Golden Retriever Lab Mix Reviewed
Also known as Goldador or Golden Labrador, the Golden Retriever Lab Mix is the product of breeding a purebred Golden Retriever with a purebred Labrador Retriever. Both parent dogs are widely popular around the world and are known for their excellence in service work, therapy, and hunting.
These dogs are prime choices for families. They were bred to keep the tolerance and physical strength of a Labrador while also keeping them happy and affectionate, the nature of the Golden Retriever. Some Goldadors serve as assistance or therapy dogs, some hunt or detect bombs, while some are solely loyal family companions. The hybrid dog is people-friendly and is for everyone of any age, as long as they get regular outdoor activities and are given much attention.
3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a Golden Retriever Lab Mix
Their Large Size Makes Living in an Apartment Difficult
The Labrador Retriever Golden Retriever Mix is considered a large breed, so living with them in a small apartment or condominium might be quite a challenge. This breed is energetic and hence having a fenced yard where he can do daily outdoor activities is convenient. You may also need a bigger bed in your house if you let them share your bed at night. Because of their affectionate nature, they might want to sleep beside you, and they’re more likely to take over your bed.
Needs Regular Exercise
Because they’re intelligent and active dogs, the Golden Retriever Lab Mix needs to exercise on a regular basis. They have a tendency to have a destructive behavior and be aggressive when they get bored or when left in solitude.
Not a Good Guard Dog
If you’re looking for a guard dog, the Lab Golden Retriever Mix is certainly not the choice for you. The Goldador is generally the loving type, not under the fighting category. It is the type of dog that loves every person he meets, and he would gladly show where his owner’s stuff is, especially if there’s a treat in exchange. This hybrid dog is so friendly that he might likely go home with anybody he meets. However, he can also do some work as hunting companions, guide and therapy dogs, and participate in bomb detection.
Note sure the Golden Lab is the perfect pup for you? Check out our full list of 30+ Golden Retriever mix breeds types.
Want to do a lot of research? Here are the Internets most in-depth puppy reviews on Golden Retriever mixes:
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3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Golden Retriever Mixed with Lab
Friendly and Affectionate Nature
The cross-breed between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever produces an offspring that is affectionate and loyal. They have a playful and happy nature that they’ll interact with anyone they meet. They are one of the best family dogs for children. The Golden Lab Retriever Mix can be a devoted family pet and can offer you years of companionship and unforgettable memories.
The Goldador is also good with other animals, especially if you raised them together. They are also alert enough, but not competent to be guard dogs.
Low Maintenance Grooming
The Golden Retriever Mix is a relatively low maintenance dog, so you don’t have to worry much on grooming problems. A good brush twice a week would suffice to remove loose hairs and to keep him in a fresh condition.
Easy to Train
Training a Goldador is easy because they’re intelligent and loves to be around people. It’s an easygoing dog that loves to please its owners. It is also very active so training this hybrid dog for advanced tricks would be a lot easier than with other dogs.
Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Golden Retriever Labrador Retriever Mix
| Weight | 60-80 pounds |
| Height | 22-24 inches |
| Size | Large |
| Coat Type | Dense, short or medium length |
| Coat Color | Golden, Black, Brown, White, Yellow, Cream |
| Amount of Shedding | Moderate |
| Eyes | Golden brown |
| Nose | Black |
| Ears | Medium length and floppy |
| Temperament | Loving, Affectionate, Intelligent, Cheerful, Loyal, Playful, Social, Friendly, Outgoing, Sweet |
Hybrid dogs vary typically more in size than purebreds, but the Golden Retriever Lab Mix often reaches 22-24 inches when measured from the front paws to the top shoulders while it is standing on its all four legs. A Goldador puppy will take after its parents in size, so once you adopt a puppy, you’ll get to estimate how big your Goldador will be by looking at its parents. A Golden Retriever crossed with a Labrador will have the typical sturdy and well-proportioned build of a Retriever. An adult Goldador will weigh between 60-80 pounds. Generally, females are smaller than males.
