If you have a Golden Retriever or are thinking about adopting one, you are probably wondering how long do Golden Retrievers live. In this article we take a detailed look at the typical Golden Retriever lifespan and how you can help your Goldie to live as long and happy a life as possible.
Golden Retrievers are an extremely popular dog.
According to the American Kennel Club, they are ranked 3rd in popularity, beaten by only the Labrador Retriever and the German Shepherd.
No doubt, this popularity comes from the fact that they are extremely suitable pets.
They’re friendly, intelligent, and extremely devoted to their owners.
However, one of the first things you should find out before potentially adopting a new pet is their lifespan.
After all, your pet will depend on your for care its whole life, and you must be sure that you can actually provide care for the animal for the whole time it is alive.
In this article, we’ll answer the question, “How long do Golden Retrievers live?” and discuss what factors affect a Golden Retriever’s lifespan.
How Long Do Golden Retrievers Live?
Today, the average lifespan of a Golden Retriever is between 10 and 12 years.
However, only decades ago Golden Retrievers lived to be much older, usually around 16 to 17 years.
For a long time, scientists were baffled at why the Golden Retriever lifespan was dropping so quickly without an apparent cause.
To find out why Golden Retrievers have begun to die sooner than they did only mere decades ago, scientists designed a survey that takes into account environmental factors, genes, and health conditions that might affect a Golden Retriever’s lifespan.
We will discuss this survey and the implications later in our article.
For now, let’s look at how specifically cancer affects the Golden Retriever lifespan.
Golden Retriever Life Expectancy and Cancer
Golden Retrievers die from bone cancer, lymphoma, and blood cancer more than any other breed.
And no one knows why.
Golden Retrievers are also more prone to other types of cancer, even at an early age.
For example, one Golden Retriever was diagnosed with uterine carcinoma, or cancer of the uterus, at only 10 months old!
This is the youngest instance of this type of cancer every reported.
Some factors have been tied to this increased cancer risk.
According to one study, the early neutering of Golden Retrievers led to an increased occurrence of certain cancers and hip problems.
However, research on the factors that contribute to Golden Retriever’s short attention span is early and inconclusive.
We don’t know exactly why Golden Retrievers are suddenly dying earlier than they were only decades ago.
There is a study though, that is seeking to change that.
How Long Do Golden Retrievers Live Study
This study is being undertaken by the Morris Animal Foundation and just kicked off in 2015.
This study is looking at a number of factors, from heavy metals found in water to the pet’s routine and even physical traits, to discover if there is any correlation between these factors and cancer.
The main goal, according to Veterinary News, is to create a comprehensive database of over 3,000 purebred Golden Retrievers.
This database will then be used to assess whether there are any conditions and lifestyles that correlate with an occurrence of cancer.
Though the survey is far from over and will probably take another decade to complete, scientists are hopeful that they will discover the cause behind these beloved dogs’ rising cancer rate and quickly dropping lifespan.
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In the meantime, it is likely that Golden Retriever lifespans will continue to drop.
How Long Do Golden Retrievers Live Other Factors
Of course, there are other factors that also contribute to the Golden Retriever lifespan.
Golden Retrievers are prone to hip and joint problems.
While these will probably not cause the death of a Golden Retriever, joint and hip pain can greatly reduce their quality of life.
Luckily, there are some things you can do to increase your Golden Retriever’s likely lifespan.
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can decrease their risk for joint and hip problems, and might even decrease their risk for cancer as well.
Choosing a Golden Retriever puppy that is not genetically disposed to health problems can also help.
While it is sometimes difficult to identify dogs with healthy genes, you should always check on the health of a puppy’s recent ancestors to ensure that they do not have hip problems.
A puppy whose parents have bad hips is more likely to have bad hips itself.
Oldest Living Golden Retriever
The oldest ever living Golden Retriever was 20 years old when he passed away.
How Long Can a Golden Retriever Live?
Most Golden Retrievers live to be between 10 and 12 years old.
Genetic factors play a large role in how long a particular canine lives.
Genetic factors likely play a role in a pet’s susceptibility to cancer, which can decrease their lifespan considerably.
Hip and bone problems can also factor into a dog’s quality of life as they age.
Genetic factors also play a role in these disorders, though being overweight is also a big factor in Golden Retriever lifespan.
The Perfect Companion For Life With A New Puppy
Do you have a Golden Retriever?
Let us know how old they are in the comments below!
References and Further Reading
“FAQ.” Goldheart Golden Retrievers.
Smith, Gail. “Evaluation of risk factors for degenerative joint disease associated with hip dysplasia in German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rottweilers.” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 2001.
“Genetic Welfare Problems of Companion Animals.” Universities Federation for Animal Welfare.
Vogelsang, Jessica. “Golden retriever study confronts heartbreak of cancer with unparalleled veterinary research effort.” Veterinary News. 2014.
“Golden Retriever Lifetime Study.” Morris Animal Foundation.
Riva, Gretel. “Neutering Dogs: Effects on Joint Disorders and Cancers in Golden Retrievers.” PLOS One. 2013.
Cave. “Uterine carcinoma in a 10‐month‐old golden retriever.” Journal of Small Animal Practice. 2006.
