Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Golden Cocker Retriever Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & Traits

Golden Cocker Retriever

The Golden Cocker Retriever breed is an adorable dog who is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Golden Retriever. If you’re searching for a pet that loves to participate in outdoor family activities, is great with kids, and is still gentle, loyal, loving, and friendly, then the Golden Cocker Retriever could be just the right choice for you and your family.

Breed Overview

Height:

20 to 24 inches

Weight:

30 to 45 pounds

Lifespan:

12 to 15 years

Colors:

Light brown or black

Suitable for:

Big backyards, active families with kids, pet owners with plenty of time

Temperament:

Gentle, loyal, friendly, loving

The Golden Cocker Retriever is the perfect choice for first-time pet parents, this playful, extremely intelligent breed will make someone a loyal companion for many years to come. But, of course, you want to know everything about the Golden Cocker Retriever before making your final decision, and we’re here to help with that. In the guide below, we’ll tell you what you should know to decide if this breed of dog is the one you want to give a forever home to.

Golden Cocker Retriever Characteristics

Energy
+
High-energy dogs will need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy, while low-energy dogs require minimal physical activity. It’s important when choosing a dog to make sure their energy levels match your lifestyle or vice versa.
Trainability
+
Easy-to-train dogs are more skilled at learning prompts and actions quickly with minimal training. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice.
Health
+
Some breeds, due to their size or their breeds potential genetic health issues, have shorter lifespans than others. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet.
Lifespan
+
Some dog breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every dog will have these issues, but they have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Sociability
+
Some dog breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other dogs. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed, it’s important to socialize your dog and expose them to lots of different situations.

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

Golden Cocker Retriever Puppies

If you’ve ever been around a Golden Cocker Retriever puppy, then you’ve already had your heart melted by this breed and are probably already leaning towards adopting or purchasing one of your very own. So fuzzy and cuddly that you just want to squeeze them, this is a playful breed. Since they are a designer breed that is pretty much new, there isn’t much information to be found on them. However, they did get all the best traits from their loving Cocker Spaniel and Golden Retriever parents.

Like most puppies, this breed is going to be curious, active, and into everything so they can learn everything about the environment they live in.

Golden Cocker Retriever
Image Credit: Left- Koen Tymoshenko Olga, Shutterstock | Right – V_Lisovoy, Shutterstock

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

Temperament & Intelligence of the Golden Cocker Retriever 🧠

This is an intelligent breed of dog and is alert yet docile at the same time. We’ve already stated that this is the perfect breed for beginning dog owners, as they are very family-oriented, eager to please, and friendly.

However, it’s important to realize this dog will want to be included in everything their family does, whether it’s surfing Netflix on the couch or an outside picnic while throwing the Frisbee. Therefore, it’s best to bring this puppy into a home with a large family that has plenty of time to spend with him, as he will suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for a very long a time.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

As previously stated, this dog breed is the perfect pet for a large, boisterous, active family. They are great with children and will have no problem getting out in the front yard getting dirty with the best of the lot. Because they are so sweet and loving, this dog is more patient being with smaller children than most dog breeds are.

While this dog can be a companion to one person, it’s best to work out of your home or take the dog with you wherever you go, as they do have a needy streak and want to be around their people constantly.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽 

This breed of dog is social and can co-exist peacefully with other types of animals in a home. They do, however, have a hunting streak from their ancestors, and while that drive isn’t very high, they could chase smaller animals. While this breed is in no way aggressive, they will be very protective of their family, so if they feel you’re in danger from an angry person or an aggressive animal, their instinct will be to protect.

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

Things to Know When Owning a Golden Cocker Retriever

So, you now know quite a bit about the Golden Cocker Retriever, you’re probably ready to go out and adopt or purchase one for your family. Now is when you need to find the food, diet, and exercise requirements for your furry friend, as well as the training and grooming required. We’ll cover these things in our next sections, as well as the health conditions you should watch out for and the difference between the male and female of this adorable designer breed.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

Your puppy can eat around 4 cups of high-quality dry food a daily. However, it’s best to break those meals into one in the morning and one at night. Make sure that you feed your pup a diet that is balanced with the best quality dog food, one that fits his energy level and lifestyle for the best results.

You can give your pup some scraps from the table and healthy treats to round out his diet as well. Ask your vet if you’re unsure of what to feed your dog. He’ll make sure you’re on the right track with the highest quality, healthiest food.

Exercise 🐕

We’ve already stated that the Golden Cocker Retriever is full of energy and needs to be active. Your pup will need to be walked for at least an hour a day, which you can turn into two walks if it’s best for you and your pup. Whether you’re walking, running, jogging, or doing some other outdoor activity, you can be sure your pup will want to tag along.

Training 🎾

As with any dog breed, this puppy needs to be trained and socialized when they’re young for the best-behaved dog possible. Training should be pretty easy since the dog is intelligent and loves to please. Make sure that you expose your pet to different places, people, sights, and smells so that he does well. It’s important to have a calm environment for your pet, as being in an angry, stressful environment constantly can cause him to become depressed and sad.

Grooming ✂️

It’s recommended that you bathe your pet at least once every six to eight weeks. In addition, he must be groomed regularly because he has dense, long fur that can get knotted and tangled easily, especially as active as he is. It’s a good idea to have a standard appointment with a groomer for your pet, especially if you’re unsure of how to groom him yourself.

