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Golden Retriever Price – Everything You Need to Know

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Affable and affectionate, the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dogs in the world. For many, the Golden Retriever price is well worth it considering what great pets they make.

But exactly how much does a Golden Retriever cost?

Golden Retriever Price

That answer can vary, of course, but if we examine the initial Golden Retriever price plus the cost of vet care, food, supplies and more. Let’s dig in!

The Initial Golden Retriever Price

The Golden Retriever price varies greatly, perhaps more than any other breed. On average, you can expect to pay between $500-$4,000.

At the lower end of the price spectrum may be dogs from a home breeder without AKC documentation.

According to Next Day Pets, the median price for Golden Retrievers is $1,135. This price will likely increase in the near future given the popularity of the breed.

Dogs with champion bloodlines and/or special characteristics like a smaller size can run from $2,500-$9,000.

While this cost is more upfront, keep in mind that the pedigree of these pups may mean less health issues – and fewer vet bills – down the road.

And if a dog has champion bloodlines, that will cost even more.

Of course, you can always adopt a Golden Retriever for much less. Pet adoption usually ranges from $350-$550 and includes registrations and vaccinations.

You’re providing a home for a dog in need and saving money in the process, so it’s certainly a win-win.

Golden Retriever puppy

The Cost of Feeding a Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are active, larger dogs that love their food. You can say they’re part of the “clean plate club” because they most likely won’t leave a crumb to spare.

Given the Golden’s affinity for food, you should definitely take note of how much this will cost you before bringing a dog home.

As with any dog, it is recommended that you serve them high-quality food. Here’s how to tell if you’re buying the good stuff.

How much a Golden Retriever eats depends on their gender, size and activity level. It generally ranges anywhere from 2 1/2 cups to 4 1/2 cups per day for an adult. Check with your vet to determine your dog’s specific need.

On average, quality dog food is about $2-$3 per pound. Say you get a 30-pound bag for $55. That’s approximately 120 cups of dog food. If an adult Golden eats say 3 cups per day, that means the 30-pound bag would provide 40 days of food. So that’s about a 30-pound bag for a little over a month at $55 each.

And you can’t forget about treats. Giving a Golden a treat is great for training and for rewarding good behavior. Expect to budget an extra $10 a month for this.

Cute dog

How Much Are Vet Expenses?

Overall, the Golden Retriever is a healthy breed. This is an important thing to consider if you’re taking into account the full Golden Retriever price. After all, vet bills aren’t cheap.

If your dog isn’t spayed or neutered, you should definitely do that right away, unless you have plans for breeding. This costs anywhere from $250-$500.

The most common health issue for the Golden is cancer, according to the Golden Retriever Club of America. Other issues may include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and heart disease.

According to Embrace Pet Insurance, the most common serious issues for the Golden Retriever and the cost to treat them are:

  • Cancer – $8,000-$15,000
  • Hip Dysplasia – $1,500-$6,000
  • Entropion – $300-$1,500
  • Cataracts – $1,500-$5,000
  • Ichthyosis – $200-$1,000

Overall, however, for the average, healthy Golden Retriever in a normal year you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars for regular check-ups and occasional issues.

What does a Golden Retriever cost?

Golden Retriever Price and Other Costs

In addition to the initial fee plus food and vet expenses, there are many other costs to consider when looking at the Golden Retriever price.

To start, we recommend enrolling in obedience training as soon as possible. Fortunately, the Golden Retriever is one of the most trainable breeds in the world and will learn in no time.

On average, group lessons range from $50 to $125 for four to eight weeks of one-hour sessions. The initial investment upfront will result in a well-mannered pet.

Then there’s the cost of supplies. To start, dogs need a collar, leash, some toys, water and food bowls, a brush and a bed.

To help new dog owners, we’ve compiled a shopping list that notes everything you’ll need for your new bundle of fur.