“Why are Golden retrievers more likely to die of cancer than any other breed?” Daily Mail. 2015.
“Golden Retriever.” American Kennel Club.
Carol Drohan says
My golden, Wilson, is around 12 years. We’re not really sure how old he is because he was a rescue and the vet thought he was about a year and a half when we adopted him, 10 years ago.
This is our fourth golden and is the longest lived of the all.
He gets lots of exercise and is still very happy, very typical golden retriever. I love him so much.
Four years ago he made a full recovery from bloat, so I thought he’s so tough maybe he’ll live beyond 12. My first one died from mega esophagus (adopted), our second one died at 7 from a heart attack, and our third one died at 8 from hemangiosarcoma.
My absolute favorite breed!!!
Jeff says
Our Molly will be 15 in November. She is a wonderful dog but now is having a some problems. Her hips are week and we need to help her stand end up. She doesn’t sleep tho right the night as she barks around 3am as she can’t stand to drink her water. She eats great and seems happy but i sense her quality of life is getting worse ( as is ours with being woken up every night at least once)
When is it time to say goodbye? It is so hard because she is not sick she is just aging and having associated problems
It is so hard to make this tough decision
Linda Saunders says
I hope you can keep her as long as possible and find a way to help her drink I add water to the feed but maybe it’s not that easy with your girl. they are just so lovable and make a great big then shaped space in our hearts . I have two but both have their own huge space cznt bear the thought of losing them 1 of mone is 12 the other 8 so not youngsters but q5 is a great age I hope mine get to that and yours finds away to sleep and drink
Jack says
My golden is 14 and her quality of life has deteriorated. She cannot stand up without assistance, and can no longer go down stairs. I have to carry her outside. Her hind hips have lost all muscle mass. Her appetite is good, but she also displays signs of dementia, which is not unusual in older dogs.
Goldens are absolutely the best. The love that they share with you is hard to put into words. My first lived to be 15.
We have made the gut-wrenching decision to say goodbye. Knowing that she will be free of pain and living an eternal life helps, but knowing how much you will miss her hurts.
The final thing I remind myself is this….the need to be humane and fair. Your dog will always love you.
Christy Lynn Milliken says
My golden retriever just turned 14 years old. His arthritis has begun to get worse. He is the best breed of dog I have ever owned.
Beth says
My golden Kasay is 13.5. She’s been behind the 8 ball from the beginning, but has outlived all her litter mates. Injury at birth required surgery to remove a back leg. It never slowed her down though! About 3 years ago, vet diagnosed GRPU requiring both eyes to be removed. She’s been a trooper though. Rimadyl daily has helped her immensely with arthritis. She’s still as sweet as can be! Just recently diagnosed a MCT on her foot and since she’s only got 3 feet, it’s been a struggle. We are on day 4 of Masivet to try and shrink it before removal. Please pray for my girl!
Linda Saunders says
I am praying it’s great you asked us to. would love you to keep us posted on her
Linda Saunders says
I am praying
Sharon says
We have our girl Sally, who is very large 10 year old that still thinks she is a lap dog. Unfortunately, she is showing signs of age. She is greyed a lot and has the shakes on her hind legs. She use to play catch but now prefers to chew on the ball or let someone else get it for her
V says
I rescued my golden from a friend’s dad who was unable to look after him, that was 7 months ago and he is 12 years and 8 months, he was very weak on his back legs but for the last few months I have been giving him a cod liver oil pill with every breakfast and he has a new lease of life at the park with his 14 month old rescue sister, its not a lifesaver but has definitely prolonged his, I hope this helps and yours lives a lovely, happy rest of life, X
Mona says
Our sweet Golden, Einstein, just turned 14. He has had one cancerous tumor removed with clean margins about 5 years ago and actually got bit by a venomous snake at 12 1/2. It was in our back yard at a 2:00 am potty break and we had never seen one and nor did we see or find the one that bit him. Thank God it was a dry bite but it was the next day before we realized something was wrong. It was rough going but with good vets and lots of love and care, he made it through like a trooper. He is a little slow now with stiff hip joints but he is still sharp mentally with good hearing and sight. Named after a golden retriever from a book I read many years ago by Dean Koontz called “Watchers” he has truly been a blessing to us. I hope and pray he will be with us much longer. Life would never be the same without my constant buddy. Seeing that sweet face tilted up at me and those precious brown eye shining with so much love makes it difficult to fathom being without him. I try hard not to think about it.
Alison says
Our beautiful girl was 12.5 years when we had to make the tough decision on March 15,2019. She started with diarrhea in January was treated with 3 courses of antibiotics. No known cause of the diarrhea after several tests. We changed her food to the vet gastro kind as recommended. The diarrhea stopped then about 2 weeks before she passed she developed a cough Took her into the vet and x ray done and blood work done. X ray showed an enlarged heart and fluid around it and also fluid in the abdomen. Vet tried to drain the fluid to see if it was from a bleed or just from CHF. She was unable to drain any fluid at the time. Treated her with heart meds and Lasix to try and reduce the fluid. Within 2 days she progressively became worse. She stopped eating and drinking and then she could no longer walk. We carried her back to the vet and put her at peace. It was the hardest thing we ever had to do. We had our baby’s girl since she was 10 weeks old.
