Are you interested in the new wave of popularity when it comes to Golden Retriever mix dogs? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We are crazy about the Golden Retriever mix and can’t wait to share 15 of our favorite hybrids with you.
But before we begin, let’s take a moment to learn about the dog that started it all – the Golden Retriever!
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Let’s Learn A Bit About The Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is the 3rd most popular dog in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club.
The Golden Retriever has long been considered one of the most coveted dogs in the United States. In fact, this beautiful purebred currently sits at number 3 out of 196 on the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular dog breeds.
A family-friendly, fun-loving, and incredibly intelligent canine, the Golden Retriever is the perfect match for active families with plenty of time to devote to training, exercise and socialization.
But the Golden Retriever is by no means a small dog, nor is he ideal for owners looking for a laid back four-legged friend. Take a look at his average height, weight, and other characteristics below.
Weight: 55 – 75 Pounds
Height: 21.5 – 24 Inches
Hypoallergenic: No
Lifespan: 10 – 12 Years
Temperament: Loyal, Affectionate, Friendly, Intelligent
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, juvenile cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, pigmentary uveitis, subvalvular aortic stenosis, ear infections, and dental disease
Alright, now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk more about the Golden Retriever mix. Keep reading!
Golden Retriever Mix Dogs – Understanding The Crossbreed Controversy
Crossbreed dogs are not mutts, nor are they purebreds.
It’s important to understand that the Golden Retriever mix is not a purebred, nor is he a mut. In fact, this dog is what is known as a designer dog, hybrid, mixed breed, or crossbreed.
Simply put, a Golden Retriever mix is a purposefully ‘designed’ dog. He is a combination between two specifically chosen purebred parent breeds in the hopes of combining the best traits of both.
While crossbreeding has been going on for centuries, it has recently exploded in popularity over the last twenty years. Like anything new, crossbreeding has been riddled with controversy.
Part of the issue is that crossbreed dogs are their own category of canine. Some people think these hybrids should be considered mutts, while enthusiasts of the practice insist crossbreeds are much more predictable.
But predictability can be difficult when it comes to genetics. First, second and third generation Golden Retriever mix dogs are more likely to have a variation of genetic traits from each parent breed, meaning that their appearance, health, temperament and more could be left up to chance.
That said, there are those that insist crossbreed dogs are likely to be healthier than purebred dogs, as they have a wider genepool and are therefore less likely to suffer from a range of genetic health issues due to overbreeding.
This does sound promising, but it has yet to be proven. So, while we wait and our favorite Golden Retriever mix dogs continue to be bred, we can only work on being the best dog owners possible.
And speaking of being the best owner, we will talk more about how to raise a happy and healthy Golden Retriever mix at the end of this article. For now, though, let’s take a look at 15 Golden Retriever mix dogs we can’t get enough of!
1. The Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are incredibly popular for their family-friendly, fun-loving nature.
A Cross Between: The Golden Retriever and The Poodle
Weight: 15 – 90 Pounds (Depending on the size of Poodle parent)
Height: 13 – 24 Inches (Depending on the size of the Poodle parent)
Temperamental Traits: Intelligent, athletic, outgoing, playful, devoted
Lifespan: 10 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: Potentially
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, subvalvular aortic stenosis, progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, cataracts, and Addison’s disease.
Let’s Learn More About The Goldendoodle:
The Goldendoodle is perhaps one of the most popular Golden Retriever mix dogs in the US. Sometimes bred to provide hypoallergenic service dogs to those in need, the Goldnedoodle also makes a fabulous family companion.
These highly intelligent, trainable, and active crossbreeds are ideal for families with a flexible schedule and those with children and other pets.
Goldendoodles can do well in larger apartments so long as their exercise needs are met. They will require a good walk or two each day and lots of playtime either in a backyard or at a dog park.
2. The Goberian
A Goberian is a stunning mix between a Golden Retriever and a Husky.
A Cross Between: The Golden Retriever and Siberian Husky
Weight: 45 – 90 Pounds
Height: 20 – 24 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Intelligent, devoted, outgoing, friendly
Lifespan: 10 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Heart problems, Von Willebrand’s Disease, bloat, epilepsy, and osteochondritis dissecans
Let’s Learn More About The Goberian
A cross between two athletic working breeds, the Goberian is a family-friendly dog best suited for active, outgoing households. He is not an ideal apartment dog and may not be the best fit for first-time dog owners.
This is a crossbreed who requires lots of exercise, time, attention, training and socialization to grow up happy and healthy. That said, he gets on well with children and other pets and knows no strangers.