They also have short and thick double coats. They come in shades of yellow or gold with hints of red, but they can also inherit a black or brown coat color originating from their Labrador Retriever parent. They will shed moderately throughout the year and will require weekly brushing.
The Lab Golden Retriever Mix is a well-balanced dog, with well-proportioned head, medium length floppy ears, black nose, and a long tail.
When it comes to personality and temperament, the Golden Labrador is best described as a happy, affectionate and family-oriented dog. Goldadors are dedicated to their owners and family, and they will be very eager to please their owners. They are also active dogs and would be great exercise buddies as they are willing to participate in any activities, such as jogging or swimming.
The following dog organizations and dog breed registries recognize the Golden Retriever mixed with Labrador Retriever as a dog breed:
- American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC)
- Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC)
- International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR)
- Designer Breed Registry (DBR)
Golden Retriever Mixed with Labrador Puppies for Sale
When buying your Golden Lab Retriever Mix puppy, it’s crucial that you talk to a trusted dog breeder before purchasing one. You can try consulting at the Pet Professional Guild online on how you can find a trustworthy dog breeder in your area.
A responsible breeder will show you with proofs of health clearances for both parents of the Goldador. The puppy should be screened for any possible conditions it might have. Make sure you also ask the breeder if he used purebred dogs, to ensure that you’re adopting a Golden Retriever crossed with a Labrador Retriever.
Here are some online sites where you can browse for hundreds of dog breeds and look for places to buy an adorable Golden Retriever Lab Mix puppies:
- PuppyFind.com (International)
- NextDayPets.com (International
- Adopt-a-Pet.com (United States)
- American Kennel Club (United States)
- Petfinder.com (the United States and Canada)
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) strongly discourages buying puppies online. It’s best to visit the pet shop and meet the puppies in person.
Moreover, doing a little research ahead before you adopt a Golden Retriever Lab Mix puppy is essential. This is to make sure you know their basic needs, and you’ll be able to provide adequate care to your new pet companion.
Grooming Your Labrador Crossed with Golden Retriever
The Golden Lab Retriever Mix has a double-coat so it should be groomed regularly, especially during their shedding season.
The hybrid dog sheds moderately, so you don’t have to worry about it taking much of your time. You might need to brush them once or twice a week if they inherited the short coat of a Lab. However, if they got some of that long, waxy Golden Retriever fur, brushing them 3-4 times a week throughout the year is recommended.
During their shedding season, daily brushing must be done regardless of the hair length. You don’t have to worry about regular trimming as their hair won’t grow as long or be feathered like their Golden Retriever parent.
When it comes to bathing, your Golden Lab Mix should only be given a bath when needed, such as when its coat becomes too soiled or when he’s going to spend a heavy activity on a hot summer day. You can also try to do a swimming activity since this hybrid dog loves to a swim a lot.
More attention should be given to the ears when grooming because the Golden Lab Mix is much more prone to suffer from ear infections than other dogs. Their ears should be cleaned regularly and taken care of by a professional groomer.
Long nails should be trimmed to avoid problems concerning tearing or splitting if they are not worn down naturally.
Moreover, it is vital that your hybrid dog is receiving proper dental health care. Brush your dog’s teeth around 3-4 times a week. Don’t force them to open their mouth like you would give them a bell, but instead place the brush gently between their lips and teeth.
Labrador Mixed with Golden Retriever Health Problems
As mentioned earlier, a Golden Retriever crossed with Lab is infamous for having health issues just like its parent breeds. However, as living animals, it is still prone to get diseases if the dog’s health is not maintained in good condition.