K says
I’m so sorry to hear that. Your story sounds all too familiar. Our first golden died from a tumor that bled out around his heart at age 11. He was fine one day, the next day he had difficulty breathing, and died that evening. Absolutely nothing we could do accept make him comfy while we let him go. Fast forward 8 years, we have 2 sibling Golden’s…now age 7. We hope they live 20 healthy long years but realize that is unlikely. So, I am reading all I can on how to make them as healthy as possible. It seems the only things we can control are their diet and exercise. There are so many opinions on what to feed it can make your head spin. We are currently feeding a kibble diet (Acana Wild Atlantic) and incorporating some raw food (primal freeze dried nuggets or beef & bone raw meat from a local supplier), no grain. Now I read they may benefit from grain after all.
It’s too soon to tell if the addition of raw and elimination of grain is making a difference so we will keep at it for now.
If anyone reading this has diet advice for Golden’s I’d like to hear it.
Yolanda Febres says
My Rosie passed last week. She was only nine.
She started having seizures in January and last week after her ninth birthday she had several in one night.
I am devastated!!! She was the sweetest dog and never leaved my side.
Sharon says
I am so sorry. I had to say goodbye to my 11 yr old German Shepherd 3 yrs ago. So heartbroken. Time doesn’t heal. But it gets a little easier. xoxo
Diana says
Looking at websites for comfort and came across this one. My sweet Daisy is 16 and tomorrow I made the appointment to euthanize. I’m struggling but she’s ready. She had a stroke last summer and we nursed her through it. She even became much of a clown about her limitations grinning as goldens do. But her heart is failing and she is tired. The vet said the next stroke is imminent and I can’t do that to her. Please keep my family in your prayers
Mona says
I just read this. So sorry. I know your heart is breaking. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
There is a special place for your little Daisy’s soul.
Michael Nathans says
My amazing golden retriever boy Austin is 14 years old. He was a rescue from the pound whom I was blessed to have come into my life when he was 1 year old. He was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer and I am heartbroken. I started him on chemo – 3 so far – but it makes him very tired and inactive and there is no way of knowing how much or little it is helping. I do not know if I will continue with another 3 chemo treatments as the vet recommended as the outcome of the chemo is unknown. The chemo treatments are $1,000 each which is very costly. If anyone out there has any experience with chemo to treat prostate cancer please let me know.
Carol Crans says
My golden Retriever will be 7 years old in two days. We got her as a puppy when my husband retired. We knew my husband had terminal cancer and had maybe 4 years to live. McKenzie was such a blessing for him. He had the time to devote to her. He took her to the dog park one or two times a day. He fed her, groomed her, had her vet checks and gave her preventative meds.i mostly played games with her in the house. As my husbands health started to fail we got him assistive devices so he could still take her to the dog park.
Now that my husband passed away its just me and her. She gives me so much love, and even comes running to my side when i start crying. I feel like she “takes care of me”. I see her turning grey around her eyes and on her muzzle and i cry. I cant bear the thought of losing her. Is there some sort of timeline for when they start turning grey? Is 7 years old typical? I am researching anything i can do to keep her healthy as long as i can
Lucy says
Hi Carol, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. Dogs can turn grey early, just as humans can. I haven’t seen any evidence of this being linked to lifespan, and I read a lot of canine studies, so hopefully it isn’t any kind of an indicator. Wishing you and her many more loving years together.
Margaret says
Hi Carol
Our Bonnie turned grey at the age of three and lived to be 13. I hope you keep yours for many more years to come.
Julie says
Our adorable Golden Ariana will be 14 in 6 weeks time. She is very special and our hearts ache at the thought of losing her. She has just been diagnosed with a nasal tumor. We have set her off on a course of nutraceuticals and have changed her food which has always been high quality to all natural ingredients. We have decided against surgery as we feel she is too old and would prefer to enjoy a shorter life than be subject to fear and pain. She is actually still very motivated to walk and eat so very hard to consider any invasive treatment. We are trying to apply the same rules we want applied to ourselves in the future. She has had an amazing life and given us such joy. We continue to cherish each day.
DANIEL says
I had to put down my dog due to a big ball growing above her hind leg very painfull. she was 12 years old my best freind ever had, we cried for days,,she will be missed its been a week now and the house is not the same without her.i cannot get over doing what i had too do,the vet says i did the write thing,but i question myself still.
Tasia says
Our girl Bella will be 13 this year. She started having problems jumping up into 4 wheeler last year. She loves her rides! So started giving her glucosamine. What a difference it made. Highly recommend it! You wont believe the difference.
Fiona says
My goldie Max will be 16 in May, although heartbreakingly I don’t think he is going to see this landmark birthday. Just taking one day at a time till we have to make that dreaded decision but all the while he’s still getting excited about his walks and eating well we carry on cherishing every cuddle and kiss
Frances says
My sunny turned 23 years this year. Not sure of month all i know is the year she was born 1996. We picked her up from the pound, and the dog catcher had been picking her up for 3 years. She has good days and bad days, but she is happy. And we have enjoyed her alot. Maybe she will make Guinness book some day.?
K says
23! Wow! I think that is a record for a golden. Congratulations!
What has Sunny’s diet been?
