Goldendales are large, powerfully built dogs with a thick, often fluffy double coat that can range in color from cream to white, sometimes with golden hues.

Large to Giant

Typically 75-120 pounds, depending on parentage.

24-32 inches at the shoulder.

Double coat; dense, weather-resistant, and may be slightly wavy.

Predominantly white or cream, sometimes with golden or light brown markings.

Broad, with a well-defined stop and a friendly expression.

Dark brown, almond-shaped, conveying gentleness.

Medium-sized, triangular, and set high, typically flopping close to the head.

Long, bushy, and carried low, often with a slight curve.

Goldendales are known for their gentle, patient, and loyal nature, displaying a calm demeanor combined with a friendly and affectionate disposition.

Form strong bonds with their families and enjoy close interaction.

Known for their gentle nature, especially with children.

Deeply devoted to their owners, often displaying protective instincts.

Generally tolerant and patient, making them good companions for families.

Smart and capable of learning, though sometimes independent-minded.

Tend to be calm and composed, especially indoors.

While friendly, they may be reserved with strangers initially.

Goldendales are best suited for active families or individuals who can provide them with ample space, consistent training, and plenty of affection.

Adaptable to various living situations, provided their needs are met.

Their large size may not be suitable for very small living spaces or for individuals who cannot handle a large dog.

The ideal owner for a Goldendale is someone who appreciates a large, affectionate companion and is committed to providing consistent training, regular exercise, and attentive care. They thrive in a family environment where they can be an integral part of daily life.

Caring for a Goldendale involves regular grooming due to their thick coat, a balanced diet suitable for large breeds, and a living environment with enough space.

Requires regular brushing, at least 2-3 times a week, to prevent matting and reduce shedding. More frequent brushing may be needed during shedding seasons.

Bathe only as needed, typically every few months, or when they get particularly dirty.

Feed a high-quality dog food formulated for large breeds, with portion sizes appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Typically, two meals per day are recommended to avoid bloat.

Best suited to homes with ample space, preferably with a securely fenced yard.

Trim nails regularly, usually every 2-4 weeks, or as needed.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections, especially if they have floppy ears.

Brush teeth regularly to maintain dental health.

Goldendales are moderately easy to train due to their intelligence, but they require consistent, positive reinforcement and ample exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Goldendales respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and play. Their intelligence allows them to learn commands relatively quickly, but their independent streak, inherited from the Great Pyrenees, may require patience and consistency. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended.

These dogs need a significant amount of exercise to match their size and energy levels. Daily walks, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and interactive activities are crucial. Aim for at least 60-90 minutes of exercise per day, which can be split into multiple sessions. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training is also important.

Maintain a consistent training routine to reinforce good behavior.

Use treats, praise, and play as rewards, avoiding harsh methods.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Provide puzzle toys and engage in training sessions to keep their minds active.

Ensure your yard is securely fenced due to their size and potential guarding instincts.

Essential due to their size and strength; start early.

Goldendales are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions inherited from their parent breeds.

A common skeletal condition in large breeds where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis.

Similar to hip dysplasia, this affects the elbow joints and can cause lameness and pain.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, more common in deep-chested breeds.

A degenerative eye disorder that eventually leads to blindness.

A heart condition characterized by a narrowing of the aorta, which can lead to heart failure.

The Goldendale is a relatively new hybrid breed, with its origin rooted in the desire to combine the desirable traits of the Golden Retriever and the Great Pyrenees. While the exact timeframe of its emergence isn't well-documented, the breed's development likely began in the late 20th or early 21st century, alongside the growing popularity of designer dogs. It is not officially recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC, as it is a mixed breed. The history of the Goldendale is tied directly to the histories of its parent breeds; the Golden Retriever, developed in Scotland for retrieving waterfowl, and the Great Pyrenees, an ancient breed from the Pyrenees Mountains used for guarding livestock.

No, Goldendales are not hypoallergenic. Their thick double coat sheds moderately, and more heavily during seasonal changes.

Goldendales shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during spring and fall. Regular brushing can help manage shedding.

Yes, Goldendales generally get along well with other pets, especially if they are raised together from a young age. Proper socialization is key.

Goldendales are not excessive barkers. They may bark to alert their owners to strangers or unusual situations, but they are not typically nuisance barkers.

The average lifespan of a Goldendale is 10-13 years, typical for large breed dogs.

While Goldendales can adapt to apartment living, it is not ideal due to their size and exercise needs. They thrive best in homes with yards.

Goldendales can be protective of their families and may act as watchdogs, but they are generally more gentle and less aggressive than traditional guard dog breeds.

Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) is the best way to groom a Goldendale, along with occasional baths and routine nail and ear care.

Adult Goldendales should typically be fed twice a day, with portion sizes appropriate for their size and activity level.

As a designer hybrid, Goldendales may not be as readily available as purebred Golden Retrievers or Great Pyrenees. It's important to find a reputable breeder or consider adoption from a rescue organization.