Goldmation: Your Complete Guide
Have you ever wondered what the combination of a golden retriever and a Dalmatian might look or act like? Or perhaps you’re interested in adopting a goldmation but worried about their health, grooming, and eating requirements. Regardless of why you’re curious, you’re in the right place.
We cover everything you need to know about the goldmation, including their size, temperament, health, grooming needs, and training requirements. You’ll leave this article with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about whether or not a goldmation is right for you.
Read on to learn more below.
Quick Look at the Goldmation
Below is a quick glance at the goldmation in terms of their physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs.
| Weight/Height | 19-23 inches at the shoulder, 55-75 pounds |
| Coat Type | Medium-length, coarse, water-repellent |
| Grooming Needs |  |
| Shedding |  |
| Temperament | Playful, Loyal, Intelligent, Friendly |
| Good With Kids |  |
| Good With Other Animals | |
| Intelligence |  |
| Easy to Train | |
| Energy Level | |
| Barking Habits | |
| Lifespan | 10-12 Years |
What Is the History of Goldmations?
The date of origin for the goldmation is unknown. That said, it’s fair to say that it seems to be a more recent breed, as in the last few decades. While the exact date and history of the goldmation are unknown, there is a lot that we can learn by looking at the history of golden retrievers and Dalmatians individually. We’ll start by looking at the famous Dalmatian.
Famous long before 101 Dalmatians, dalmatians have been around for a long time and continue to be a popular breed. They’re thought to have descended from spotted Great Danes and pointers. While Dalmatians were originally used as hunting dogs, they’ve also been used in wars as sentinels. Furthermore, dalmatians used to function as coach dogs in the 1800s to lead carriages and keep them safe. As coach dogs became less common, dalmatians remained popular. They’ve been used in dog shows, and they’re a common mascot used by firehouses across the world.
On the other hand, you have the golden retriever. The history of the golden retriever is more concrete, and records suggest that the breed originated in the Scottish Highlands around 1868. Originally, Sir Dudley Marjoribanks created the golden retriever by mixing flat-coated retrievers with tweed water spaniels. In fact, we even have the names of the first parents of the golden retriever; the retriever was called Nous, and the spaniel was called Belle. As soon as the golden retriever became popular, it was used as hunting dogs, family dogs, and even service dogs.
Since the golden retriever didn’t come into existence until the late 1800s and the Dalmatian is a rare breed, the goldmation likely came around in the early to mid-1900s.
What Do Goldmations Look Like?
Goldmations look like a combination of their parent breeds but what the dog looks like depends on how many traits it gets from each parent. For example, some goldmations are larger dogs that have long hair, while other goldmations are medium-sized dogs with short hair and floppy ears. That said, if you find a goldmation from a reputable breeder their size, coat, and genetics might be more consistent.
Typically, their ears will be floppy, and their eyes can be dark or blue, usually rounded. This is paired with a medium-sized muzzle and head. Depending on the parent’s genetics, their nose is dark or liver-colored, but their coat is more varied. For example, it may resemble a golden retriever or Dalmatian more, but it is common to see spots on the body or tongue.
As for the build, goldmations have a big chest and muscular body. Their legs are often long and lanky, but don’t let that fool you – these dogs are strong. As for the coat color, it’s usually white and black with some hints of other colors.
What Size Is a Goldmation?
The size of a goldmation varies based on the genes of the parent dogs. Therefore, there is some slight variation. For example, some goldmations may be massive, while others are more similar in size to a golden retriever. When it comes to male and female sizes, there isn’t as much variation compared to some other breeds. Typically, male and female goldmations are around 55-75 pounds and stand at around 19-23 inches at the shoulder.
What Is a Goldmation’s Coat Type and Length?
Goldmations have coats that are similar to a golden retriever and Dalmatian. The coat is medium-length, dense, and durable. They shed about as much as the average golden retriever.
While the coat is less wavy than a golden retriever, it’s just as thick. From the Dalmatian, the coat has water-repellent properties. Still, the type of coat that a goldmation has will vary greatly based on the genes of the parent dogs and what traits they inherit.
What Is a Goldmation’s Temperament?
