Golden Retrievers are not just known for their loving personalities—they’re also famous for their gorgeous golden coats. But with all that beauty comes responsibility. Grooming your Golden is more than just keeping them pretty; it’s key to their health and comfort.
Whether you’re dealing with a tumbleweed of fur on your floor or mats in their feathers, having a solid grooming routine is essential.
Why Grooming Matters
Golden Retrievers have a dense, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and even more during seasonal changes.
Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy, reduces shedding, and prevents painful matting. It also gives you a chance to check for any lumps, bumps, or skin issues early on. Plus, it’s a great bonding time with your pup!
Curious about the different shades your Goldie might come in? Check out this guide on Golden Retriever Colors.
Brushing Basics
Brushing is a must, especially if you want to stay ahead of the fur storm. Aim to brush your Golden Retriever at least 3–4 times a week—daily if they’re blowing their coat in spring or fall.
Use a slicker brush or an undercoat rake to reach through their thick fur and catch loose hair. Pay extra attention to areas prone to tangles, like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
Bathing Your Golden
You don’t need to bathe your Golden Retriever every week—once every 6 to 8 weeks is usually enough unless they’ve rolled in something gross.
Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo that won’t strip their coat’s natural oils. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and dry them completely to avoid any lingering moisture that could lead to skin irritation.
Nail Trimming
Nail trims are often overlooked but super important. Long nails can affect your dog’s posture and cause discomfort. Trim their nails every 3 to 4 weeks, or when you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail clipper or grinder and be careful not to cut the quick.
Ear and Eye Care
Those floppy ears are cute but can trap moisture and debris, making Goldens prone to ear infections. Clean their ears weekly using a vet-recommended ear cleaner. Wipe away any dirt with a cotton ball—never stick anything deep into the ear canal.
Also, keep an eye on their eyes! A soft, damp cloth can gently remove tear stains or discharge.
Dealing With Shedding
Golden Retrievers shed—a lot. You can’t stop it, but you can manage it. Regular brushing and occasional de-shedding treatments can help.
During heavy shedding seasons, consider a professional groomer who can do a thorough job removing the undercoat. Vacuuming frequently and using lint rollers around the house will also help keep your sanity.
For more detailed tips on managing your Golden’s fur, read this guide on Golden Retriever Shedding.
When to See a Groomer
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want a professional touch, it’s totally okay to take your Golden to a groomer. They can handle deep brushing, trimming excess hair around the paws and sanitary areas, and even do ear cleaning and nail trims. Schedule visits every couple of months or more often during heavy shedding seasons.
Grooming isn’t just a chore—it’s an act of love. With the right routine, you’ll keep your Golden Retriever looking great, feeling comfortable, and staying healthy for years to come.
Curious how Golden Retrievers compare to another favorite breed? Check out this guide on Golden Retriever vs Labrador to see which one might be the better fit for you.