3. The Gollie
Gollie dogs are incredibly smart and active.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The Border Collie
Weight: 50 – 75 Pounds
Height: 22 – 26 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Highly intelligent, active, strong work-ethic, friendly
Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, epilepsy, and ear infections
Let’s Learn More About The Gollie
If you’re looking for one of the smartest dogs on this list, you’ve found it in the Gollie. This designer dog is a mix between the hard-working Border Collie and clever Golden Retriever, so owners who have experience with working dogs will love this mix.
However, inexperienced dog lovers may find their Gollie is able to outwit them, and could find themselves frustrated with the level of care, time and commitment this crossbreed needs to keep destructive behaviors, depression and anxiety at bay.
4. The Golden Boxer
The Golden Boxer makes a sweet and loving companion for the right owner.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and the Boxer
Weight: 50 – 110 Pounds
Height: 23 – 15 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Intelligent, playful, eager to please
Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Bloat, allergies, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, heart issues, and hypothyroidism
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Boxer
Boxers are known for their boundless energy and adorable nature. Combine that with a Golden Retriever and you have a totally adorable and family-friendly hybrid. We love the Golden Boxer for his infectious temperament, but are also smitten with his unique look.
Best suited for active families with flexible schedules, Golden Boxer dogs will get along well with children and other pets, and will enjoy houses with large backyards where they can run and play freely after routine walks.
5. The Golden Rottie
We love that Golden Rotties are a combination of two intelligent and loyal service dogs.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and the Rottweiler
Weight: 70 – 90 Pounds
Height: 24 – 28 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Smart, energetic, friendly, playful
Lifespan: 10 – 12 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, retinal dysplasia, and subaortic stenosis
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Rottie
The Golden Rottie is not only highly intelligent, but also incredibly active. A combination between two famous service dogs, this Golden Retriever Mix is best suited for experienced dog owners who are looking for a clever, affectionate companion.
Golden Rottie dogs need lots of time and attention, as well as plenty of socialization and training to grow up happy, healthy and well rounded.
6. The Goldador
A mix of two intelligent and playful breeds, the Goldador is the ideal family dog.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever
Weight: 60 – 80 Pounds
Height: 22 – 24 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Smart, outgoing, friendly, playful
Lifespan: 10 – 12 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, diabetes, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and bloat.
Let’s Learn More About The Goldador
If you’re having trouble choosing between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever, why not choose a Goldador? This Golden Retriever mix is the best of both worlds and combines two similar yet different working dogs.
Goldador hybrids make excellent dogs for children and get along well with other pets. They are active, outgoing, friendly and playful, and are great for first time dog owners with an outdoorsy lifestyle.
7. The Golden Shepherd
Golden Shepherd dogs require lots of training and socialization, as well as plenty of exercise.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The German Shepherd
Weight: 55 – 85 Pounds
Height: 20 – 26 Inches Inches
Temperamental Traits: Intelligent, devoted, focused, affectionate
Lifespan: 10 -14 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, and bloat
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Shepherd:
A beautiful and highly intelligent combination, the Golden Shepherd is a clever, hard-working mixed breed who is best suited for experienced dog owners. This is a crossbreed who, like many of the Golden Retriever mix dogs on this list, will get along well with children and other pets so long as he is properly trained and socialized.
However, we do not recommend a Golden Shepherd for those with very busy schedules. This is a dog who is very devoted and needs lots of time and attention from their owners. They are also best suited for homes with a backyard where they can run and play freely after routine walks.
8. The Golden Newfie
If you want a more go-with-the-flow mix, check out the Golden Newfie.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The Newfoundland
Weight: 100 – 150 Pounds
Height: 20 – 14 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Intelligent, easy-going, affectionate
Lifespan: 8 – 12 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, bloat, and degenerative heart issues
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Newfie
Newfoundland dogs may be large, but they are not as active as you think. If you’d like a Golden Retriever mix who is a little more low key, you may want to take a look at the Golden Newfie.
This sweet, loyal, and intelligent crossbreed is great for first time dog owners who want a dog that is loving and clever. He will do well with children and other pets, and will enjoy routine walks every day.
9. The Golden Sheltie
The Golden Sheltie might have some herding instincts, but he is highly trainable.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The Shetland Sheepdog
Weight: 25 – 55 Pounds
Height: 13 – 20 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Intelligent, spirited, affectionate, and active
Lifespan: 11 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, cataracts, ear infections, and allergies
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Sheltie
Shetland Sheepdogs are clever herding dogs, so combine this breed with a Golden Retriever and you have intelligence and beauty to boot! Highly clever and energetic, the Golden Sheltie is a great dog for owners who understand working breeds and are willing to devote the time and attention it takes to raise one of these brainy pups.