Jill says
Just had to put my Annie girl down January 30, 2019. She would have been 12 on February 26th. She enjoyed her walks and play time right up until she passed. We discovered a mass in her stomach in the summer of 2017. It wasn’t causing her pain so the vet recommended leaving it since it could have always been there. The mass burst and caused internal bleeding. She was the absolute best dog we have ever had. We miss her a lot.
Beba says
Bruno will be 12 in April, I hope. He is not doing very well lately. The vet says as long as he eats normally and can walk on his own, it is ok. But we are watching him closely, waiting for change in his health, and we’ll have to put him down soon, I am afraid
I am crying every day, I can’t imagine my life without him. We got him when he was 8 weeks old. He has brought so much love and joy to our family.
Kandice Huyck says
We’ve had 3 Golden’s. Our first, Buddy, was born in 1990 and lived to be 14. We fed him Purina Dog Chow his whole life. He only got rabies and distemper vaccines. He was on heartworm for 6 month per year. That was his preventative for 14 years. Our second Golden, Jak, was born 3-1-07. He will be 12 in March. He has had extreme digestive issues his whole life. We’ve spent thousands of dollars to figure out why. We almost lost him to a severe intestinal infection last September. He has been on every kind of dog food available. He has been a perfect weight his entire life (70-75). He receives all the preventive vaccines out there today, plus heartworm and flea and tick. Our third Golden, Gracie was born 01-07-09 died 09-11-17. She had low grade lymphoma and a secondary cancer of liver cancer that spread to her lungs. She was on all the same preventatives as Jak. Fed 1 cup of Iams dog food twice daily. She was about 65 pounds her whole life. She had a serious reaction to a flea and tick medication a year before her cancer diagnosis. She was 8 when she died. She was sweet, beautiful and loyal. We miss her so much!!!
Chris Simmons says
I am so so sorry for your loss of Gracie. There are no right words to console you. I find it interesting that she had a serious reaction to a flea and tick medication a year before her cancer diagnosis. My baby had a terrible reaction from a flea and tick collar whereby all her skin peeled off. Before that she was a happy, silly, care free girl. Then IBD set in. No more flea and tick treatments for her the next 2 years but natural things. Two years later my daughter found tick larvae on her and rushed her to vet whereby he put a flea and tick chemical between her shoulder blades. She developed hives and welts and her IBD turned into small cell lymphoma. I don’t know how much longer she has but I’m devastated and wonder if it’s the chemicals in these flea and tick meds giving our babies cancer?? Can I ask what kind did she have a bad reaction too? Again, I’m so sorry and crying as I write this.My heart goes out to you.
Suzanne Calvert says
My boy Tex is 14 and doing great! I highly recommend glucosomine (sp?). It made a big difference and he lost 20 pounds over time. He was overweight. Vet is amazed at his bloodwork and he still loves his walks. Cancer survivor too! (tumor on his back leg 5 years ago).
Jean Ryan says
My boy Carson turned 12 on Christmas 2018. He has slowed down. He does have him and joint problems but with a shot of adequin monthly he is still going strong. We feed him taste of the wild salmon, which seems to help his skin. We have 2 shepherds in the house as well as a great Pyrenees, so he has plenty of playmates.
Amber says
My Golden is almost 7 and just diagnosed with severe arthritis in his elbows. Vet is suggesting Adequan…you think it’s helped your pup?
Anne says
Our Golden, Dixie, turned 12 yrs old on Jan 11, 2019. She’s 49 lbs and in great shape. She still acts like a puppy. She’s enjoys running, walking and playing. She is my 3rd child and I cannot imagine life without her. I had heard about the cancer but did not know about the average lifespan. I pray that when she goes, she gently passes in her sleep. I pray that for all of our beloved Goldens.
Catherine says
My first golden, Maggie, was the sweetest girl and everyone loved her. She passed away when she was 13.5 years old. I was sad and cried off and on for days. My golden that I have now, Ginger, will be 13 in May. She isn’t very gray in the face and except for a little trouble getting up sometimes, she is doing great. They always make me smile and love you unconditionally.
Lauren says
Our golden boy Bailey is 16 years and 8 months and I count my blessings every day. I’ve just noticed him really slowing down over the past few months. I’m not sure if he will make it to 17 but I know we are so lucky to have had him this long and we will continue to spoil him every day that we can. We love him so much!
A says
Lucky you! What do you feed him if i may ask?
Inge says
My friend in Australia adopted a senior Golden who is celebrating her sixteenth birthday today. I do not know what they feed her but she lives, along with two other Goldens, on a nice property near the east coast of Australia, large enough for long walks. They do not have city water but use tanks to catch rain.
Whenever Zoe seems to slow down or shows her owners she is under the weather, they call a woman who gives her acupuncture or a massage.
I am glad that their adopted Zoe is hanging in there especially since the couple lost their two Goldens when they were relatively young, around nine years. One of them just dropped dead.
Marie T says
You are so lucky. What do you feed him. Please, I am very confused at what food shd be given to my golden.
