Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic Dogs?
No! Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers aren’t considered a hypoallergenic dog breed, meaning that they’re unsuitable for those who suffer from pet allergies.
The Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever was originally bred in Glen Affric, Scotland in the mid-19th century. It’s thought to have originated from the Russian Tracker (Retriever), which up until the late 1800s was found protecting and herding flocks. Sadly, that breed is now extinct. Friendly, gentle, and energetic, the Golden Retriever is an amazing family pet. They’re reliable and obedient, which is also why they make great guide and hearing dogs. What’s more, since Golden Retrievers are extremely intelligent, training them will be quite straightforward, even for a first-time owner. And, their natural work ethic and devotion make them the perfect breed for the job.
Fun Fact… Originating from Scotland, their purpose as gun dogs was to retrieve game from the water. However, it became apparent, they weren’t great at doing this. So, they were crossbred with a Water spaniel to give you what is known today as the Golden Retriever.
For a synopsis of the details below, skip to our Golden Retriever dog breed summary further down the page.
Golden Retriever Quick Facts
| Hypoallergenic Dog: | No |
| Shedding: | High |
| Drooling: | Low |
| Size: | Medium – Large |
| Breed Group: | Sporting |
| Lifespan: | 10-12 years |
| Energy Level: | High |
| Trainability: | Easy |
| Family Dog: | Yes! |
What’s Coming up on This Page?
The Golden Retriever’s Physical Characteristics
Golden Retriever’s Temperament
Golden Retriever’s Health Issues and Care
If you have specific questions about the Golden Retriever dog breed, check out our FAQ section.
About the Breed
The Golden Retriever’s Physical Characteristics
The handsome Golden Retriever varies in size, mainly dependent on sex.
| Size | Height | Weight |
| Male | 23-24 inches (58-61cm) | 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg) |
| Female | 21.5-22.5 inches (55-57 cm) | 55-65 pounds (25-29 kg) |
With their friendly and intelligent eyes, the Golden Retriever gives an impression of a gentle and reliable companion. Its breed trademarks are a broad head, short ears, and a straight muzzle. However, they’re most famous for their lustrous golden coat, which gives the breed its name. The color of their nose will depend on the time of year — they generally have a black nose, which may change to pink in colder months. This is referred to as a “snow nose”.
Golden Retriever’s Coat
Golden Retrievers possess a thick double coat which is made up of, a:
- Soft undercoat: this acts as insulation in the colder months.
- Long outer coat: the part that you can touch.
Significant shedding is highly likely, exacerbating any allergies you may have to pet fur or dander. The double coat also means they blow their coats twice a year. In that, they shed excessively for some weeks — once in the spring, to get rid of their winter coat in preparation for summer, and once in the fall to get ready for the thicker coat they grow during winter. During this time, you’re likely to notice considerably more shedding than usual, as well as big clumps of fur around the house. Dander will attach to these clumps, subsequently making this breed unsuitable for people who are allergic to dogs.
Golden Retriever Temperament
Golden Retrievers are a gentle, quiet, and intelligent breed. Family-oriented — they are completely devoted to their family, trustworthy and reliable. These dogs are super affectionate towards their loved ones and make excellent, energetic companions for outgoing families. Plus, they usually get along with other dogs, cats, and other animals without too many problems, although slow introductions should be made. Golden Retrievers are very much family dogs and love to be with their hoomans at all times, whether that’s running around the backyard or cuddling up on the sofa.
Exercise & Training
Encouraging Good Behavior in Your Golden Retriever
Smart and loyal, Golden Retrievers are one of the most trainable breeds around — they’re so eager to please. If trained right from puppyhood, they excel at tracking, retrieving, and as service and therapy dogs. They also flourish in sports such as agility and competitive obedience. This breed doesn’t suffer from separation anxiety and can be left for a few hours without any real issues. Your Golden Retriever puppy will need to have consistent training right from the start to ensure they are happy and healthy — they are a dog that loves to have a job. Golden Retrievers are a high-energy dog breed, so best suited to an owner with an active lifestyle to take them out for regular walks.
Similar Breeds
Golden Retriever Grooming
A Golden Retriever requires regular grooming every week or two. They have a fabulous double coat that demands weekly brushing to avoid painful matting or too much shedding. They also need their fur to be trimmed around the ears, heels, and feet. A bath every 4-6 weeks, using a decent doggie-friendly shampoo is also recommended, and their fur should be dried properly. This will ensure that they don’t lose essential skin oils and maintain a healthy coat. Your Golden Retriever will require regular ear cleaning and claw trimming. Whereas, their teeth are generally very good, so regular brushing twice a week should keep their teeth and gums healthy. Find out what equipment you will need for grooming your dog.
Golden Retriever Health Issues and Care
(Skip to the next section) Unfortunately, there are several common health issues among Golden Retrievers, including:
- Hip dysplasia.
- Skin conditions.
- Chest conditions.
- Eye problems.
- Ear infections.
