Have you ever wondered what makes English Cream Golden Retrievers so special? Why are they often referred to as the “royalty” of the Golden Retriever world? If you’re considering adding one of these beautiful dogs to your family or simply want to know more about them, you’re in the right place!
In this detailed and summarized guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about English Cream Golden Retrievers, from their unique characteristics and health concerns to grooming tips and costs.
English Cream Golden Retriever: General information
An English Cream Golden Retriever is a variant of the Golden Retriever breed, known for its light cream coat. Originating from European lines, particularly the UK, these dogs are celebrated for their calm temperament and robust health.
They are often referred to as “White Golden Retrievers” or “European Golden Retrievers” due to their lighter coat color compared to the American Golden Retrievers. Despite the color difference, they share many characteristics with their American counterparts, including their friendly and loyal nature.
| Breed Name | English Cream Golden Retriever |
| Origin | United Kingdom (European lines) |
| Coat Color | Pale, cream-colored |
| Size | Males: 23-25 inches, 65-75 pounds and Females: 21-23 inches, 55-65 pounds |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy, especially during seasonal changes |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Common Health Issues | Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, retinal dysplasia, heart conditions, cancer |
| Temperament | Gentle, friendly, social, good with people and animals |
| Grooming Needs | Brush twice a week, bathe every 6-8 weeks, regular ear checks, nail trimming, dental care |
| Feeding Requirements | 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals |
| Spaying/Neutering | Recommended between 6-12 months of age |
| Varieties | No official “mini” variety, some breeders offer smaller-sized Golden Retrievers |
| Cost | $1,500 to $3,500 for a puppy |
| Why Expensive | Popularity, breeding and raising costs, desirable traits |
How Big Do English Cream Golden Retrievers Get?
Male English Cream Golden Retrievers typically stand 23-25 inches tall and weigh between 65-75 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing 21-23 inches tall and weighing 55-65 pounds. These dogs are known for their sturdy build and muscular physique, which makes them excellent working dogs as well as family pets. Their size and strength also mean they require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness.
Are English Cream Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic?
No, English Cream Golden Retrievers are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds year-round, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
Their shedding can be quite significant, especially during the spring and fall when they blow their coats. Regular grooming can help manage the shedding, but it won’t eliminate it entirely. If you or someone in your household has allergies, it’s important to spend time with the breed before committing to ensure you can manage the allergens.
Do English Cream Golden Retrievers Shed?
Yes, they do shed. English Cream Golden Retrievers have a medium-length double coat that sheds moderately to heavily, especially during seasonal changes. Their undercoat is dense and soft, while the outer coat is water-resistant and slightly wavy. Regular brushing can help reduce the amount of loose hair and keep their coat healthy. During shedding seasons, daily brushing may be necessary to keep up with the increased hair loss.
Health and Lifespan
How Long Do English Cream Golden Retrievers Live?
The average lifespan of an English Cream Golden Retriever is around 10-12 years. With proper care, some can live even longer. Their lifespan can be influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care.
Providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine health check-ups can help ensure your Golden Retriever lives a long and healthy life.
English Cream Golden Retriever Health Issues
Common health issues include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions like retinal dysplasia. They are also prone to heart conditions such as subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) and certain cancers. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help manage these risks. It’s also important to choose a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs for common genetic conditions to reduce the risk of inherited health issues.
Are English Cream Golden Retrievers More Aggressive?
No, English Cream Golden Retrievers are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are typically very social and get along well with people and other animals. Their temperament makes them excellent family pets and therapy dogs. They are known for their patience and tolerance, which makes them great companions for children. However, like all dogs, they require proper socialization and training to ensure they develop into well-behaved adults.
Care and Grooming
How to Groom an English Cream Golden Retriever
Regular grooming is essential. Brush their coat at least twice a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 6-8 weeks. Their ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and their nails should be trimmed monthly.