While none of these are guaranteed to happen to your Golden Lab Mix, it’s wise to look out for them if you want your dog companion to be healthy and happy. Here’s a list of some of the common health issues seen in a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever:
- Hip Dysplasia: It is a heritable condition wherein the thighbone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint. Hip Dysplasia causes pain and often lead to arthritis. However, it can also remain unnoticed for some time. All dogs with hip dysplasia shouldn’t be bred, so make sure you ask the breeder to show you the parent dogs for proof of good health when you buy a Goldador puppy.
- Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable disorder where the three bones of the dog’s elbow grow at different proportions and at varying speed.
- Diabetes: This is a common condition in dogs but is manageable. Just like in humans, it is a metabolism disorder with classic symptoms of excessive thirst, weight loss, and increased urination. If left untreated, diabetes can result in a number of health issues in dogs.
- Diseases of the Eye: Your Golden Lab Mix may also acquire eye diseases such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Cataracts. PRA is an inherited familial eye disease caused by the deterioration of the retina. Cataracts, on the other hand, is characterized by cloudy eyes due to opacities on the lens when your dog reaches old age.
Labrador Golden Retriever Mix Food Requirements
Feeding plan will vary depending on your pet’s age, activity level, and metabolism. But generally, the Golden Retriever Lab Mix should eat between 3.5 – 4.5 cups of the best dry dog food daily, split into two equal meals. Make sure to include a bowl of clean water for your Goldador to stay hydrated and avoid feeding them the worst dry dog food around!
If you’re going to feed your Goldador with commercially manufactured foods, make sure to follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging. Keep in mind that there are dog foods that cater specifically to a dog’s age and energy levels.
Age plays a crucial role in choosing the right food. Whelps will have their nutritional needs met better with the best puppy food brands, while older dogs need nutrient ratios found in the best senior dry dog food.
Size should also be factored in when choosing the right kibble. The best dry dog food for small dogs is completely different than the best large breed dry dog food and you should take time to learn the difference.
Remember that by providing your companion dog with a proper diet plan and nutritional foods, you can actually help in lengthening his life. Food boosters can help your pooch strike the right balance of nutrients. Introducing Nutra Thrive dog food supplement may be a perfect choice if the dog is not getting vitamins and minerals they need.
Some of the brands we found to boast the highest quality of ingredients are:
Take note of the following food items that you should never feed to a Golden Retriever Lab Mix:
- Onions, chives, and garlic
- Poultry bones
- Salty foods
- Chocolate, coffee, or tea
- Yeast Dough
- Tomato leaves stem or unripe fruit
- Alcohol, beer, wine or liquor
- Grapes or raisins
Golden Retriever Crossed with Labrador Exercise Requirements
The Lab Golden Retriever Mix has an active temperament so they might get destructive if they get bored. It is recommended to exercise them at least 2 hours daily. Getting them to do physical activities every day will help keep him happy and healthy.
However, if you don’t have the time to do at least 2 hours of exercise daily with them, then hiring a dog walker might be convenient.
If you aren’t the walking type, there are other outdoor activities you can enjoy with your dog. Here are some outdoor activities that you can try with your Golden Retriever Lab Mix:
- Hiking: It is a great way to turn your daily walk more challenging and exciting for your dog.
- Swimming: Utilize your private pool and do a swimming exercise with your dog companion. Swimming does not only serve as an exercise activity to yourself and to your companion dog, but it is also a great bonding experience. It also provides relief from the heat during the summer months. Make sure you supervise your dog all the time while doing this activity.
- Dock Diving: This is a fun sports activity to enjoy with your dog. All you have to do is throw a floating toy and encourage your dog to jump and swim out to retrieve it. In this activity, a lakeshore or a safe, mini pool can work as well if you don’t have a nearby dock in your area. If you and your Golden Retriever Lab Mix want to upgrade the challenge, you can try joining a Dock Diving Club and compete with other dogs.
- Play Fetch: This is a classic outdoor game that is great to do in summer. Challenge your dog by putting a twist to the activity, you can either use a Frisbee or a tennis racquet to make the object travel farther for your Golden Labrador to retrieve and return back to you. However, you should not be working them too much because when it comes to recovering objects, both parent breeds of Golden Retriever Lab Mix can be overly enthusiastic.