Lucy says
Hi Marie, I think you’ll find this article helpful: https://thehappypuppysite.com/best-dog-food-for-golden-retrievers/
Bobby House says
My first golden was 15 years old when he died in my arms his name was Brooks. My golden I have now his name is Baxter and he will be 4 in June. I just love the comments I have read and the golden are the best. Dogs ever
Priscilla Martinez says
Our girl is 14 yrs old starting to slow down. My best friend can go any were in the house without her.
Bonnie says
I have a Golden who just turned 8. He is active but is already turning white on his face. My last golden lived to 12. He had adrenal cancer. My one before that was 13 and had liver cancer.
It seems that our dogs when I was young were fed table scraps and Purina dog chow. They always lived to 13 or 14 with only a rabies shot Never medication for ticks and heart worm. Maybe the drugs are an issue.
But Goldens and English setters have been the best dogs i’ve Ever had.
Mimi says
Do you still maintain that table scraps are ok ? I wouldn’t go without a tuck collar though knowing with their thick fur how easily you can miss one . Our “ GRADY” is 8
Black nose pulled off on a ice when jumping through icy snow when a young boy , never grew the black back. He’s been so healthy thank God . Love him
Beth Charan says
We had to put down our beloved golden girl today. She was 15 years and 9 months. She was the very definition of unconditional love. Yesterday we were all together for New Years Eve. I noticed a lack of interest in eating and very unstable in her walk. By bedtime, she couldn’t walk and this morning the same thing. This was the day our entire family has dreaded. Blessed to have had her for as long as we did but the house feels empty without her.
Rebecca says
I am so sorry. I know the feeling of dread as they age. Skye, our female golden will be 15 next month. Organs healthy, very selective hearing, I use a flashlight for her going down the steps for her at night. Diet has been 95% Iams all her life.
We have another dog who is about to turn 8 and attached at her hip – so we brought in s puppy in July. Best decision ever! He is a big boy and was afraid of the puppy early on – but Skye was back to the 7 yr old who made Avett feel at home. She plays and plays with Darcey (who is 9 months and bigger – adored by both older dogs).
I thought we would be lucky to make 15 years – now 16 years doesn’t seem impossible.
We are grateful for ever day
Meredith Carter says
My friend’s Golden was 5 when diagnosed with kidney cancer in May. She just got over that surgery and was unwell again, this time with an infected cyst on her spleen. This was another surgery but quicker recovery.
In November she had her 6th birthday. Then she started limping badly on front leg so on restricted exercise – vet advised all joints have arthritis.
Christmas Eve she was back to the vet with a bad eye – cloudy and bloodshot. She has to go back Friday for another check as it was too inflamed to get a good like behind it. The vet gave several options – unfortunately opthalmic specialists closed till New Year. One prognosis was possible tumour behind the eye linked to kidney cancer so at this stage she has drops and painkillers and is being kept inside apart from toilet breaks. The bloodshot look has cleared and she is back to destroying toys and giving us her Goldie smile but her owner is dreading the next appt and possible diagnosis.
Paul says
We have 3 Goldens. All from small family Breeders. Our oldest is celebrating her 16th Christmas at 15 1/2 years of age. She’s a cancer survivor as during a routine exam about 5years ago they caught a tumor in its very beginning stages. She’s still pretty active and plays every day. We have another that’s 8 and a third that’s 2. Wonderful dogs and our oldest has been an amazing family member. My son’s 10th birthday present…he’s now 26 and married with kids…
Shawna Lauria says
Our sweet boy Luke is 6 years old. He absolutely loves everybody and is the most kind and happy dog you could ever meet. He has hypothyroid and takes medication for that, chronic skin issues and and chronic ear infections no matter what we do. He is also overweight, even though we measure his food and give him small amounts, we can’t seem to get his weight down, he’s 125lbs, he is a big is stature golden though, he’s very tall and wide boned. I worry about him being overweight and it causing future health problems. No signs of hip/arthritis issues though thank goodness. Does anyone have any tips regarding his weight and chronic ear infections? What worked for you? We’ve tried everything that we can think of. Any ideas would be appreciated. We want him to have the best life possible.
Those that have lost their babies, my heart goes out to you. There’s something about a golden and they just melt your heart and truly make an impact in people’s lives. It’s so hard to lose a family member. My heart is with you if you’ve lost your baby.
Linda says
I had to put my beautiful boy Noah to sleep on Christmas Eve. He was only sick for one day – tumor on his spleen, but the Vet felt it wasn’t the only one. He was throwing up blood. I sat with him for two hours before making the dreaded decision to give him peace. My heart aches for him and feel that 8 was not enough time for him. My first Golden died at age 10 from cancer. I will always be thankful for my two wonderful boys.
Kandice Huyck says
Our first Golden was a big boy like you describe. He was big boned and tall. He was never over weight. He lived to be 14. He was never a good eater though. Our next two Golden’s were/are perfect weight for Golden’s. We feed 1 cup of dry dog food twice daily. Our breeder told us that would keep them at a healthy weight for life. It has.
