The General Appearance of the Golden Retriever as described in the breed standard is as follows: symmetrical, balanced, active, powerful, level mover; sound with kindly expression. The Golden Retriever is a medium to large dog, who possesses a medium to long coat. Their colour ranges from gold to cream. They are an active breed that thrives on training and interaction with their family.

Temperament

The Standard of the Golden Retriever specifies their temperament as - kindly, friendly and confident. A Golden Retriever should never be shy or aggressive. They should be a happy, outgoing dog. The characteristics of the breed from the breed standard state: Biddable, intelligent and possessing natural working ability. When choosing a Golden Retrievers you need to be able to observe and interact with the mother of the puppies, and to see the litter and how the puppies behave in their interactions with each other and with people. If you are not allowed to see the mother and other puppies in the litter (if there was more than one), alarm bells should ring. Both the mother and puppies should be happy and outgoing. Avoid shy or timid puppies.

Health

Golden Retrievers are a healthy breed of dog who tend to live on average 12 or 13 years. It is not uncommon to hear of Goldens living well past 15. Like all breeds of dogs, Golden Retrievers as a breed are disposed to certain genetic diseases. Responsible breeders, breed clubs, the Australian National Kennel Association and Dogs NSW (and parallel bodies interstate) have been endeavouring to eliminate or at least reduce the incidence of the most common hereditary diseases by screening breeding stock. The diseases for which such screening is required in Golden Retrievers are: