Golden Retriever
Breed Stats
How Do You Adopt a Golden Retriever?
The golden retriever is one of the most beloved dog breeds around today, and not only is this pup an icon of the United States, but they are also loving, loyal companions that bring joy into many people’s lives. When considering adding a golden retriever into your life, it’s important that you understand the best way to adopt this breed and the overall cost of golden retriever adoption. We go over these factors below, so you know exactly what it takes to adopt a golden retriever.
Can I Adopt a Golden Retriever From a Shelter?
Golden retrievers tend to be an in-demand dog breed, and they do not turn up in shelters that often. This is especially true of purebred golden retrievers, which almost always come from breeders and need to be purchased; it is unlikely that this type of dog would be turned over to a shelter, and many breeders have agreements in place that an owner must return the dog to the breeder if they are no longer able to care for them.

That being said, you may be able to find golden retrievers and golden retriever mixed breeds in local animal shelters and rescues. There are also several national organizations dedicated to rehoming golden retrievers into loving families if their owners can no longer take care of them.
It takes some dedicated research to discover the adoption options around you, and if you cannot adopt from a shelter or rescue, your next step is to locate a golden retriever breeder.
Finding a Breeder
When looking for a breeder to buy a golden retriever puppy from, it’s important that you take the time to locate a reputable and ethical breeder. Breeders who appear to be operating a backyard breeding operation, those who are not knowledgeable about the breed, and those who do not let you see the parent dogs or are unwilling to discuss their breeding operation with you should be treated with caution.
Many backyard breeders and unethical breeders may not consider the health and safety of the dogs, leading to golden retriever puppies with health issues; supporting such breeders can encourage mistreatment of animals, and it may even be illegal in your state to support backyard breeding operations.
A reputable breeder will take the time to learn about you as much as they allow you to ask questions and learn about them. They might show you where the dogs are kept and introduce you to the parent dogs. You will also likely need to sign a contract agreeing to the breeder’s terms when purchasing the puppy.
Fortunately, golden retrievers are popular, so it shouldn’t take you a huge amount of time to find a reputable breeder to purchase your puppy from.
Adoption Costs
On average, adopting a golden retriever puppy or adult from a shelter will cost a few hundred dollars; shelters and rescues tend to be cheaper as the main function of a shelter is to rehome a dog in need. Breeders will be more expensive, and you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 for your golden retriever, depending on your location, the breeder, and the genetics of your puppy
For Even More Information on Golden Retrievers
View Breed InfoGolden Retrievers For Adoption
How to Care for an Adopted Golden Retriever?
Ensuring that your adopted golden retriever gets the best care possible is an essential part of keeping them healthy and happy; proper care can also catch health issues before they become too serious and ensure that your golden retriever lives a long life.
In general, the basics that your golden retriever will need include a healthy diet of fresh or dry food (or a combination of both food types), constant access to fresh water, their own toys, a bed in your home, and frequent exercise. Your golden retriever will also need several moderate-length walks each day, and these pups love to exercise with their owners, so taking them on outdoor adventures is always a good idea.


Golden retrievers as a breed are very eager to please, and they will usually benefit from firm and consistent training routines. This breed is commonly utilized as a service dog, and they tend to enjoy learning new tasks and supporting their owners throughout their days. You can start your dog’s training from puppyhood, and build on basic tasks with more complex tasks as your golden retriever grows up. These dogs are great candidates for things like agility training, as they love to learn, play, and exercise.
Your golden retriever will need brushing daily, and these dogs tend to shed quite a bit. Make sure that you take your dog to a groomer every couple of months for any trimming needs, though you can bathe your dog at home as needed. Ear cleaning and nail trimming can be done routinely, and it helps to train your dog to tolerate this from a young age so it is easier to care for them as they get older.
Golden retrievers are very attached to their families, and they can develop anxiety or other behavioral issues when left alone for more than six to eight hours at a time. You must acknowledge this dog’s higher need for attention and companionship when thinking about whether or not they would be a good fit for you – if you are always traveling or work long 12-hour shifts most days of the week, this breed might not be the best choice.
Is It a Good Idea to Adopt a Golden Retriever As Your First Dog?

Golden retrievers make a great choice if this is the first dog you are considering adding to your life. These dogs are pleasant, easy going, and generally very easy to train, which makes them more accessible to individuals who may not have owned dogs before, or those who are just figuring out how to create a routine with their dog. Golden retrievers are also adaptable and fit in well with children and other pets, something that enables them to adapt to any kind of family unit.
If you are planning on making a golden retriever your first dog, it’s important to be aware that these dogs do need to stay active and they need plenty of affection and attention from their owners in order to stay happy. Routine training is a must for the golden retriever to keep their minds active as well.
ndividuals who work long hours away from home, those who cannot give their dog the daily exercise they need, and those who are dealing with other high-demand dogs might not make the best homes for the golden retriever. It’s always important to consider the dog’s needs as well as your own when addin a first dog to your lifestyle.


Adopt the Right Golden Retriever for You
Adopting the right golden retriever for you involves taking your time to really think about whether or not this breed is the best choice for your lifestyle – golden retrievers are friendly, amenable, and loving, and you must be able to provide the exercise, attention, and care they need to stay happy.
Always remember to look for a reputable breeder when searching for a golden retriever to adopt, and keep in mind red flags for breeders. It’s important not to rush this process and to take your time speaking with breeders, looking at local shelters and rescues, and thinking about the routine you could have with your dog to ensure that when you finally add a golden retriever to your family, they are a perfect, lifelong fit.