English Golden Retrievers are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to several hereditary health issues. Some of the most common conditions include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: A genetic condition that affects the joints, leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Cancer: Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers have a high risk of developing various forms of cancer, including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma.
- Heart Disease: Subaortic stenosis (SAS) is a common heart condition that can lead to cardiac complications.
- Eye Disorders: Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can affect their vision as they age.
- Ear Infections: Due to their floppy ears, they are prone to infections if not cleaned regularly.
- Hypothyroidism: A condition that affects metabolism and can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and coat problems.
- Allergies: Some English Goldens suffer from skin allergies, which can cause itching and discomfort.
Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise can help manage and prevent some of these health concerns.
Grooming: Do English Golden Retrievers Shed?
Yes, English Golden Retrievers do shed, and they are considered high shedders. Their thick, flat, or wavy double-layered medium-sized coat sheds once or twice a year, with increased shedding occurring during seasonal changes in spring and fall.
Regular brushing, at least three to four times a week, helps control shedding and keeps their coat free of tangles and loose fur. Using a high-quality de-shedding brush can also help manage excessive shedding. Bathing should be done every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy, but over-bathing can strip their natural oils and lead to skin irritation.
Don’t Miss: Tips on how to minimize Golden Retriever shedding
Cost of Buying an English Golden Puppy
The cost of an English Golden Retriever puppy can vary significantly based on where you purchase one.
- Reputable Breeders: Expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 for a well-bred puppy from a reputable breeder. These breeders provide health screenings, socialization, and proper care before the puppy goes home.
- Pet Stores: Prices can range from $1,500 to $3,500, but be cautious as pet store puppies may come from puppy mills, which prioritize profit over health and ethical breeding.
- Rescue Organizations: Adoption fees typically range from $300 to $800, making this an affordable and ethical option for those looking to provide a home to a dog in need.
- Overseas Breeders: Importing an English Golden Retriever from Europe can cost $3,000 to $6,000, including travel and import fees. Many buyers prefer this option for specific bloodlines and breed standards.
Regardless of where you buy, always ensure you’re working with ethical sources that prioritize the dog’s health and well-being. Learn more about Golden Retriever pricing here.
Where to Buy an English Golden Retriever
When looking to buy an English Golden Retriever, there are several options to consider, each with its own advantages and potential concerns:
- Reputable Breeders: The best choice for a healthy and well-bred English Golden Retriever. These breeders follow ethical breeding standards, conduct health screenings, and provide proper socialization. Expect to pay between $2,000 to $5,000 for a high-quality puppy.
- Pet Stores: Some pet stores may sell English Golden Retrievers, but buyers should be cautious. Many pet stores obtain puppies from commercial breeding operations, sometimes known as puppy mills, where health and socialization are not prioritized.
- Rescue Organizations: If you’re open to adopting, rescue organizations can be a great option. Adoption fees typically range from $300 to $800, and many rescue dogs are already vaccinated and trained.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites and online ads may list English Golden Retriever puppies for sale. However, buyers should thoroughly research sellers to avoid scams and unethical breeding practices.
- Overseas Breeders: Some individuals prefer to import an English Golden Retriever from Europe for specific bloodlines. This can be costly, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $6,000, including shipping fees.
Regardless of where you buy, always ensure you’re working with a responsible and ethical source that prioritizes the health and well-being of the dog.
Is an English Golden Retriever a Perfect Fit for Me?
English Golden Retrievers are ideal for families, active individuals, and those looking for a loyal companion. Their affectionate and gentle nature makes them great with children and other pets. They do best in environments where they receive plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation.
However, their grooming and shedding requirements mean potential owners should be prepared for regular coat maintenance. If you have the time, space, and dedication to care for an English Golden Retriever, they can be a wonderful and rewarding addition to your home.