When properly trained and socialized, the Golden Sheltie can get along well with children and other pets, though he may have herding instincts.
10. The English Goldstiff
The English Goldstiff is one of the larger dogs on this list.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The English Mastiff
Weight: 55 – 75 Pounds
Height: 21 -24 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Smart, loyal, affectionate
Lifespan: 10 – 12 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, heart issues, Bloat, epilepsy, kidney issues, cancers, skin allergies, and ear infections
Let’s Learn More About The English Goldstiff
Once used as ancient war dogs, the English Mastiff of today is a sweet, slow-moving companion dog regaled for his incredible size. Mixed with the Golden Retriever, the English Goldstiff makes for a sweet and devoted companion to the right owner.
This is a dog who will need plenty of love, attention, training and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy, as well as routine exercise every day.
11. The Golden Aussie
The Golden Aussie is beloved for his incredible intelligence.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The Australian Shepherd
Weight: 40 – 65 Pounds
Height: 19 – 24 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Highly intelligent, athletic, outgoing, friendly
Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, eye issues, and bloat
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Aussie:
The Golden Aussie is certainly a head-turner. This beautiful hybrid is incredibly brainy and highly energetic, and is one of our more independent Golden Retriever mix dogs on this list. He will be best suited for active families and experienced dog owners, and will appreciate routine exercise each and every day along with a yard where he can play and run.
Friendly with people and other pets, the Golden Aussie could have some herding instincts that will need to be managed, though training this clever dog can be a thrill for the right owner.
12. The Golden Corgi
There is almost no dog as unique as a Golden Corgi mix.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and the Corgi
Weight: 30 – 75 Pounds
Height: 10 – 18 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Smart, affectionate, playful
Lifespan: 10 – 12 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, heat intolerance, allergies, cataracts, and ear infections
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Corgi:
We love the unique look of the Golden Corgi, but it’s nothing compared to this adorable cross breed’s personality. Friendly, affectionate and devoted, the Golden Corgi makes a wonderful family companion for owners looking for a more compact Golden Retriever mix.
A mix between two very intelligent working dogs, the Golden Corgi will require lots of training, exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy, healthy and well-rounded.
13. The Goldmaraner
The appearance of your goldmaraner could vary.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The Weimaraner
Weight: 55 – 75 Pounds
Height: 18 – 27 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Playful, devoted, clever, friendly
Lifespan: 10 – 12 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cancers, bloat, tricuspid valve dysplasia, allergies and ear infection
Let’s Learn More About The Goldmaraner
We are obsessed with the beauty of the Goldmaraner and can’t get over this dog’s incredible demeanor. Though this may not be the most well-known Golden Retriever mix on our list, he is certainly one of the most unique.
This hybrid is a combination between two clever, active working dogs and will do best in homes with large yards. He is also an ideal dog for experienced dog owners who have time to devote to training, exercise and socialization.
14. The Golden Pitbull
Golden Pitbulls are sweet, loyal and active.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and Pitbull
Weight: 50 – 75 Pounds
Height: 17 – 24 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Devoted, intelligent, energetic, affectionate
Lifespan: 10 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cancer, allergies, bloat, and ear infection
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Pitbull:
Pitbulls have gotten a bad rep over the past few decades, but the more we learn about this devoted and intelligent dog the more we love them. Combine their devoted, loving nature with the intelligence and friendliness of a Golden Retriever and you have a hybrid made in doggy heaven.
Because of his loyalty, Golden Pitbull dogs are eager to please and easy to train. They should be socialized at an early age and exercised each and every day to keep them happy and healthy.
15. The Golden Irish
The Golden Irish is a combination of beauty and brains.
A Cross Between: Golden Retriever and The Irish Setter
Weight: 55 – 80 Pounds
Height: 21 – 28 Inches
Temperamental Traits: Affectionate, friendly, intuitive and intelligent
Lifespan: 10 – 15 Years
Hypoallergenic: No
Common Health Issues: Hypothyroidism, OCD, CD, eye issues, epilepsy, CAD, Bloat, heart issues, cancer, Von Willebrand’s disease hip and elbow dysplasia, and allergies
Let’s Learn More About The Golden Irish:
Last on our list we have the Golden Irish. This is a Golden Retriever mix who is a combination of intelligence, beauty, athleticism and love. Ideal for experienced dog owners who live an active lifestyle, the Golden Irish requires plenty of exercise, training and affection.
This is a sweet natured hybrid who will enjoy children and other pets to play with, but will not do well left to his own devices for too long. Without the proper physical and mental stimulation, a Golden Irish can become depressed, anxious, and even destructive.