The temperament of goldmations is close to their parent breeds. This means that most goldmations will want to please their owners and they have a friendly demeanor. Typically, goldmations also aren’t aggressive and you shouldn’t have any problems training them because their parent breeds are some of the easiest dogs to train around.
You may have to watch them with smaller animals and children in the house, but with a few months of socialization training and exposure to your family, you shouldn’t have any problems.
Are Goldmations Good With Kids?
Goldmations are great with children. You should keep an eye on them when they’re playing because of their size, but otherwise, you shouldn’t encounter any issues. Even if you have younger children, goldmations are tolerant of tugging and play fighting, so you shouldn’t have to worry about them harming your child. As long as you keep this in mind you shouldn’t have any issues with a goldmation being added to the family.
Are Goldmations Good With Other Animals?
Yes, goldmations are good with other animals. They have a slight prey drive, so keep this in mind if you’re dealing with smaller animals. This may also cause them to bark at squirrels (and other small animals)or chase after them if they’re untrained. For this reason, we recommend some degree of socialization training at a young age. Other than that, you shouldn’t have issues with other animals, even dogs.
Are Goldmations Aggressive?
Goldmations aren’t aggressive or territorial, so you don’t have to worry about them biting you or fighting with other animals in the house for food. That said, they can become aggressive if they’re trying to keep you safe. You can always train away aggressive behaviors and tendencies with behavioral training techniques if your goldmation is more aggressive than average.
Do Goodmations Bark?
Goldmations don’t bark often, but they will bark when something alerts them to danger. In fact, they may also bark at small animals or people who approach your door. They can also be quite talkative when they’re hungry or want to go for a walk. Their bark is also deep and loud, so this doesn’t make them the best fit for apartments that have some type of noise restriction.
Are Goldmations Affectionate?
Goldmations are affectionate with their companions. Some nights, you may even find them crawling into bed with you to get even closer. They’ll also try to sit with you on the couch and snuggle with you on the floor if you approach them. When it comes to opening up to strangers, they’re quick to adapt compared to some breeds. Therefore, they’re a pretty affectionate dog breed.
Are Goldmations Intelligent?
Goldmations are smart dogs. They’re a mix of some of the smartest dog breeds around, so it’s no surprise that they have some of the best intelligence out there. This makes them easy to train, responsive to commands, and also a little bit curious. While a little curiosity isn’t a bad thing, it makes it more likely for them to get into trouble in your home. For this reason, it’s a good idea to dog-proof your home to ensure that they can’t escape.
Are Goldmations Energetic?
Goldmations are energetic dogs, and we use the term energetic lightly. In fact, they have explosive bouts of energy and will end up running around in circles if you don’t play with them or take them on walks. Aim for about an hour of walking each day. This can be done in two 30-minute walks, or you do a longer 1-hour walk. Goldmations are also good dogs for people who live an active lifestyle. You can take them running, hiking, and on other adventures.
Not up for walking your goldmation? Play fetch, frisbee, or other games that involve movement with your goldmation. As long as they’re getting some type of movement you’ll be in good shape. That said, they will have less energy as they age, so expect a decline in energy after their puppy years.
Are Goldmations Easy to Train?
Goldmations are easy dogs to train. You’re working with a combination of a golden and a Dalmatian, which are both intelligent and easy breeds to train. The golden retriever in them makes it easy for them to learn commands and gives them a temperament that is interested in learning. On the other hand, the Dalmatian in them helps them memorize more complex commands and helps them excel in agility and show dog training. For this reason, most goldmation owners can train their dog
Are Goldmations Good Watchdogs?
Goldmations are brave and alert dogs that will let you know if they feel uncomfortable or if you’re in danger. Their bark is also loud enough to alert you to strangers and they will spring into action if someone approaches your home or attempts to break in. Another key trait that makes a goldmation a good guard dog is how brave and selfless they can be; it’s not uncommon for them to charge into dangerous situations to protect their families.
Are Goldmations Good Service Dogs?
Goldmations can be good service dogs. Golden retrievers and Dalmatians both have properties that make them great physical service dogs, so it’s no surprise that this combination is a good fit for service dog work. They’re also suitable as emotional support dogs (ESDs) and therapy dogs but not always the best fit for psychiatric service dog work because of their size. It’s also one of the rare breeds out there, so you might find it hard to find a goldmation that can work as a service dog.