Marcie says
Just found this post…We also have a wonderful Golden Boy!! 125 lbs…He will be 14 in June 2019..Also Hypothyroid…He has had chronic ear infections, terrible itching!! The vet could not cure these problems…I switched him to “natural foods,” available through stores…He went into congestive heart failure and Kidney failure…He was well taken care of and we couldn’t believe this was happening to him…The vet gave him less than a month to live. May of 2017…I told the vet I had nothing to loose and said I was going all natural with him…I found a website ..FiveLeaPetfBotanicals.com…VERY helpful…I put him on the kidney and heart formula in May of 2017…by January of 2018…the vet announced …No kidney failure!… I did everything the book said, that comes with the plan…A Major thing is cooking for your dog…he does not have ear infections AND NOOOOO itching…I made my own dog food…French toast…4 Aldies sprout bread, two egg whites, organic if possible and 1/2 cup of ORGANIC coconut milk…He has this twice a day..His heart is great…He does take a diretic and now a low dose of thyroid medication…He had A Lot of fat in his blood now none…HE is doing GRRReat…This company is very helpful with their chat option…Hunter is also on slippery elm for some digestive issues that he had later on…His hips are still good, but his hearing and eyesight are becoming poor. He lost 30 lbs. and is maintaing 94 lbs. He has low protein snacks now. Hunter could NOT loose weight and I felt like I was starving him…Now he is eating well and has lost weigt and I do not feel like I am starving him…I would be hard pressed to feed any dog any combination of dog food that you purchase…If I had not taken control of his health and what I fed him Hunter would not be with is today…Vets DO NOT know nutrician..I don’t care how many degrees they have…I was fortunate to have a vet that went along with my choices…Hope this helps…
Tracy Cummings says
We changed our Golden’s protein source to kangaroo (zingnaure brand) per vet suggestion and her chronic ear problems cleared up.
Chris says
For the ears, you might try Hills ZD which has hydrolized protein. This cleared up the yeast occurrences in our golden’s ears.
Is your dog’s bloodwork normal? Low thyroid can cause weight problems. If everything is normal, then you need to up the exercise& reduce food.
Good luck!
John Minihan says
We just lost our Golden, “Biscuit” at 12 years 9 months on December 19, 2018. She was the sweetest dog ever! I was unaware that Goldens used to live much longer or has an increased prevalence toward cancer. Biscuit had a tumor on her jaw that grew but wasn’t malignant. What eventually took her was kidney disease which made her sick and not wanting to eat or drink. It was so painful to watch her turn away from food she used to gobble up. But she was a trooper and a gift from God.
Angele says
My first Golden (Emma) lived only to 8.5 years old. She had brain cancer or strioke which caused her to suddenly lose function on her left side and have seizures.
Our second Golden (Cassidy) passed 6 days shy of his 9th bday. He had lymphoma and leukaemia. We tried a few chemo sessions but had to do the humane thing as the chemo was not helping.
Now we have Eddie (who will be 10 next month yet acts like a puppy other than his arthritis – which doesn’t slow him down now that it’s treated) and Murphy who is 6. Both have a great bill of health. I tend to walk on eggshells as I haven’t had a Golden make it to “double digits” as yet (Jan 21/19 Eddie will be 10)
A says
How did you treat his arthritis?
We have an almost 14 year old Golden and he limps on one front leg and has a hard time to lay down or to get up. Pain meds are only a temporary thing and if i give him a dose of Gabapentin he gets diarrhea… supplements don’t seems to make a big difference. If you could share please what helped yours i’d be happy to try it on ours. Zum h love from one dog lover to another!
Andrea
Anthony says
Use sashas blend. It works !
Janis King says
I give my golden 1 capsule of turmeric with black pepper. Must get the kind with the black pepper! This has helped my 13 year old golden a lot for her leg stiffness.
Debby says
My boy Jake will be 13 January 9th. Very healthy, very active.
Elizabeth Springall says
My 4th Goldie is now 12 She is happy and healthy…I dont thnk of her age as she doesnt seem old. She has always been fed a raw diet and never any preservatives of processed food. This was the diet she was on when she came to us as a rescue at 20 months. It has been great.
My first Goldie died aged 8 the vet diagnosed Lupus after many many tests. My second died aged 14 in poor health and wirth a skin complaint. I made the decision then I would always make a decision when they my future dogs got sick as I had delayed being responsible for selfish reasons. My third goldie died aged 14 after suffering seizures . She was so scared and disorientated that after her third seizure I made the decision and hugged and told her how loved she was as she passed. Goldies are magnificent dogs .
Shelly says
My sweet girl is 11.5 years old. She lost her vision (cataracts) a year ago and has become a lot less active since then. When she was less than a year old we had a lump removed under her ear that we never had tested for cancer. She has had a few more lumps appear over the last 6 years that have not seemed to bother her or slow her down. After losing her eyesight though she has started to show her age. We recently got a lab puppy who is now 6 months old. She loved playing with him the first few months but now just lays down all day and growls any time he comes near her. She must be tired and weak but still loves walks and attention from her humans.
Traci says
My golden turned 12 in Sept. As a pup he had 3 different personalities one different for each grandchild. In the past 2 months 2 unexpected trips to the vet. He has a almost white face now. Has some good days and bad. When he leaves us it will be hard to handle. He is truly my baby.
