Golden Retriever: Health Problems, Lifespan & Care
Golden Retrievers are friendly, eager to please and good with families. This guide covers the health problems the breed is known for, how long they usually live, and what owning one costs in Canada.
At a glance
- Size: large, about 25–34 kg
- Typical lifespan: 10–12 years
- Temperament: friendly, eager to please and good with families.
Common Golden Retriever health problems
- Cancer, especially hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma — the breed has one of the higher cancer rates.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Skin allergies and ear infections.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Heart disease such as subvalvular aortic stenosis.
- Weight gain if overfed.
Care, exercise and grooming
- About 1–2 hours of exercise a day; they love swimming and fetch.
- Brush several times a week; heavy shedding twice a year.
- Dry ears after swimming to reduce infections.
Cost of ownership in Canada
Expect roughly $2,000–$4,000 a year for food, vet care, insurance and supplies. Large size means bigger food and medication bills.
Choosing a healthy one
Ask the breeder for health-test results for both parents (hips, elbows, eyes and any breed-specific DNA tests). Results can be checked on the OFA database. Avoid sellers who cannot show them.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're worried about your pet, call your vet or an emergency clinic.