How to Care for a Goldmation?
When it comes to caring for a goldmation it’s more about being there for their needs rather than taking an active role. You just need to make sure you clean them when they’re dirty and take them to the vet when they’re sick.
You should take them every year anyway as well as schedule appointments with a professional groomer every three to four months. Otherwise, there isn’t much you have to do. For example, their nails will wear down due to playing and walking, and you can keep their mouth healthy by feeding them high-quality foods.
Do You Need to Groom a Goldmation?
Goldmations aren’t high-maintenance dogs. Their grooming needs are low-maintenance to most other designer breeds, so you don’t have to worry about spending too much time or money on a grooming service. That said, there are some grooming things you have to do for your dog.
First and foremost, brush their coat a few times per week. Not only is it great for preventing their coats from matting, but they also love it! You should also trim their nails if they don’t get worn down from walking or running, brush their teeth a few times per week, or feed them treats that promote healthy gums.
As for bathing, you only have to have them bathed a few times per year, which is usually if you have their coats trimmed. Otherwise, you can do so at home if they get dirty.
Do Goldmations Shed?
Goldmations shed. Like most dogs, they’ll shed, and there might be more hair in the spring and fall seasons as their double coats change to accommodate the temperature. That said, if you’re worried about golden retriever levels of shedding, there’s nothing to worry about. Goldmations don’t shed nearly as much as golden retrievers, even if they inherit a lot of golden retriever genes. Make sure you vacuum your home and furniture a few times per week, but you shouldn’t have to worry about falling behind in the hair department.
What Health Problems Do Goldmations Have?
Overall, goldmations are healthy breeds. Designer dogs don’t usually have many health problems due to the breeders focusing on getting dogs with the best genes. However, no dog is immune to health problems, especially when they’re on the larger end. For example, you need to keep an eye on a goldmation’s hip and elbow joints as they age and become less active. Golden retrievers are also prone to some types of cancer, so it’s possible for your dog to have health problems as they age.
Another common health problem to look for is uric acid buildup. This can lead to joint problems and kidney stones, which are common in Dalmatians. Also, keep an eye on their hearing and vision because Dalmatians are prone to sight and hearing loss as they age. Other than these health issues, take your goldmation to the vet annually to check for any health problems.
How Long Do Goldmations Live?
Unfortunately, your goldmation won’t live forever. That said, goldmations live longer than most large breeds. On average, goldmations will live for around 10 to 12 years. While this may not seem like a long time, most large breeds only last for 8-10 years, so if you take care of your goldmation and address any concerns, they can live long and healthy lives.
What Should a Goldmation Eat?
Goldmations need a diet that’s rich in high-quality kibble. These are big dogs, so it’s a good idea to find a kibble that’s made for medium to large dogs. The kibble should also be loaded with protein, vegetables, and any vitamins and minerals that your goldmation needs.
Nutrition aside, dalmatians have a history of getting kidney stones. For this reason, ensuring that they’re drinking enough water is essential. Not only will this prolong their life and health, but it will keep them comfortable. Additionally, weight can be a problem as your goldmation gets older due to how weight impacts their joints. For this reason, you might have to put them on a diet as they get older and less active.
As for the meal and water schedule, we recommend having fresh water available throughout the day and in multiple locations if you have a large yard or home, as well as small meals two to three times per day.
Is a Goldmation the Right Dog for Me?
A goldmation can be the right dog for someone who has the space to care for them. As larger dogs, it’s best to have a home that can accommodate their size. While they can adjust to apartment life with frequent walks and trips to the dog park, you’re better off getting a goldmation if you have a home with a decent-sized backyard.
That said, that’s about the only requirement you have to consider. They’re perfect family dogs and shouldn’t have any issues learning tricks, commands, or training. However, you can also have them trained if you need to. You also don’t have to worry about them getting hair all over your house or making a mess of things because their grooming needs aren’t too intensive. Overall, this makes them easy dogs to care for and a good fit for first-time pet owners and experienced dog lovers alike.