D says
My Golden Retriever is 15 years old Nov 2018. She’s a sweet old girl who walks like a drunk due to a bout of Vestibular Disease in 2016. She came from a small family breeder in Massachusetts. Her Dad an AKC Grand Champion. She’s prone to skin issues but is still going strong. She loves her food and tries to be involved in everything although sleep is her best friend these days. She’s a gentle giant at 90 pounds. Not a mean bone in her body. Her food is grain free. She can’t do stairs anymore or get into cars sadly. Car rides were always a favorite activity for her. I don’t question how much longer we have with her and I pray she goes comfortably in her sleep one day. I simply consider each day with her a gift. She seems to thrive on the attentions of the 4 other dogs she’s been raised with. Her bestie is my big boy Bichon who’s 15.8 years old. He is oblivious of his age and still does everything he always did. Running, jumping, and acting like a pup. His only deficit is vision that is fading. He takes care of his girl grooming her tenderly. I’ve truly been blessed by these little souls and all they give.
Jodi says
I got to experience the unconditional love, and brightness my golden retriever, Angus, brought to my Family and I for almost 9 years. My husband and I got him at exactly 8 weeks old. We had him to ourselves for 2 years and we then had our daughter Angus was a a very emotionally intelligent and attuned animal. His presence was calming and he was so gentle. Especially with children. Angus also an exceptionally handsome Golden very thick wavy golden fur with a big square head. I took My boy to the vet on October 29 because he had a slight limp which I assumed may be arthritis. Nothing major. Vet did an exam felt an enlarged spleen did a blood test. Called me the next day to tell me the Angus’s has acute lymphocytic anemia and has a week to live and we would neee tobdecide when to put him to sleep.bMy hsuband, 6 yr old and I were completely devastated. My daughter doesn’t know life without Angus. There was no viable treatment options. We used the week to say good bye. Of course the morning of Angus decided to eat and is able to have a short stop at the park then he was wagging his tail inside vet right till the end. I wanted to reechedule the appt but my husband reminded me that we were warned soMething traumatic like a bleed or seizure could happen. He could just die on the floor we didn’t want him to risk having to go through that experience as it would’ve scared Angus. So We gathered around our precious golden love and let him as he fell asleep on November 08. It was one of the hardest if not the hardest things if ever done. It has been a week now and my heart still aches for him. My house feels empty I see Angus everywhere arouud our home and the parks I took him to. Everyone says we did the thing for Angus as he didn’t suffer and they say the pain fades. But I’m really struggling and it isn’t fading. Angus was a truly exceptional dog and my best friend thank you for saving us my good boy. And thnk you for always being happy and always loving us back. You will never be forgotten.
Tim Charest says
Golden Retrievers are the purity and epitome of what love is supposed to be!
We adopted our Scooter almost 10 years ago from our elderly neighbor that could no longer care for him. He was welcomed into our home and the other dogs welcomed him into their pack. He showed everyone affection all of the time, with each person having something different that Scooter did just for/with them.
On November 5th we had to let him cross over the rainbow bridge to be with our lab Sandy that had passed a year before. Scooter was playing like normal the week before he passed. He had a bit of an upset stomach on Friday night, but Saturday morning he appeared fine. Ate normally Saturday evening but progressivly went down hill. He would be walking and stumble over, then the moaning started….I was up all night with him doing whatever I could to comfort, but he would pace aimlessly around the house and yard. I could tell he had a fever as his normally wet nose was warm and dry. Although he wanted water he couldn’t learn over to drink, and every time he did poor guy would stumble over. Knowing that it was dire, I rushed him to the emergency vet. Blood work..normal, parasite..negative, toxin screen….negative, x-ray.. nothing abnormal, ultrasound…normal. While we were there he had a series of seizures, no outward reason for it. Monitored him through Sunday morning, he seemed a bit better, fever had came down, they suggested I take him home and return if he exhibited any other strange behavior, and ofcourse follow up with our regular vet. Just a week before was his yearly checkup and everything was… normal. He was greeted at the door by his buddies, my 15 y/o lab Toby, and our 3 y/o Australian Shephard Sadie, all adopted by the way, as he was happy to be home. After a little nap, the moaning started again, and we witnessed several seizures so off to the Emergency vet we went. He had the worst seizure in my truck on the way back to the vet, and as I carried him in and put him into the exam table my thoughts were torn. They gave 2 rounds of phenobarbital over the course of the night, as it had to be neurological. With no call throughout the night we were hopeful for a good report. The vet told me that Scooter had not regained consciousness and there was not much response pupillary, pain, or stimulus. It had to be a brain tumor! They surmised it had to be in the hypothalamus region as it is what regulates temperature and could explain the uncharacteristic behavior. We made the heart wrenching decision, and I brought his buddies to see him at the vet. Toby, Scooter’s best Good friend, was licking his face as soon as he saw him. Granted, I had to put him up in a chair, as he is 15 and can’t get on his hind legs any longer. When we were ready the vet came in, and as she was administering the drugs, Toby was still licking his friend until the last breath which Scooter would take on this side was exhaled. Toby turned away and layed down exactly as he did when their girl, Sandy, our 15 y/o lab was put to rest a year earlier at our home.
