Golden Retrievers (also known as Goldens and Goldies) were originally bred to retrieve and hunt. They are loved by many people and make wonderful family pets.
How much is a Golden Retriever really expensive?
A playful Golden Retriever puppy enjoying the outdoors. A Golden Retriever puppy can cost from $1000 up to $3,500 .
However, it will cost you differently depending on many factors such as gender, age and coat color, popularity and location of the breeder, lineage and many others.
You should also consider shipping and vaccinations fees, as well as the cost of medications, screenings, and health screenings.
What about if you are looking to adopt an older or senior Golden? Adoption fees for a Goldie range from $250 to $550. Are they available for adoption free of charge if you rescue this breed of dog?
What is the cost of Golden Retriever puppies?
Purebred Golden Retriever puppies are usually priced between $1000 and $3500 when purchased from a trusted breeder in the United States.
If the Golden puppy comes from a champion breeding line, you can expect to pay more.
What determines the price you will pay? Which end of the cost spectrum are you?
Factors that Influence the Price of a Golden Retriever Puppy
Price of a Golden Puppy is determined by several factors.
- Golden Retriever’s pedigree. Puppies bred to show off or from high-tier bloodlines tend to be more expensive than those bred to companionship.
- The age of a Golden Retriever. Adult dogs are usually more expensive than puppies.
- Health of the Golden Retriever. However, vet bills can quickly mount up.
- What’s included with your puppy? Expect at least some of the following to be added to your bill:
A Golden Retriever on a road trip. Although you might be tempted to choose the lowest price, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will pay less tomorrow.
It is possible to save money by buying an unvaccinated Golden Retriever or without any health documentation.
However, in the not-too-distant future, you will have to pay for all those items yourself.
Furthermore, purchasing a Golden Retriever puppy without any health guarantees is risky financially as well as emotionally.
Avoid the pain and expense of being attached to a sick dog. Be sure to weigh the price you pay and the quality of the pup you get.
Do You Choose a Golden Puppy Or an Older Dog?
You might be wrong if you believe that Golden Retriever puppies and adult dogs are the same price.
Younger Goldens are almost always more expensive than their older counterparts. This is true regardless of whether you adopt the dog or breed it.
Older Golden Retrievers are generally less expensive than puppies and tend to be more affordable over the course of their lives.
Why is Golden Retrievers more expensive than their adult counterparts?
The first year of ownership for your Golden Retriever puppy will cost you $2100 to $3000. A Golden adult will cost you $1500 to 2500 over the same time.
What’s the difference? Golden puppies need obedience classes, regular vet visits, and an almost endless supply of puppy pads, teething toys, and puppy pads.
Older Golden Retrievers aren’t as concerned. There are many other benefits and disadvantages to consider, besides price.
Not only will adult golden dogs save you money, but they don’t require as much housetraining and obedience training. However, any bad habits they have could be deeply ingrained and difficult to change.
You can, however, mold the Golden Retriever puppy’s behavior and personality to fit your family and lifestyle. The privilege is available for an additional fee. These tips will help you make a decision if you decide to take a Golden dog with you.
Are large Golden Retrievers more expensive than smaller ones?
You can choose between a Golden puppy or an adult Golden. But you need to consider the size and budget of your dog. The rule of thumb is that the larger the dog, the more expensive.
First, bigger Golden Retrievers eat more than smaller dogs. Dog food and treats will cost you more.
Certain medical expenses take into consideration the size of your dog. Your dog’s weight will determine the price of heartworm and flea/tick prevention.
Your pooch’s spay/neuter surgery bill will also take into account Fido’s weight.
Golden Retrievers are usually 55-75 lbs (25-34 kg). A Golden of 60 pounds won’t likely cost more than a Golden of 55 pounds.
However, a Golden Retriever that is closer to 75 pounds could cost hundreds (or even thousands) more in their lifetime.
The average lifetime cost for a Golden Retriever is $14.500 to $15.800.
What does it cost to breed a Golden Retriever?
We need to be able to make an informed purchase of a Golden puppy.
There are a few variables that influence the price of breeding Golden Retrievers:
- Litter Size: Golden litters usually have 5-10 pups. Prices for puppies from smaller litters tend to be higher than those with multiple siblings.
- Show quality for Golden Retriever puppies with champion show dogs parents Expect to spend $4000 or higher However, a Golden Retriever pup with champion show dog parents might be disqualified from showing because of their conformation or appearance. For pups who are destined to play in the backyard or snuggle on the couch, you might be able to negotiate a price.
- Specific features: Prices will reflect a breeder’s unique characteristics, such as a particular color of coat or a bloated head.
When you see the prices some breeders charge for their puppies, your jaw might drop to the floor. Reliable breeding is not cheap.
A litter of Golden Retriever puppies can run from $8,000 up to $24,000 .
Ethical breeding is a huge financial investment. Be wary of anyone who charges a low price for their Golden Retrievers.
This might be something you already know. What other warning signs can you look out for in order to identify shady breeders and weed them out?
Which Golden Retriever color is the most expensive?
