Grooming Standards for Golden Retrievers

Golden retrievers consistently rank in the American Kennel Club's Top 5 most popular breeds, due in part to their gorgeous golden coat. The dogs are beloved companions, skilled as sporting dogs and guide dogs, and used as therapy dogs and search-and-rescue dogs. Their sunny dispositions and happy expressions make them welcome wherever they go.

  1. Setting the Standard

    • A golden's coat should be any shade of gold but not white.

      The golden-colored coat is the trademark of this lovable breed. Shades can range from light to dark gold but not white. The AKC standard describes the golden's coat as "dense and water-repellent with good undercoat." The standard continues, Outer coat firm and resilient, neither coarse nor silky, lying close to body; may be straight or wavy." AKC warns against trimming that ruins the natural look of these dogs. Caring for the breed's coat involves brushing out tangles before they become mats. Use a slicker brush to tidy the rough, long hair around the neck and the body, including feathering. Separate the hair to the skin and brush in small sections if the hair is knotty.

    Head to Tail

    • Goldens enjoy family outings.

      A golden's ears may need attention inside and out. Use thinning scissors if you want to trim straggly hairs from the ears, but do not cut shorter than the length of the ear itself. Check inside the ear, and wipe out dirt and waxy buildup. Take note of odors and excessive wax, which could signal ear mites. Your dog's paw hair may need trimming to allow traction needed for running. Simply clip long hairs away from the dog's paw pads so the pad can meet the ground. Also clip the toenails, but ask your veterinarian or groomer to show you how to do this job.

    More Than Skin Deep

    • Groom your dog right after activities that could involve thorns or parasites.

      The key word in grooming golden retrievers is "natural." The dogs should never look shaped or altered in outline. They should give an appearance of alertness and health -- ready to run in a field. Keeping your dog groomed and his skin healthy includes parasite control, especially for dogs who spend time outdoors. Fleas, ticks, mites and other parasites are managable with internal preventive medications, topically applied products, and through bathing and grooming. Some natural products, such as garlic, can help with parasites and skin condition. Control the parasites to prevent dermatitis, internal parasites and diseases related to parasites.

    Finishing Touches

    • A beautiful dog is the pride of any family.

      After brushing, clipping and shampooing your golden, you should brush and blow-dry the coat to remove remaining loose hairs. A grooming table, available at some pet stores and online pet supply merchants, is best for holding your dog still as you dry him; otherwise, have someone hold the dog still on a leash as you dry and brush. As you complete your grooming, don't forget the golden's fabulous tail: Brush it thoroughly and remove mats and tangles. The flashy tail of the golden retriever defines the attitude and style of this dynamic breed -- and it makes a great last impression.