Goldador

The Goldador blends the Golden Retriever’s sweetness with the Labrador’s biddability—an affectionate, athletic family companion and popular service-dog hybrid in Canada.

Breed Group
Hybrid
Activity Level
High
Size Category
Large
Coat Type
Double Coat
Coat Texture
Dense
Activity Level
High
Trainability
Very High
Shedding Level
High
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
With Caveats
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Designer

Breed History

Bred intentionally since the late 20th century, the Goldador pairs two beloved retrievers to produce a stable temperament, strong work ethic, and reliable trainability. They’re commonly selected for service, therapy, and detection work.

Physical Characteristics

Goldadors are sturdy, medium–large retriever mixes with balanced features.

  • Weight: 55–80 lb
  • Height: 21–24 in
  • Coat type: Short–medium double coat
  • Coat colors: Golden, yellow, cream, black
  • Distinctive traits: Broad head, strong chest, gentle expression

Grooming

Expect seasonal shedding; routine care keeps coats healthy.

  • Brushing 2–3× weekly (daily during heavy shed)
  • Bathing every 6–8 weeks or after swimming
  • Occasional professional deshedding recommended
  • Regular ear checks, nail trims, and dental care

Exercise Needs

High-energy retriever mix that needs robust, daily activity.

  • Daily exercise: 60–90+ minutes
  • Activities: hiking, swimming, fetch, jogs
  • Best for active homes with access to outdoor spaces

Training Tips

Goldadors are people-pleasers—make training rewarding and consistent.

  • Trainability: Very high; suitable for first-time owners
  • Focus on recall, loose-leash walking, and impulse control
  • Use positive reinforcement; keep sessions engaging
  • Early socialization builds calm, confident manners

Nutrition & Diet

Feed a large-breed formula to support joints and maintain ideal weight.

  • Food type: premium kibble or balanced fresh diet
  • Quantity: ~3–4 cups/day split into two meals
  • Schedule: twice daily
  • Considerations: watch calories; retrievers can overeat

Adoption & Breeders

Source ethically; prioritize health screening and transparency.

  • Breeders: request OFA hips/elbows and eye clearances for both parents
  • Adoption: check Golden/Lab rescues and local shelters in Canada
  • Avoid sellers without verifiable health testing or contracts

Health Concerns

May inherit orthopedic and ocular conditions common to retrievers.

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Eye disorders (PRA, cataracts)
  • Obesity; some lines prone to cancer
  • Average lifespan: 10–14 years

Frequent Asked Questions

Are Goldadors good with kids? Yes—gentle, patient, and playful.

Do Goldadors shed? Yes—moderate to heavy, especially seasonally.

Are Goldadors easy to train? Very; they’re eager to please and food-motivated.

How big do Goldadors get? Typically 55–80 lb and 21–24 inches tall.

Do Goldadors make good service dogs? Yes—widely used for service and therapy work.

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