English Cream Golden Retrievers have the highest price because of their heritage. An English Cream Golden puppy will cost you $1000 to 3000.
Learn more about the different golden retrievers that are based on color.
How to Avoid Puppy Mills and Find a Reputable Golden Retriever Breeder
Puppy mills are breeders who subject their dogs to hazardous conditions. These dogs are often neglected, overbred and malnourished.
This is probably obvious. Golden Retriever puppies bred in these facilities are more likely to develop health problems.
Puppy mills are also able to keep their businesses afloat by purchasing puppies from them. This is a loss-lose situation for both the dogs and their owners.
You don’t need to be an expert to spot a fraudulent breeder. This article will explain how to find a good Golden Retriever breeder.
1. Ask questions about the health of your Golden dog.
Breeders who are the best at breeding puppies should start their medical care well before they are born. Proof of genetic testing and vet-certified health screening should be available to breeders for their Golden pups and stock.
If a breeder doesn’t give you the information you need, there’s a reason. You shouldn’t try to figure it out.
2. Meet your Goldie’s breeder and the parents of your pup.
Although internet research is great, it will not tell you if your Goldie pup is sleeping on a warm, clean blanket in the breeder’s guest room or in an open, outdoor kennel.
It is also important to observe how breeders and their families interact with their Golden Retrievers.
Breeders must have strong relationships with their adult dogs. These are responsible for the pup’s socialization.
They should not be unsure or uncomfortable around their stock.
A breeder who seems unsure or isn’t available in a week or less could be stalling.
The facility of a reputable Golden breeder should be kept clean and ready for potential owners, especially if they have puppies.
Safety first, but! Take a friend, or two, and don’t be afraid of changing your plans to avoid being alone.
Tip: Check out the websites and social media profiles of Golden Retriever breeders before you go. Be cautious if their website is not accurate.
3. Refer to others.
You must be ready to do your research when searching for the perfect breeder for your Goldie.
This time you are examining the character of breeders.
Establishing Golden Retriever breeders who have a good reputation will be well-connected within the local pet community. Read objective customer reviews on Yelp and Google .
Request contact information from the breeder for professional references.
You will hopefully have had a chance to speak with the groomer, vet, or trainer by the end of it all.
What is the cost to rescue and adopt a Golden Retriever?
It is a great way to save money by adopting your Golden Retriever. You could spend anywhere between $250 and $550 on a shelter.
A rescue Golden costs only a fraction of what a typical breeder would charge, even at the top end.
There are other benefits to rescuing your Golden puppy. Adopted dogs are often already altered and have had their first round vaccines. This saves you the time and hassle of dealing with it yourself.
Many are microchipped. You can also bring home an adult dog, a senior Golden, or a puppy.
Adoption centers seldom have the complete medical and behavioral history of a dog. It is not guaranteed that rescue Goldens will be purebred Goldens.
It’s possible to have a Golden Retriever/Labrador mix in your possession and not know it!
This is great news for those who love surprises and want a designer dog but don’t have the designer price.
If you are looking for a purebred Golden Retriever to match your needs, a breeder might be a better option.
What are the long-term costs of owning a golden dog?
Apart from the initial purchase cost of your Golden Retriever puppy’s, there are many other things that you will need money for when you bring your Golden Retriever home for the first-time.
Expense #1: Vet Bills for your Golden
Your Golden Retriever’s healthcare will be their biggest ongoing expense.
Vaccines cost between $70 and $200. Spay and neuter procedures can be as high as $515.
You’ll pay for your monthly heartworm prevention and annual check-ups.
Golden Retrievers with an average weight will likely be charged $30- $60 six months of heartworm prevention.
For six doses, both topical and oral flea and tick prevention costs $60-$120
Prices for routine vet visits vary depending on where they are performed. Call around to get estimates and quotes, but the majority will be between $100 and $250 .
$2500-$680 per year for medical costs. This is just the beginning. It could go much higher depending on the needs of your Golden.
Although Golden Retrievers are generally healthy, they can be predisposed to some serious health conditions.
Goldens could be at risk of hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. You dog may experience skin and eye problems, as well as heart problems.
Most concerning is the susceptibility of Golden to cancer.
You don’t want to shock your Golden Retriever with an expensive vet bill if the worst happens.
These are the average treatment costs for common Golden Health issues.
- Treatment for cancer: $8000 to $15 000
- Hip or elbow dysplasia, $1500 to $6,000
- Eye conditions (such as entropion and cataracts): $300 – $5,000
- Skin conditions (such ichthyosis, $50-$3,000)
Are these numbers making you feel a bit clammy? You don’t have to go broke to keep your Golden healthy and happy.
You can reduce long-term costs by getting your puppy vaccinated with health assurances. Your Golden Retriever should be vaccinated at least once a year .
Early detection is crucial to prolonging the life of your dog and avoiding expensive, long-term treatments.
You can also set reminders on your smartphone to ensure that you don’t miss a dose.