When we took him to be cremated we told them what had happened and we suspected a brain tumor. The person operating the crematorium chamer itself said that tumors have a different smell to them. When he smelled it, he opened the window to see a tennis ball sized tumor at his head area. How ironic because Scooter, as does every Golden Retriever absolutely loved tennis balls. As we have went over different things looking back since last week, there were truly no signs until the last 2 days were had him here. Golden’s give all of their love every day, and I believe that they don’t want us to worry how bad off they are until it’s too late and they can’t control it. It is truly a Golden’s life mission to please their family, and please us they do, until the moment the rainbow bridge calls them home.
Elizabeth Springall says
This is exactly what happened to my beautiful Sophie. We too had to make the decision after her third seizure,.She was so scard and bewildered. Its a hard decision but we cannot let them be scared and in pain .
Maureen says
I’m so very sad we just lost our beloved golden, Jeter on Tuesday, Nov 6. He was only 9. He wasn’t eating for over a week and I took him to the vet and they were running tests and then he died the next day at home. My last one died at 9 also, of cancer. I love my Golden’s, but I can’t handle losing them so early. ??
Linda says
Maureen, I know the pain you are feeling. I put my lover boy to sleep on Christmas Eve! I’m still crying! Golden’s are a special breed and to experience their loving ways is something special.
Teresa says
My sweet Gracie turned 13 in September. Monday, November 5, my heart broke as I made the decision to let her go to sleep. She had severe arthritis in her spine and it rendered her unable to walk. I miss her loving companionship.
James says
My golden was just diagnosed with Blastomycosis. Vet gives him 50/50 chance of recovery. He is only six, my second golden after I lost my first to cancer at the age of 10. I’m not sure I can go through this yet again. I am so afraid for him and not can’t conceive my world without him. Please keep Coooer in your prayers for me.
Cathy says
My Golden is 11. She got sick yesterday with a high fever and swelling under her neck. She is home with antibiotics but goes Friday for another check. Praying she doesn’t have cancer. She is the best furbaby anyone could ask for. I love her more than life itself.
Jonna says
Our golden, Sandy, turns 13 this week. He started limping before the age of 7, with the cause eventually diagnosed as osteosarcoma. After amputation and chemo, he has been cancer-free! We are grateful that he has been with us so long after bone cancer.
Bhuvaneswari says
It is true. We realized that on 16th October 2018. My Benny passed away due to irresponsible veterinarians and our carelessness.
Valerie says
My sweet boy just died at age 14.5. Started aging rapidy in the last year. Found a Bleed behind the eyes after he had a stroke or siezure in my arms. I had to make the heavy decision to let him go. He was my best friend and my heart is broken. He was my shadow. Literally by my side from room to room for 14.5 years. I miss him so much i cant stop grieving. I want him back. No pet has ever or will ever be as wonderful as he was to me. My sweet boy.
Jim says
Valerie
My heart goes out to you.my own sweet boy wilf is lying across me now and i dred that awful day.But as my third Golden i know given time move on and love another and give him the best life you can.
Jim
Alex says
My sincerest aympathiy on your loss. We lost our golden on the 28th of October 2018. This was our second golden. Our first one crossed over at the age of 8. Our second was two months shy of 10. She crossed over in her sleep. We weren’t with her when she departed.
I know how you must be feeling as I am also feeling the loss of my best companion.
I am thankful for the joy, love, loyalty and companionship that our golden shared with us during her short stay.
Lisa says
My Golden retriever Has just turned 14 , she is showing signs of old age now . She is very slow on walks and her legs give way a lot . Will be a very sad day when it comes . She has given us all so much joy over the years ?❤️
Laura says
My 2nd to last Golden Alex died in 2004 at 17. We had to make the final decision when his back legs would no longer carry him. My last golden i had to have euthanized on Monday. He was diagnosed with lung cancer and due to age and health reasons he was not a candidate for surgery or treatment. He was 12 years, 11 months. I am bereft.
Jennifer says
I’m so sorry. I have a 3 year old Golden and he’s my sweet heart. I’m sorry for your loss.
Tammy Riggs says
My golden retriever is 13 years old and I pray we have for many more years to come. I can’t imagine our family without her ?
Rebecca says
My golden is 14.5 and still with a spring in her step! She was identified as having hip dysplasia when she was spayed as a puppy, so I’ve given her glucosamine and chondroitin all her life. Her weight was 52 at last checkup.
Pam says
My Golden is 15.5 and still goes on walks of 2 to 4 miles a day
His weight is 95 pds very big boy
Biljana says
My golden sweetheart is 11,5. years old. He is in good sbape and ery joyful
Jamie says
My sweet golden was diagnosed with Lymphoma at the age of 21 months. His cancer was very aggressive and non responsive to chemo. We lost him at 25 months of age in June 2018. I can’t even begin to describe the heartache of losing him.
Pippa Mattinson says
How terribly sad – very sorry for your loss Jamie
Crystal says
My golden retriever is 13 and still healthy. She is small though, 55 lbs and has always been at a good weight. I’m hoping she lives like they used to a decade ago!!
Deborah Cizmar says
My female golden just turned 13 August 20, her weight is good 52 pounds. Still playful. I hope I have her for awhile. I love her so much..
Terri L Slotta says
Hi Deborah,
Our baby girl Molly just turned 13 yesterday. She had been ours since she was 8 weeks old. She still like to play and cuddle. We are praying she will be with a few more birthdays.