Health and Conditions 🏥

You need to watch out for a few serious and minor conditions with the Golden Cocker Retriever. We’ll list them for you below. If you find your pet has signs of any of these conditions, make an appointment with your vet right away for diagnosis and treatment.

Minor Conditions
  • Weight gain
  • Ear infections
  • Issues with their paws
Serious Conditions
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Entropion
  • Hip Dysplasia

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

Male vs. Female

There are no real differences to report about the male and females of this breed.

Dogster divider_v3_NEW_MAY_24_

3 Little-Known Facts About the Golden Cocker Retriever

1. Golden Cocker Retriever Are a Sort of New Breed

The Golden Cocker Retriever breed is a sort of new breed of designer dog, as they have only been in mainstream existence for about 20 years.


2. There’s Little Information Available on the Golden Cocker Retriever’s Past

There’s very little information available when it comes to the history of this adorable pup. All we know is they’ve been around for at least two decades and are lovable, adorable, and playful to boot.


3. This is the Very First Mini Golden Retriever

With it reaching heights of 20 to 24 inches, this breed is, in fact, the very first mini golden retriever breed.

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

Final Thoughts

This concludes our guide on the Golden Cocker Retriever, and everything needed to adopt your purchase one for your family. Remember, this designer breed hasn’t been around for very long, but this puppy is one of the most adorable, loving, family-oriented animals there are.

It’s important to consider whether you have the time and patience it takes to take care of this breed, and any other dog breed as well, because this pup will be looking for a forever home, and you’re the one who is offering to give it to him. So, make sure you’re up for the responsibility of pet ownership before you make that final decision. If you know for sure in your heart that the Golden Cocker Retriever is the best pet for you, then you’re ready to take one home.

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Bullmastiff Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, Traits & More

With a build and background belying their true nature, the Bullmastiff’s gentle, affectionate manner can come as a surprise. Though the breed originated...

Why Does My Female Dog Lift Her Leg To Pee? Canine Behavior Explained

As dog owners, we like to know all we can about our pets. Understanding the behavior of our canine companions can lead to...

Strange Dog Hobbies: Why Is Fred Always Licking the Bed?

Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred....

Demodectic Mange in Dogs: Signs, Causes & Treatment (Vet Answer)

Demodex are mites normally found in low numbers in the hair follicles of dogs. They live their entire lives on the host and...

More related

How to Keep Birds Away from Dog Food: 7 Easy & Effective Ideas

If you are someone that feeds your dog outdoors, you are bound to have some trouble with the local wildlife scavenging for their...

Black Friday/Cyber Monday Dog Deals 2025: Sales on Toys, Beds, Supplies & More

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the biggest days for retail in the United States. Whether you’re looking for the perfect...

White Labradoodle: Info, Pictures, Origin & History

The white Labradoodle is a friendly crossbreed that has genes from the popular Labrador Retriever and the low-shedding Poodle. The result is a...

10 Best Dog Foods for Skin and Coat in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

You might have noticed that your dog’s coat is changing for the worse, and you want to do something about it. Like human...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Green Beans? Vet-Approved Feeding Facts

Our canine companions are excellent at sneaking food off our plates or out of our hands, but human food isn’t always the best for them. Sometimes, our food has more fat and sodium than our dogs need, while other times,...

Can Dogs Eat Green Beans

10 Best Dry Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Dry dog food is convenient, long-lasting, and easy to store. It’s also highly nutritious, making it the most popular option for many pet parents. Of course, with this popularity comes a myriad of different brands on the market, some of...

measures a portion of dry dog food using an electronic scale

8 Best Dog Foods for Weight Loss in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Most dogs love to eat and we love to feed them! Giving them food and treats that we know that they enjoy makes us happy. The downside is that dogs can gain weight if we aren’t careful with their diets....

Shetland sheepdog eats food from a food bowl

9 Ways to Keep Your Dog Out of Your Cat’s Food

For one reason or another, animals always seem to like food that doesn’t belong to them. Perhaps dogs think that cat food tastes better or that the food that doesn’t belong to them is always tastier! Either way, your canine...

labrador retriever eating dog food

What To Add to Dog Food for Dry Skin: 9 Great Ideas

As dog owners, we understand the frustration of a pet that scratches and licks excessively, but it is much more agonizing for the dog. If you checked for fleas and there are none, your canine friend likely has dry, itchy...

woman feeding dalmatian dog

Can Dogs Eat Durian? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Safer Alternatives

The durian fruit has gained a lot of attention for its pungent aroma rather than its taste or any health benefits. The fruit comes encased in a prickly shell, and “the king of fruits” has a smell that is described...

Dogster-Can-Dogs-Eat-Durian

Can Dogs Eat Eggs With Cheese? Vet-Reviewed Health & Nutrition Guide

Feeding your dog tasty treats is one of the simple joys in life, and as many dog owners will attest, it’s even more fun when you and your pet can share the same meal. If you’ve just made a delicious...

Can Dogs Eat Eggs With Cheese

10 Dog Food Trends in 2025: Pet Food Industry Facts & Statistics

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website. With today’s consumers enjoying better education and more resources to improve their dogs’ quality of life, manufacturers are ramping up their efforts to...

golden retriever dog eating healthy dry food from bowl at home