The outstanding qualities of retrievers that make them the best for families are widely popular all over the world. When combined with the second most popular breed in the US, the German shepherd, the retriever German shepherd mix is going to astonish you like never before.
Wondering how does the mix looks like and what qualities it brings together? Get yourself a chair as you have just landed in the right place. While this article is going to be all about golden retriever German shepherd mix, if you want, you can check out here about Labrador retriever German shepherd mix.
Everything you need to know about retriever German shepherd mix
Often called the Golden Shepherd, the mix breed is a cross between the Golden Retriever and German shepherd. Both of the parents’ breed belongs to the group of the most popular breed, as stated by the American Kennel Club. The mix is, therefore, going to inherit the best traits of German shepherds, as well as golden retrievers. Before you bring them home, you should learn everything about them.
Brief overview
Though the parents’ breed has been quite famous for a long time, the mix became popular just a few years back, and it has taken the reputation by storm.
German shepherds that were initially used for herding are well-known for their loyalty, intelligence, and strength, and are now being used for a wide variety of purposes that includes the use by the military.
Golden retrievers, on the other hand, were bred to retrieve shot game without causing any damage to it. They were utilized for this function because of their soft mouth.. However, due to their exceptional qualities, they are now among the most popular breeds to have for your family. The golden retriever is a perfect companion, showing absolute love and affection to its owner.
The retriever German shepherd mix brings with it loyalty, protectiveness, intelligence, and strength from the German shepherd side and love, affection, and care from the golden retriever. The combination of these qualities makes the golden shepherd the best of all. Kindness with a blend of devotion, obedience, and courage, the golden shepherd is an excellent breed to have at your home.
Appearance
The golden shepherd is a large dog breed with a height ranging from 20 to 26 inches. Talking about the weight, for an adult golden shepherd, it lies between 55 to 85 pounds.
As both parents breed have double coats, so is the golden shepherd. Their coat is going to be of medium to long size, thick, and can take colors from either of the parent breed or a mixture of both. Besides, the golden shepherd is a moderate shedder, so it is easy going with your family.
The body forms a sturdy frame with a straight back, muscular legs, and deep chest. Having dark-colored eyes, the face will give a wild look with large paws and a long muzzle.
Temperament
Considering the temperament of the parents’ breed, the retriever German shepherd mix personality is going to be a blend of both. Energetic, joyful, loving, and caring all go hand in hand at the same time. Moreover, they develop a healthy relationship not only with the owner but with all family members. You will rarely find the golden shepherd in aggressive behavior as it is not in their nature at all.
Inheriting the German shepherd’s protectiveness, the golden shepherd can turn out to be an excellent watchdog, but you have to train them accordingly. Not only are the retriever shepherds full of fun with other dogs, but they are super cool with kids as well.
Having a friendly and loving nature, this breed doesn’t like to be left alone. If you do leave them unaccompanied for a few hours, they will face severe mental issues such as separation anxiety.
Training and exercise requirement
Sharing the traits of the German shepherd, you can say that the golden shepherd is going to be highly energetic, and it is completely true. Having an inquisitive nature, their eagerness to learn makes them easy to train. Whatever you are going to teach in the early years, they are going to grasp it for the rest of their life. Training must include socializing and teaching commands so that you get the perfect partner in the shape of the golden shepherd.
When it comes to exercise requirements, a moderate level of exercise is enough. Moreover, you have to include a variety of exercises that include mental stimulation. Retriever shepherds are affectionate, and you will love spending time with them. Besides physical games, you can include brain games, and you will be surprised to see how quickly they learn new things.
Because of its large size, the golden shepherd does not seem to fit well in congested places and needs fresh air to keep them active and healthy. Rest aside; they are impeccable as a family dog.
Health
Having an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years, the golden shepherd lives a healthy and happy life. There are no specific health issues until and unless you provide them with good quality food and take care of their exercise needs.
In addition, you have to deal with mental issues if you leave them in solitary for a long duration. Plus, they can also face some common issues that include Hip Dysplasia and joint pain. If you find anything unusual or see a change in behavior, take them to the veterinarian for a checkup.
Proper diet, regular exercise, checkup, and good company; it is what golden shepherds require to spend their lives in the best possible manner.
Grooming and care
Just like any other dog breed, golden shepherds also require grooming, especially because of their double coats. A happy and healthy dog is always well-groomed. So, keep a close eye on grooming and continue doing it right away.
Conclusion
Extremely sociable, highly intelligent, obedient, energetic, and loyal; these are a few traits that are not commonly found in one dog. But with a golden shepherd, you have got a complete package. Each and every detail about the retriever German shepherd mix makes you love the breed more and more. Are you planning on having a retriever shepherd at your home soon?