Meet the Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix

The Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix combines two very popular breeds. In fact, the German Shepherd is the second most popular dog according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) while the Golden Retriever is third.

Both breeds are smart, athletic and devoted dogs that make great pets and are popular for a reason. There are also very distinct differences, however, that should be noted when examining the Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix

With all cross mixes, there is no way to tell the exact proportions and traits they’ll pick up from their parents. But we have a solid idea of what you can expect with the Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix.

Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix

When you walk into a room full of dogs, the Golden Retriever and the German Shepherd are two of the easiest to spot for most people. And when you combine these two breeds together, you have a pet that welcomes you when you come home, is intelligent and eager to please, and offers protection while also being a loving animal.

If you’re thinking about bringing a Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix into your home, here are a few things to consider so that you’re prepared for all of the kisses, tail wags and playing, along with a few health issues that you should know about as the dog gets older.

Appearance

Since both breeds are of a larger size, your Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix will likely be a big dog. Most German Shepherds weigh about 70 pounds with the Retriever weighing in at about 70 as well. Both dogs stand close to 24 inches tall.

Be ready for a hefty pet, especially if you’ll have to move your furry friend from your bed to the floor at night if he wants to sleep with you!

If you’ve paid attention to a German Shepherd, then you’ve likely noticed that the ears are pointed and that most of them are brown and black in color. However, there are other colors that can be intertwined as well including silver and white.

The coat of a German Shepherd isn’t too unruly and can easily be tamed if it gets out of hand. They do have bushy tails, however.

The Golden Retriever has longer hair and is strictly golden in color with various shades of gold depending on the exact trait passed down from its parents. This means that your dog might have the characteristics of a Shepherd with the color of a Retriever or the other way around.

Take a look at the parents of your dog so that you can get a better idea of the features and colors that are prominent as there are several combinations that could result in appearance.

Personality

The temperament and personality of your dog will depend on a lot of factors. It’s important to train your dog in the way that you want it to act while inside your home and outside because there are sometimes two different personalities that can be seen depending on the task that you ask of your dog.

A German Shepherd is a herder. It’s protective and very loyal. The breed is also very intelligent and can sense what it’s supposed to do before being told.

The Golden Retriever, although a loyal and intelligent breed as well, isn’t as protective. It’s more of an easygoing dog that loves being around people.

Sometimes, a German Shepherd can display guarding traits that would mean your pet is overly protective. This is an issue that can be handled with proper training.

Overall, your Golden Retriever and German Shepherd mix will be clever while offering love and support that many owners desire from a dog.

Health

Hip dysplasia and arthritis are common health concerns for both the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. They enjoy being active, which can have an impact on the bones and joints of the hips and the legs. Allergies also seem to be a problem for both breeds.

Grooming

The German Shepherd has a waterproof coat. However, because of the double layers, it’s a dog known for shedding.

The Golden Retriever also has a thick coat of hair. This means that you’ll probably be cleaning your furniture and floors because your dog is shedding all the time.

Golden Retrievers are known for their hair getting matted together. If your mixed dog has this feature, then you should consider going to a groomer at least once a month to have your dog’s hair trimmed and brushed. While at home, use a brush that can reach the bottom layers of hair to keep the coat shiny, healthy and free of tangles.

Check the nails of your dog on a regular basis because they can get long very quickly. Also examine the ears for wax since the pockets of the ears of both breeds are deeper and can accumulate wax in a short time.

Training & Exercise Needs

Your dog will need adequate exercise regardless of whether it gets traits from one parent or the other. Both dogs are quite active and enjoy running around.

Keep the activity level a bit lower, however, if you notice more German Shepherd qualities because of some of the hip issues that the breed can develop later in life. Start slowly with building stamina so that your dog can build the muscles that are needed for playing and walking.

Once your dog is older, you should continue light exercises so that it doesn’t get bored as it could decide to use your favorite shoe as a chew toy. Both breeds enjoy mental stimulation. Try to use a few different puzzles when training and playing.

The Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix enjoys positive reinforcements compared to negative words and actions. Treats are good to use with both breeds, but don’t rely on treats all the time to train your dog since they have a high level of intelligence.

This mix also needs companionship and has a strong desire to love others. This means that a Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix might not be a good option if no one will be home for extended periods of time during the day or if you frequently go out of town and have to leave your dogs behind for a short time without quality interaction with people.

Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix: Is It Right For You?

With the Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix, you get the best of both worlds: Incredibly popular dog breeds but with the twist that they’re combined together to create a totally unique canine.

Keep in mind that this dog is no small fry. On average, expect it to weigh at least 70 pounds. You should be sure you have the room for a dog of this size and preferably a yard for it to play in.

The Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix is both smart and loyal, which is an excellent combination. It can be a bit needy, however, so be sure you have the time and energy to commit to this dog before bringing it into your home.

Ultimately, the Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix is an incredibly sweet and intelligent dog that would make a great addition to the right family.

You might also be interested in these mixes:

• German Shepherd & Australian Shepherd Mix
• Australian Shepherd & Lab Mix
• German Shepherd & Husky Mix
• Australian Shepherd & Golden Retriever Mix
• Golden Retriever & Husky Mix

Jessi Larson

Jessi is a marketing strategist for Fortune 50 companies who loves to research and write about all things dog. She is the proud mom to Toby, a giant Labrador Retriever who thinks he’s a lapdog. He inspires her to be a better pet parent and to share advice with other dog owners.