See the new dog shopping list

Your first temptation might be to run to the pet store and buy everything in sight for your new furbaby, but for the sake of your pocketbook, resist the temptation.

In reality, your dog doesn’t need a million new toys, collars for every day of the week or the fanciest dog bed you can find. Buy the basics at first, and then you’ll slowly find out what your dog likes and needs.

In a survey, the American Pet Products Association found that it costs $1,641 per year on average  to take care of a dog, between veterinary care, food, treats, boarding, grooming, vitamins and toys.

If you can afford the initial Golden Retriever price plus the ongoing expenses, why not welcome this sweet, spirited animal into your home?

Why Should You Get a Golden Retriever?

Eager to please and easy to train, the Golden Retriever makes an excellent pet for any home. They are cheerful, loyal and well-tempered, so it’s no surprise that they are often selected to serve as a service dog.

The breed got its start as a hunting dog given its aptitude for retrieving. Today they are still used for hunting, but more often than not, they are simply family pets – and that’s more than OK.

And we can’t forget about their adorable face and gorgeous long locks. Golden Retrievers are adorable dogs with a heart of gold. Who wouldn’t want one in their life?

If you need more convincing, just check out the video below.

Golden Retriever Names

Does the Golden Retriever price work with your budget? If you said yes, you’re going to need a name.

The good news is that we have tons of ideas!

You can start your search by exploring our guide to Golden Retriever names. The list was created specifically for this friendly and furry breed.

Also, try out our online name generator and find even more options. You can sort by your favorite styles and themes.

Easy Tips For Raising a Puppy

Is this your first dog? Or do you need a refresher on how to raise a puppy? Check out our free puppy guide!

You’ll learn all you need to know about getting a new puppy and feel confident about connecting with your new canine.

The puppy guide covers:

1. Deciding to get a new dog

We’ll explore the important questions you need to ask yourself before committing to a new dog. In the end, you’ll walk away with a clear idea of whether you’re ready or not for a pup.

2. Choosing a dog breed

One of the most important first steps is getting a dog breed that’s right for you and your current living situation. Even though you’re leaning toward a Golden Retriever, it’s a good idea to cover all the bases.

3. New puppy checklist

Once you decide on a dog, do you have everything you need before bringing them home? You’ll find out with this new puppy checklist.

4. Bringing puppy home

Speaking of bringing a puppy home, one of the first experiences your dog will share with you is the car ride home. It can be scary, so we’ll share tips and tricks on how to make it the best experience possible.

5. What to feed a puppy

Once your puppy is at home with you, it’ll be hungry. Find out everything you need to know about feeding your new puppy.

6. Puppy care tips

Find out how to take the absolute best care of your dog. We’ll cover everything from vet appointments to grooming to medications and so much more.

7. Puppy training and socialization

And last but not least is the important topic of training socialization. After all, you want your dog to be well trained and to get along well with humans and other pets.

Check out more articles about: Dog Breeds

6 Comments

  1. Cyril john Collier

    I’m trying to get golden retriever the have it trained as a hearing dog for me at the grange. But I need the money to kick start. Sadly difficult. But I’m lost in a world of Deaf people and need help.

    CJ Collier

  2. rachel frampton

    I’ve been wanting to purchase an English golden retriever for my child because he’s been asking for it ever since last year. I’m glad you shared this; once we bought one already, we’ll make sure to enroll it in an obedience training program. Luckily, this type of breed is eager to please and easy to train as mentioned here.

  3. Sheena Arnold

    Hi Rachel. Have you found a golden retriever yet to be your hearing dog?

  4. Sheena Arnold

    Sorry, ment Cyril.

  5. edward m sarro

    Its very difficult weeding through all the fraudsters out there on craigslist praying on those, searching for puppy’s. Text only is a giveaway,

  6. Selva Gowrinathan

    I might need some guidance on buying/adopting my first pet. Kindly let me know where I can browse puppies with good health record

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