Labrador crossed with Golden Retriever Training
The Golden Retriever Labrador Retriever Mix is one of the easiest dogs to train. However, even though they are intelligent dogs and has a friendly nature, you still need to put time and effort to train them better. It’s essential to note that training (obedience, agility, performing tasks) is a crucial way to exercise both their mind and body.
Here are four tips for training your Golden Retriever mixed with Lab:
Start Training Them Early
Training your Goldador while they’re still puppies is highly recommended. Both parent breeds were bred to carry things. The Golden Retriever Lab has a mouthing habit and may pick up anything that they’re not supposed to. It is important to break this habit as early as possible, so they’ll not put their mouth on people when they grow up and gain more strength.
All Retrievers act like watchdogs and has a tendency to bark at anyone, so you’ll need to train them not to especially if you don’t want to be a nuisance to your neighbors. The best way to teach your Goldador not to bark is to socialize them frequently with strangers. If you don’t socialize your hybrid puppy, it will grow into a socially awkward dog that gets scared and nervous easily around strangers.
Moreover, provide them with plenty of toys that they’re allowed to catch and pick, so they’re able to fulfill their desire of fetching things without going for your shoes or any possible object they can grab on.
Use Positive Reinforcement
The Labrador crossed with Golden Retriever is a sensitive type of dog, so training them using positive reinforcement will be very helpful. Make sure to avoid negative punishment-based training since this hybrid dog may end up fearing you rather than respecting you as their leader.
Make it a regular routine to reward your puppy whenever they do something right. Implement simple rules that they can follow and in return, give them praises and treats for obeying the rules, even when it’s something as simple as waiting to the side every time you open the door to go outside. Training your Goldador consistently in a positive method will give you pet companions that are obedient and good-natured.
Train in a Quiet Place
Engaging your hybrid dog in puppy classes might be a fun way to socialize them, but it’s probably not the best learning environment for your Golden Retriever Lab Mix. They are extremely friendly dogs and thus are easily distracted by anything, so it’s better to train them in a quiet place when learning new tricks.
Do Mental Exercise
The Golden Retriever mixed with Lab is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing any aggressive behaviors, such as nuisance barking and chewing. Without proper mental exercise, Goldador puppies will grow into a passive, timid and uninspired dog.
Labrador Golden Retriever Mix and Families
Despite its large size, the Labrador mixed with Golden Retriever is a great family dog because of its easy-going personality. It is extremely friendly and affectionate. You’ll see him greeting even strangers by wagging its tails or kissing anyone he meets. The Goldador is the type of dog that goes well in a loving and active family – one that considers him as a family member.
The Golden Labradors cherish the company with children. They are naturally gentle, but they can play tirelessly as long as your kids can keep up. However, due to their sheer size, supervision is still needed around toddlers and infants.
The Goldadors makes an excellent therapy and companion dog. Because of their affectionate nature, they generally do well when given lots of attention and affection. These hybrid dogs love to be with people, and hence it is tough for them to cope with solitude. So give love lots of love and affection to your Goldador Lab Retriever Mix, and expect that it will shower you back with love.
Best Dog Food for Golden Retriever Lab
Provide your Golden Retriever Lab mix with the nutrition they need by choosing a high-quality dog food that caters to their active lifestyle. Opt for a balanced formula rich in proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support their joint health and overall well-being. Here are the top recommendations for the best dog food to keep your Golden Retriever Lab mix happy and healthy.
- Essential, high-quality protein for healthy muscle development, and carbs for energy for an active life.
- Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
- Glucosamine is added for joint health and mobility support.
- Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants contribute to your pup's immune system health.
- No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.
- Made in the USA by a family-owned company using quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources.