Dental care is also important. Brushing their teeth several times a week can help prevent dental disease. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking good but also helps you monitor their health and catch any potential issues early.
How Much to Feed an English Cream Golden Retriever
An adult English Cream Golden Retriever typically needs about 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals. The exact amount can vary based on their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies and active dogs may require more food, while older or less active dogs may need less.
It’s important to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their food intake as needed to maintain a healthy weight. Always provide fresh water and avoid feeding them table scraps or foods that are toxic to dogs.
Spaying/Neutering English Cream Golden Retriever
When to Spay or Neuter an English Cream Golden Retriever
It’s generally recommended to spay or neuter your English Cream Golden Retriever between 6-12 months of age. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best timing for your specific dog. Spaying or neutering can help prevent certain health issues and reduce unwanted behaviors.
It can also help control the pet population and reduce the number of unwanted dogs in shelters. Discuss the benefits and risks with your vet to make an informed decision for your pet.
Mini English Cream Golden Retriever
It is important to know there is no official “mini” English Cream Golden Retriever, like other Mini Golden Retrievers, some breeders may offer smaller-sized Golden Retrievers. These are typically the result of selective breeding and are not recognized as a separate breed.
They may be crossed with smaller breeds to achieve a smaller size, but it’s important to research and choose a reputable breeder to ensure the health and well-being of the puppies.
Be cautious of breeders who advertise “mini” Golden Retrievers, as they may not be following ethical breeding practices.
Costs and Expenses
How Much Are English Cream Golden Retrievers?
The price of an English Cream Golden Retriever can range from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the breeder, lineage, and location. Puppies from champion bloodlines or with show potential may cost even more.
In addition to the initial purchase price, there are ongoing costs such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and supplies. It’s important to budget for these expenses and ensure you can provide for your dog’s needs throughout their life.
Why Are English Cream Golden Retrievers So Expensive?
Their high cost is due to their popularity, the expense of breeding and raising healthy puppies, and their desirable traits such as their calm temperament and beautiful coat. Reputable breeders invest in health testing, quality food, and proper care for their breeding dogs and puppies, which contributes to the higher price.
While it may be tempting to look for a cheaper option, it’s important to choose a breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Conclusion
English Cream Golden Retrievers are a delightful and charming variant of the Golden Retriever breed. Known for their beautiful pale coats, friendly behaviour, and robust health, they make excellent family pets and companions.
While they require regular grooming and care, their loving nature and loyalty make them well worth the effort. Whether you’re considering adding one to your family or simply want to learn more about this wonderful breed, understanding their needs and characteristics can help you provide the best care possible.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between an English Cream Golden Retriever and an American Golden Retriever? English Cream Golden Retrievers have a lighter, cream-colored coat compared to the darker, golden coat of American Golden Retrievers. They also tend to have a stockier build and a calmer temperament.
2. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers good with children? Yes, they are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them excellent companions for children. They are patient and tolerant, which makes them great family pets.
3. How often should I groom my English Cream Golden Retriever? You should brush their coat at least twice a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Bathing should be done every 6-8 weeks, and regular ear checks, nail trimming, and dental care are also important.
4. What are the common health issues in English Cream Golden Retrievers? Common health issues include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, retinal dysplasia, heart conditions, and certain cancers. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help manage these risks.
5. How much exercise does an English Cream Golden Retriever need? They require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are important to keep them fit and prevent boredom.
6. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers easy to train? Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed.
7. How much does it cost to own an English Cream Golden Retriever? The initial cost of a puppy ranges from $1,500 to $3,500. Additionally, you should budget for ongoing expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and supplies.
8. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers hypoallergenic? No, they are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds year-round, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
9. When should I spay or neuter my English Cream Golden Retriever? It’s generally recommended to spay or neuter your dog between 6-12 months of age. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best timing for your specific dog.
10. Can English Cream Golden Retrievers live in apartments? While they can adapt to apartment living, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Access to outdoor spaces and daily walks are essential to keep them happy and healthy.