Golden Retriever Hypoallergenic Alternatives
If you have your heart set on a Golden Retriever but the fact that they’re not hypoallergenic means they’re a no-go. Have you considered a hypoallergenic Golden Retriever mix, the Goldendoodle? Or how about a Labradoodle, or Aussiedoodle? The Goldendoodle is a combination of Golden Retriever and Poodle, meaning that they are low shedding and hypoallergenic. They’re also easy to train and make amazing family dogs. Another dog-tastic breed is the Labradoodle, which is a cross between a Labrador and Poodle. Again these are extremely similar to a Golden Retriever in every way — but the amount they shed will very much depend on their genetics. This may be something to consider if you have serious dog allergies. Lastly, an Aussiedoodle may be the perfect addition to your family. These dogs are highly trainable, have high energy levels, and make super family dogs. Their coats are low to no shedding, and they also don’t drool very much.
Conclusion
(Skip to the next section) If you’re allergic to dog fur or dander, a Golden Retriever isn’t an ideal choice for your furry friend, due to their coat and shedding. Unfortunately, no matter how cute and cuddly they are, their coats are a big no-no for allergy sufferers. That said, while Goldens aren’t hypoallergenic, a mixed breed of Golden Retriever and Poodle is a possibility — the Goldendoodle. As could be the loveable Labradoodle or the completely adorable Aussiedoodle. So to answer your question, are golden retrievers hypoallergenic? The short answer is no. However, don’t give up hope, as we’ve seen there are alternative breeds as good-natured as the Golden — that won’t shed. But that’s only the tip of the iceberg. These eye-catching canines are one of the most lovable, attentive, and fun-loving doggies on the planet. Whether you want an attention-showing companion, an excitable playmate or a walking buddy—they’re hard to beat. Sure, around small kids you need to be a little careful—they’re tiny and delicate after all! But for an all-round family and pet-friendly doggie, the Chinese Crested is the perfect pooch.
Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic Dogs? FAQs
Are Golden Retrievers Bad for Allergies?
Golden Retrievers aren’t ideal for someone who suffers from an allergy to pet fur or dander. They have a thick double coat, meaning there are two layers to the coat. The bottom layer is fluffy and soft, while the outer layer is sleek and smooth.
Are There Any Hypoallergenic Golden Retriever Breeds?
Unfortunately, you won’t find a hypoallergenic Golden Retriever. But if you have your heart set on one, you could look at the golden retriever mixes such as the Aussiedoodle or Goldendoodle.
What’s the Biggest Hypoallergenic Dog?
Yes. A Giant Schnauzer is a great large breed that can grow to be between 65 and 90 pounds. Their intimidating size means they are usually bred to be guard dogs but they are friendly and intelligent, making them an ideal pet. A Standard Poodle, the largest breed of Poodle, is also a pawfect choice if you’re looking for a bigger pooch. These intelligent, active dogs love to get out for a walk or a hike, and they’re easily trained, making them a wonderful companion.
What’s the Cutest Hypoallergenic Dog?
The Yorkshire Terrier is one of them. These affectionate little pups are super energetic, yet their tiny size makes them manageable for anyone. Their coats look more like hair and require quite a bit of grooming. Hence, they are the perfect companion for someone prepared to pamper their pooch. A Basenji is another great breed, in part, due to their self-cleaning capabilities, just like a cat. They’re short-coated and mischievous, and these pups love to exercise!
What’s the Best Dog for a Child With Allergies?
The gorgeous, white-coated Maltese is a beautiful long-haired breed that loves affection. They are happy by nature and love cuddles, making them great family-friendly dogs. What’s more, with their unique, eye-catching blue coat, the Kerry Blue Terrier doesn’t shed either. And, as one of the larger hypoallergenic dog breeds, they’re perfect for a family looking for a bigger pup to play with.
What Are the Worst Dogs for Allergies?
Some of the worst breeds of dog for those with allergies are:
- Basset Hound.
- Doberman Pinscher.
- German Shepherd.
- Labrador Retriever.
Are Golden Retrievers High in Dander?
Golden Retrievers are a double-coated breed. This means that they not only shed a lot but with that shedding comes a high amount of dander. Not good if you have allergies.
Golden Retriever Facts Summary
| Breed | Golden Retriever |
| Hypoallergenic? | No |
| Size | Medium-Large |
| Height | 21.5 to 24 inches (55 to 61 cm) Depending on gender. |
| Weight | 55 to 75 pounds (25 to 34 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10 to 12 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, confident, and gentle. |
| Colors | white, gold, yellow, Mahogany. |
| Coat | Coated: soft double coat usually with a slight wave. The Powderpuff variety has a thick double coat that is silky and smooth |
| How much grooming? | Moderate |
| How much shedding | Quite a bit throughout the year and then notably twice a year. |
| Dander levels | Medium |
| Saliva – Do they drool or lick much? | Low |
| Energy levels | Medium |
| How much exercise do they need? | Active. A daily long walk plus some mental stimulation. |
| Health problems | Hip dysplasia, obesity, cancer, and Cardiomyopathy. |
| Suitable for kids? | Yes, most definitely. |
| How much do they bark? | Rarely, unless they have a genuine reason to. |
| Can they be left alone? | Yes, they can and they actually do pretty well. |
| Intelligent? | Yes, very. |
| Trainable? | Yes. Highly trainable. |
| How popular as a pet? | Very common as a pet. They make a dog-tastic addition to any family, especially for those with children. |
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