Expense #2: Food for your Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers can be large dogs, with even larger appetites. Most adult Goldens consume between 2 and 3.5 cups of food per day depending on their size, age, and level of activity. The vet will help you decide the best amount for your pet.
Let’s assume that your adult Golden Retriever consumes 3 cups of high-quality dog food each day. Feeding costs are approximately $55 per month.
Add another $10-20 to cover treats and Fido’s food budget, and you get just under $80-per-month or $960/year
As your Golden puppy gets older, your feeding costs will change. For example, your monthly food expenses might reach $50-$70 in the first year. This will depend on the preferences of your dog and you.
We assume that a Golden Retriever puppy will be fed a high-quality, dry diet. Raw or wet foods tend to be more expensive.
There are also brands that cost more than others. However, a higher price does not necessarily indicate better value.
You should determine how much you are able to spend on treats and food for your dog, and then work with your veterinarian to find the best diet for your Golden.
Next, go to your local pet shop and begin looking at ingredient labels. This information will help you find a dog food brand that is both affordable and nutritious.
A helpful hint:Look for foods that contain fewer preservatives and search for Association of American Feed Control Officials labels on the food your dog eats.
Although the organization does not regulate the pet food market or provide quality control, it does set nutritional standards for dog food.
Brands that have the AAFCO seal are more likely to feed Fido a healthy diet.
Expense #3: Supplies for your Golden
Pre-puppy shopping is one of the many joys that pet parenthood offers. These are also the most expensive.
You will need to make sure you have enough supplies for your Golden before you take your dog home. Must-haves include:
- Collars, harnesses and leashes from $10 to $30+
- Tags for dogs: $5-10
- Get food and water for $5-$25
- Dog crates: Prices range from $20 to $80+
- Grooming tools and brushes: $10+
- Total Cost: $50 to $155+
This list does not include any additional items, such as dog bedding, training materials, or stain removal for puppy mishaps.
These items can be added to your arsenal by increasing your budget. It is best to resist the temptation to purchase everything at once. Golden Retrievers will happily eat from stained Tupperware as well as a $50 designer bowl.
Prioritize the most important items and then spend when you can. You can also start with 2-3 toys from different manufacturers while you determine the preferences of your Golden dog.
Keep a few of these treasures hidden away from your Golden as you collect them. Rotate the toys every few weeks. You’ll never lose the novelty of your Golden’s toys, and you’ll be able to save tons of money.
You can toss Fido a few hand-me-downs, too. He can be entertained for hours with old shoes and washcloths. If your Golden does the thing where they open toys and shake them so hard, then cotton stuffing will pour down on your living room.
For $2-3, you can find discarded stuffed animals at thrift shops. Take out any hard plastic and let Fido take over!
#4: The Surprises of Expense
You’ve already set aside money for Golden’s new bed. Have you ever thought of your canine rainy-day fund.
Imagine this: You’re running for a promotion at work and your final interviews are at an out-of-state branch. You suddenly find yourself in a scramble to find a boarding kennel that is affordable.
Maybe Spot is a bit more stubborn than you thought. You’re spending over $100 for puppy kindergarten.
Surprise expenses for each owner will be different. These are the most frequent additional expenses that your Goldie will incur.
- Travel expenses: overnight boarding, sitters, hotel pet fees, travel from and to your puppy’s breeder/veterinarian
- Unplanned medical treatment due in part to neglect or accidents
- Socialization and Training: Playdates, Obedience Classes, Private Training
- Apartment Fees: Pet Deposits or Fees, Monthly Pet Rent
You should be prepared for unexpected expenses that your Golden might need.
Golden Retriever Price Range Summary
Here is a summary of the average cost of a Golden Retriever, including the first year costs of owning a puppy or adult Golden Retriever, as well as the adoption fee for an older Golden Retriever.
| Golden Retriever Category | Price Range |
| A typical Purebred Golden puppy | $1000 – $3500 |
| Show-quality golden puppy | $4000+ |
| The first-year total costs for a golden puppy | $2100 – $3000 |
| The first-year total costs for an adult golden Retriever | $1500 to $2500 |
| Adopting an elderly Golden Retriever | $250 to $550 |
Do You Want to Buy a Goldendoodle?
You might wonder if a Golden Retriever and Poodle mix would be a better investment after learning the true cost of owning one.
Goldendoodles have the same intelligence and happy disposition that purebred Goldens. Their low-shedding coat is their key difference.
Goldendoodles are available for sale at $2100. F1 Goldendoodles (purebred Golden Poodle + purebred Golden) are usually less expensive because they still shed some.
F1b Goldendoodles (purebred Poodle and F1 Goldendoodle), are more expensive because they shed less. They have curlier hair which gives them the unique Goldendoodle look.
Learn more about the differences between F1 and F1b Goldendoodle by reading our guide!
Conclusion: A Golden Retriever’s love is priceless
However, you can price your Golden Retriever ownership. Your Golden Retriever will cost you between $14,500 and $15,800 over its lifetime.
Prioritize your Golden’s well-being to get the best bang for your buck. Your time together will be more valuable than your money!