There is one very popular mix breed known by the name of Golden Shepherd, which is mixed with the great qualities of a German Shepherd and a Golden Retriever. This crossbreed is intelligent, loyal, and friendly. Thus, it can be found in families and with individuals as well.
In this detailed guide, we look at everything you should know about the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix from its characteristics and temperament all the way to size, and the ever so important grooming needs.
What is a German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix?
The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is more famously referred to as a Golden Shepherd. This dog breed is a result of the breeding between a German Shepherd and a Golden Retriever. This makes it obedient, intelligent, loyal, with a friendly nature. Being quite a new hybrid, the Golden Shepherd is a relatively recently developed hybrid. It is seen to have gained in popularity regarding being fittingly versatile for a family pet, a working dog, and even up to becoming a service animal.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Name | German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix (Golden Shepherd) |
| Size | 20-27 inches tall |
| Weight | 55-85 pounds |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
| Coat Type | Medium to long, double coat |
| Temperament | Loyal, friendly, intelligent |
| Energy Level | High; needs regular exercise |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy |
| Price | $500 – $1,500 |
Characteristics and Temperament of a Golden Shepherd
The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is an all-rounded temperament that combines the social and energetic qualities of a Golden Retriever with the intelligence and protective instincts of a German Shepherd.
- Personality Traits: The Golden Shepherd usually tends to be friendly, affectionate, and willing to please. They are generally great with kids and other animals, which indeed makes them a fine family companion.
- Behavior: Tremendously smart, these dogs need mental stimulation and physical activities that would keep them joyous and fit. They indeed are very quick learners and do well with almost all types of obedience training and various dog sports.
- Suitable to Keep as a Pet: Loyal and protective, German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix dogs are good family pets. Highly adaptive canines, they generally do well in apartment spaces as much as in houses with large yards.
Physical Traits and Size of the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
The size and looks of a Golden Shepherd can vary since it gets different sizes and looks from its parents.
- Size: An average German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix weighs somewhere between 55–85 pounds and measures 20–27 inches measured at the shoulder. Males are usually larger.
- Coat Type and Color: The coat is usually medium to long and can be straight or wavy. Common colors are black, tan, gold, and cream; normally, both parents’ colors mingle.
- Body Build: Normally strong and athletic, just like treats from both the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever.
Health and Lifespan of a Golden Shepherd
Although the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is a generally healthy breed, a few dog diseases are common to the breed.
- Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Golden Shepherd falls in the range of 10 to 14 years with proper care, good genetics, and a well-balanced diet.
- Health Problems: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and some heart conditions are possible health problems. Check-up visits to the veterinary and a healthy lifestyle certainly can avoid the worst from happening.
- Good Health Maintenance: Proper diet, regular exercise, and frequent check-ups are the key to maintaining the good health of a German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix.
Care for the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
Grooming is necessary for the Golden Shepherd, as this is a double-coated dog breed that sheds heavily.
- Shedding: Throughout the year, German Shepherd Golden Retriever mixes are considered to be moderate to heavy shedders. During periods of large amounts of fallen hair-spring and fall-make sure to groom regularly to keep the shedding manageable.
- Grooming Needs: You should try to brush your Golden Shepherd at least 2-3 times a week to get rid of the loose fur and to prevent matting. Moreover, they need frequent bathing, cleaning of the ears, and trimming of the nails.
Cost and Availability of the Golden Shepherd
The cost of a German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix varies and depends on a few factors widely.
- Price Range: You will be spending an average of $500 to $1,500 for a Golden Shepherd puppy. The price will, of course, vary depending on your breeder’s reputation, the breeder’s location, and the puppy’s lineage.
- Adoption vs. Purchase: The cost of adopting a Golden Shepherd is mostly cheap at a price of $100 – $500. Adopting from rescue or shelter organization is making a happy home to a dog in need.
Locating a German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
There are many sources from which you can locate a German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix if you are passionate about owning one.
Reputable Breeders: Find breeders concerned with the health and well-being of the dogs. Ask for health clearances and a visit to breeding facilities as much as possible.
Rescue Organizations: Adoption from breed-specific rescues or your local animal shelters is a valuable consideration. Several rescues deal with only certain breeds, one of them being the Golden Shepherd.
- Important Considerations: Be ready with the commitment of a Golden Shepherd– to regularly exercise or train, and socialize your dog.
Conclusion
The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is a magnificent crossbred that got the best of both parents and inherited the intelligence and loyalty of a German Shepherd and the friendly and social nature of a Golden Retriever. Be it a family pet, guide dog, or loving companion, the Golden Shepherd is the best of the best. Remember to properly research for a good breeder or even a rescue, and be prepared for all the great experiences and all the work of having this awesome breed.
Happy Finding…