- With real pasture-raised beef protein as the #1 ingredient, this recipe helps support bones, joints and lean, strong muscles.
- Beef protein provides energy and muscle building blocks, omega fatty acids promote skin and coat health and superfood fruits like blueberries and oranges offer vitamins and minerals.
- Each serving includes species-specific K9 strain proprietary probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system health and overall wellness.
- Made without corn, wheat, artificial flavors or colors.
- Protein-rich formula features chicken, lamb, and salmon—and chicken is the first ingredient!
- Contains a blend of 15 superfoods including coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries that promote coat and skin health.
- Recipe specially formulated for senior dogs using only high-quality, real ingredients to provide complete and balanced nutrition.
- Ingredients are sourced from trusted farmers and rigorously tested for quality and food safety.
- No artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, and chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, and soy protein free.
(FAQs) about Golden Retriever Lab Mix:
What is a Golden Retriever Lab Mix?
A Golden Retriever Lab Mix, often referred to as a “Golden Lab” or “Goldador,” is a crossbreed resulting from the mating of a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. This mix combines the traits of two popular and friendly breeds.
What is the size and appearance of Golden Retriever Lab Mixes?
Golden Retriever Lab Mixes are typically medium to large-sized dogs with a sturdy build. They often have a coat that is dense, water-resistant and comes in various colors, ranging from cream to chocolate.
What is the temperament of Golden Retriever Lab Mixes?
Golden Retriever Lab Mixes are known for their friendly, outgoing, and gentle nature. They are often sociable and intelligent and make excellent family pets due to their adaptability.
How much exercise do Golden Retriever Lab Mixes need?
These mixes are energetic and require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and engaging activities contribute to their overall well-being.
Are Golden Retriever Lab Mixes good with children and other pets?
Golden Retriever Lab Mixes are generally good with children and other pets, displaying a friendly and tolerant attitude. Early socialization is key to fostering positive interactions.
What is the grooming routine for Golden Retriever Lab Mixes?
Grooming requirements depend on the coat type inherited from both parent breeds. Regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons, and routine grooming tasks such as nail trimming and ear cleaning are essential.
Do Golden Retriever Lab Mixes have specific health concerns?
Golden Retriever Lab Mixes may inherit health issues from both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Common concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for preventive care.
How trainable are Golden Retriever Lab Mixes?
Golden Retriever Lab Mixes are highly trainable, given their intelligence and eagerness to please. They often excel in obedience training and enjoy tasks that challenge their mental abilities.
What is the lifespan of Golden Retriever Lab Mixes?
The average lifespan of Golden Retriever Lab Mixes is typically around 10 to 14 years, with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention.
What are some considerations for potential Golden Retriever Lab Mix owners?
Prospective owners should be prepared for an affectionate and loyal companion. Understanding the exercise needs, grooming requirements, and potential health issues of both parent breeds will contribute to a happy and healthy relationship with a Golden Retriever Lab Mix.
References:
- Holly, Vanessa L., et al. “Golden Retriever Cystic Uveal Disease: a Longitudinal Study of Iridociliary Cysts, Pigmentary Uveitis, and Pigmentary/Cystic Glaucoma over a Decade in Western Canada.” Veterinary Ophthalmology, vol. 19, no. 3, 29 June 2015, pp. 237–244., doi:10.1111/vop.12293.
- Heisler, Lora, and Lourdes Valencia-Torres. “Faculty of 1000 Evaluation for A Deletion in the Canine POMC Gene Is Associated with Weight and Appetite in Obesity-Prone Labrador Retriever Dogs.” F1000 – Post-Publication Peer Review of the Biomedical Literature, 3 May 2016, doi:10.3410/f.726342840.793520381.
- Walton, Joel, and Eve Adamson. Labrador Retrievers for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, 2007.
- Bauer, Nona Kilgore. Golden Retrievers for Dummies. Hungry Minds, 2000
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Retriever
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labrador_Retriever