How To Raise A Happy, Healthy Golden Retriever Mix
All dogs need plenty of time, attention, training, and socialization to grow up happy and healthy.
Being a dog parent comes with a lot of responsibility. Raising a Golden Retriever mix will take time, patience, commitment and lots of love. Regardless of the Golden Retriever mix above you choose, it’s important to make sure you are able to commit to this intelligent, affectionate hybrid.
Socialization
All dogs need to be properly socialized in order to grow up happy, healthy and well-rounded. A properly socialized Golden Retriever mix will be much less likely to develop anxiety that could lead to serious behavioral issues.
To properly socialize your Golden Retriever mix, it’s best to introduce him to as many new sights, sounds, people, places, things, and experiences as possible at an early age. Try and ensure these first impressions are positive for him, and refrain from forcing your Golden Retriever mix into a situation that is clearly frightening for him.
Training
Just as with socialization, a Golden Retriever mix dog requires consistent training throughout his life to stay happy and healthy. Training is especially important for intelligent dogs like the Golden Retriever mix, who will need help keeping their clever minds active to reduce behavioral issues, stress and depression.
When training your Golden Retriever mix, avoid punishment and scolding and stick with positive reinforcement techniques like lots of treats and praise. Keep sessions short, repetitive, and game-like to help keep your Golden Retriever mix engaged.
Exercise
Exercise is incredibly important for a Golden Retriever mix. These hybrids are going to be active and outgoing, and they will do best with a good walk at least once or twice a day. Along with proper exercise, they will also enjoy having a backyard to run and play in to burn off excess steam.
Diet
All dogs require a healthy diet, and your Golden Retriever mix is no exception. A dog food specified for large breed dogs will help him grow up happy and healthy. Make sure his dog food is rich in real animal protein, vitamins, minerals, healthy carbohydrates, fatty acids and water.
Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, additives, by-products, artificial flavors or ingredients, corn, soy and wheat.
Grooming
Maintain proper grooming with your Golden Retriever mix to ensure he stays healthy. Clean his ears often to keep them free of debris, waxy buildup and moisture that could lead to ear infection. It’s also important to clip his nails regularly, and keep his coat brushed and mat-free.
Vet Visits
Last but not least, try and keep up with routine vet visits. Keeping your dog healthy and staying on top of any potential health issues could not only prolong and improve the quality of your Golden Retriever mix dog’s life, but it could also save you money in the long run.
Tips On Choosing The Healthiest Golden Retriever Mixes Possible
Make sure you get your puppy or rescue Golden Retriever mix through a reputable source.
Did you know that raising a healthy and happy Golden Retriever mix begins before you even get your dog? That’s right! You can help ensure you and your Golden Retriever mix start off on the right foot by making sure you get him from a reputable source.
When going through a breeder, we suggest asking questions and doing plenty of research. Make sure you avoid backyard breeders, unqualified online sellers, or those promising a Golden Retriever mix puppy at a discounted price without certification.
Instead, stick with reputable breeders who have references and who are able to provide you with a health certificate proving your Golden Retriever mix puppy has been cleared of any major health issues.
The price of your Golden Retriever mix puppy will vary depending on the breeder, the quality of the parent dogs, and the type of mix your hybrid is.
However, you also have the option of adopting a Golden Retriever mix dog from a rescue or shelter. There are plenty of shelters throughout the US who specialize in Golden Retriever mix hybrids, so it shouldn’t be too difficult for you to find the dog of your dreams with a bit of research.
Rescuing a dog has a number of benefits, and one of those is price. In fact, adopting a dog is generally a fraction of the cost of buying one from a breeder. Best of all, you are offering a dog in need a loving home and freeing up space in the shelter for more dogs to get care.
Whichever route you choose to take when getting a Golden Retriever mix, just remember to take time, be patient, and do plenty of research.
So, now that we’ve covered our favorite Golden Retriever mix dogs, we want to hear from you. Do you have other Golden Retriever mix hybrids we should know about that weren’t on our list above? Tell us about them in the comment section below.
Thanks for reading!
Jen Jones is a professional dog trainer and behavior specialist with more than 25 years of experience. As the founder of ‘Your Dog Advisor’ and the ‘Canine Connection’ rehabilitation center, she applies a holistic, empathetic approach, aiming to address root causes rather than merely treating symptoms.
Well known for her intuitive and compassionate approach, Jen adopts scientifically-proven, reward-based methods, encouraging positive reinforcement over punishment. Jen specializes in obedience training, behavior modification, and puppy socialization. Her innovative methods, particularly in addressing anxiety and aggression issues, have been widely recognized. Jen has worked with many of the world’s leading dog behaviorists and in her free time volunteers with local animal shelters and rescue groups.