Also called Golden Labrador, Labrador x Golden Retriever
CrossbreedShort profile
From A cross of the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever, bred deliberately by guide and assistance dog organisations to join the strengths of both retrievers; no single country of origin is given by sources.12
A sturdy, well-muscled retriever with kind eyes and soft, floppy ears. The coat is thick and water-resistant, and its length depends on the parent the puppy favours: some have the Labrador's short coat, others the Golden's longer, feathered one.312
Warm, sociable and keen to work with people. The Goldador tends to mix the Golden Retriever's sensitivity and love of problem-solving with the Labrador's easygoing tolerance, which is why it shines in assistance roles. Temperament can lean towards either parent.413
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Plan on long daily walks (sources range from about 45 minutes to two hours or more), plus games, training and puzzle toys to keep the mind busy. Many love to swim.32
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush two to three times a week, more during shedding seasons, especially if the coat is on the longer side. Occasional baths, regular nail trims and tooth brushing round it out.32
Home where they are happiest
Best in a home with room to move, a garden and easy access to the outdoors; an active household suits it well. Does not like being left alone for long stretches.23
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Feed a complete diet suited to large dogs, split into at least two meals a day, and adjust portions to size and activity. Its love of food makes treats a great training tool, so count them in the daily total.231
Company who they like around
Thrives on human company and is usually patient with children and friendly with other household pets.23
The story where it all began
Guide dog schools began pairing Labradors with Golden Retrievers to combine the best qualities of both breeds for working with people who are blind or partially sighted. The cross proved so dependable that it became a core part of assistance dog programmes, and it is now also kept as a family pet.142
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Guide Dogs UK calls the Labrador x Golden Retriever cross its most successful guide dog, and over 60% of its working guide dogs are this cross.1
2
Assistance dog organisations list Golden Retriever/Labrador crosses among the dogs they choose most often, alongside Labradors, Goldens, Standard Poodles and German Shepherds.4
3
Goldadors also work as service, therapy and search and rescue dogs.2
4
Many Goldadors are true water dogs and happily dive into lakes and ponds.3
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Goldador' is a portmanteau of 'Golden Retriever' and 'Labrador Retriever', reflecting its mixed heritage as a cross between these two popular breeds.2
Famous ones stars of the breed
Kaia A popular Goldador on Instagram with the handle kaia_thegoldenmix, showcasing the breed's friendly and photogenic nature.5
Louie A Goldador featured on Instagram as louie_thegoldador, representing the breed's active and playful personality.5
Kyle A black Goldador owned by Instagram user k9kyle, demonstrating the breed's varied coat colors.5
I wake up with a happy bark, ready to start the day. After a quick breakfast, I carry my leash to my human, eager for our morning walk. We explore the park, and I splash in a puddle, then retrieve a stick with great pride. Back home, I help with chores by following my human around, always underfoot. In the afternoon, I solve a puzzle toy for a treat, then nap with my head on a shoe. When the kids come home, we play fetch until dinner. I end the day curled up, feeling loved.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
Major kennel clubs
A crossbreed, not a recognised pedigree breed; there is no breed standard.6
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Goldador. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Goldador tip
Goldadors are highly food-motivated and prone to weight gain, so keep treats to less than 10% of daily calories and use part of their kibble for training. Because they can have sensitive stomachs and a risk of bloat, offer treats in small amounts and avoid anything that causes digestive upset.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Goldador, and at what times?
Feed your Goldador at least two meals a day at consistent times. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Follow the food label and your vet for the right portions.2317
What should a Goldador eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, large-breed dog food. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always check with your vet if unsure.2318
How often should I bathe a Goldador?
Bathe your Goldador every couple of months, or at least every three months. More frequent baths are fine if they get very dirty or love the outdoors. Use a gentle dog shampoo.329Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Goldador need brushing?
Brush your Goldador two to three times a week, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. If your dog has a longer coat, brush more often to prevent mats. A slicker brush works well.329Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Goldador's nails, and how often?
Trim your Goldador's nails about once a month, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the pink quick. Ask your vet or groomer for a demo if needed.329Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Goldador need?
Your Goldador needs at least 45 minutes to two hours of daily exercise, plus play and mental games. They love to swim and join in family activities. A well-exercised Goldador is a calm, happy companion.32Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Goldador's teeth and ears?
Brush your Goldador's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste. Check their ears every two weeks for dirt or odor, and clean gently with a vet-approved solution. Never poke anything into the ear canal.329Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Goldador live?
Goldadors typically live between 10 and 15 years. With proper care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long, happy life.3
Is a Goldador good with children and other pets?
Yes, Goldadors are usually wonderful with children and friendly with other pets. They are patient, sociable, and love being part of a busy household.2341
Can a Goldador be left alone?
Goldadors do not like being left alone for long periods. They thrive on human company and may become anxious if left too often. If you're away, arrange for a dog walker or pet sitter.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Labrador Retriever
Golden Retriever
Goldendoodle
Labradoodle