16 Best Examples Of Dogs That Look Like A Golden Retriever

If you’d like to own some of the dogs that look like a Golden Retriever, but can’t think of any at the moment, I’m sure this list will greatly benefit you.

We have created a list of purebred canine breeds that look quite similar to the Golden pups that have become some of the most popular family dogs in the U.S. and other countries around the world.

Temperament, size, and coat hues are just some of the characteristics that these pups share with other breeds.

This article goes over all types of canines that have a similar appearance to a Golden Retriever, mixed with the unique features that make them stand out from these doggos.

Types Of Dogs That Look Like A Golden Retriever

1. Great Pyrenees

These canines are usually defined as majestic and giant canines because of their size.

Great Pyrenees have been long employed for the protection of sheep because of their intelligence and peaceful personality but preparedness to defend the animals or people if needed.

Similarities Between Great Pyrenees And Golden Retrievers

Both of these dog breeds possess a thick coat with lots of fluff, along with a magnificent tail.

However, that is also one of the reasons why you’ll find loose hair all around your house as Great Pyrenees shed just as much as Golden Retrievers.

However, you can resolve this issue simply by grooming your pup regularly. Great Pyrenees should be bathed as often as Golden Retrievers, at least once every three to four weeks.

These two canines are considered large dogs because of their powerful appearance, which includes a sturdy stature and a muscled body frame.

They also resemble in physical appearance, especially when it comes to their face as these two canines share similar shapes of ears, muzzles, and eyes.

Differences Between Great Pyrenees And Golden Retrievers

A Great Pyrenees is indeed one of the dogs that look like a Golden Retriever as they share a great number of physical similarities.

On the other hand, their temperament is quite different as Great Pyrenees are challenging to train because of their stubbornness, while Golden Retrievers don’t require much work as they are naturally even-tempered and obedient pooches.

Great Pyrenees usually cost about $1000 less than Golden Retrievers, so they might be a more budget-friendly option, although they’re not recommended for first-time owners.

Therefore, if you wish to own one, but you don’t have enough experience with large dogs, you will have the additional cost of hiring a professional dog trainer to turn it into a family dog.

Although they share a lot of physical traits, coat shades aren’t some of them as Great Pyrenees are usually covered in hues like gray, white, tan, and red, while Golden Retrievers come in dark, light, and standard golden, as well as cream shades.

2. Leonberger

This is another big dog that is considered perfect for families because it’s a sociable, mild-mannered, and fun-loving doggie that is great with kids.

The homeland of these pups is Germany, and many people actually compare them to German Shepherd dogs, not only because of their origin, but because of similar physical traits.

However, they’re quite similar to Golden Retrievers, too, which is why we have put them on this list as well.

Similarities Between Leonbergers And Golden Retrievers

These two breeds have similar temperaments as they’re both intelligent canines that love spending time with their owner and their family.

Leonbergers are just as good with children as Goldens, but they’re also friendly towards strangers, so you won’t have to fear their reactions if you’re having guests at your house.

They are obedient and loyal to their owner, so it won’t be difficult to train each of these breeds.

Leonbergers have a double coat, just like Golden Retrievers, so you can expect both of them to shed quite a lot throughout the whole year.

This also means that neither Leonbergers nor Golden Retrievers are hypoallergenic breeds.

Both of these canine types are fiercely energetic pooches, so you’ll have to take them outside, not only for walks, but for other outdoor activities, too.

The price of these pups is quite similar as Golden Retrievers usually cost about $2000, just like Leonbergers.

Differences Between Leonbergers And Golden Retrievers

The main difference between these two canines is their size. Although Golden Retrievers are considered big canines, with up to 24 inches in height and 80 pounds of weight, they’re not as big as Leons.

Leonbergers are a rather giant breed of dog as they can weigh up to 170 pounds, and grow up to 31 inches.

Coat shades are another difference between these two doggies as Leonbergers sport reddish, mahogany, red, yellow, brown, and sand, while Goldens come in more golden colors.

Leonbergers are known as a great working dog breed that is fully committed to working on farms.

On the other hand, Golden Retrievers are gun dogs that were used for hunting in the past, although nowadays, they’re more known as family dogs.

3. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Like the Golden Retriever, this dog breed is intelligent, emotional, and devoted to its human companions.

Well-known for their watertight coat, these dogs have chocolate brown or dead-grass fur, and yellowish-brown eyes.

These pups are often called Chessies, and they are considered to be some of the best hunters in the whole world.

Similarities Between Chesapeake Bay Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

Although these pups don’t seem very similar at first because of their coat and eye shades, they have many traits in common.

First of all, both of these breeds belong to the gun type of canines as they were actively used for hunting (Chessies are used for these purposes even today).

They have almost the same growth rate as a Chesapeake’s average height is about 24 inches, while Golden pups usually grow up to 23 inches (24 inches at most).

When it comes to their weight, Goldens weigh up to 80 lbs, just like Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

They’re both affectionate and intelligent pups, with quite a high prey drive, and they’re quite simple to train as they’re obedient enough to follow commands.

Chesapeakes and Golden Retrievers are good defenders of their home and their owner, but they definitely wouldn’t be qualified as the best watchdogs among other breeds.

Differences Between Chesapeake Bay Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are sometimes considered to be too friendly because of their kind demeanor and openness toward strangers.

However, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers aren’t so friendly to people and animals they don’t know, and they will act more protective, although they’re not hostile at all.

Goldens are very vocal, and they will bark quite a lot, while Chessies usually keep quiet unless they’re really dissatisfied with something you have/haven’t done.

These two breeds have different coat shades, too, as Chesapeakes are colored in brownish, deadgrass, and lighter shades, with certain markings on their coat.

Although they both have a double coat, Chesapeakes shed less than Goldens, so they’re easier to groom.

However, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are more dominant, so they might be more challenging to train, too.

4. Flat-Coated Retriever

These pups look like the dark side of a Golden Retriever. Just kidding, but they indeed look like darker shades of Goldens because of the similarities in the appearance between the two.

These pups come from England, where they have been used as hunting dogs both in water and on land.

It’s interesting to notice that this medium-to-large-sized canine has roots in several different dog types: Setters, Newfoundlands, Spaniels, and Sheepdogs.

That is why these dogs were considered mongrels, although they were acknowledged by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1915.

Similarities Between Flat-Coated Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

Just like Golden Retriever puppies, flatcoats are usually covered in a thick double coat, with a feathering tail and ears, which makes them soft and fluffy.

The weight between these two canines differs by ten pounds as Flatties usually weigh up to 70 lbs. When it comes to height, they follow the same growth rate of up to 23 inches that they reach in their mature size.

Just as their name says, Flat-Coated Retrievers have a flat coat, and so do Golden Retrievers.

Regarding personality, these two pups are quite similar as well. It can be said that both of these pups have high energy levels, which is the heritage of Retriever dogs.

They’re easily trainable because of their friendly and kind temperament, which is why they’re also considered great family pets.

These pups will be completely devoted to their owner, so they won’t have problems following and obeying their owner’s commands.

Differences Between Flat-Coated Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

Some of the most obvious differences between these two dogs are their coat colors. While Golden pups sport golden hues, Flatties usually come in black or liver shades.

Although they both have a thick double coat, it’s interesting to notice that Flat-Coated Retrievers don’t require frequent baths as Golden Retrievers do – they can be bathed every six to eight weeks, while Goldens need a bath at least every three weeks.

If you’re looking for a reliable watchdog, Flatties are the breed to go. These pups know how to defend their family, and they will do anything to keep their owner safe.

On the other hand, Golden Retrievers are great companions and excellent family pets, but they might not be reliable as guard dogs as they’re fond of strangers, too.

Flat-Coated Retrievers are also less expensive than Goldies as they’re usually priced around $1200 to $1500 (depending on the size, gender, colors, and other factors).

5. Irish Setter

There is no surprise that this dog breed resembles a Golden Retriever, considering that Irish Setters are one of the ancestors of these pups, along with Water Spaniels, St. John’s Water Dogs, and others.

The physical resemblance between the two is uncanny, but there are certain distinctive traits that make it easier to recognize which breed is which.

Similarities Between Irish Setters And Golden Retrievers

Both of these dog breeds have gentle expressions on their face, which is one of the reasons why people trust them so much. They also have an elegant body that is roughly the same size when it comes to their average weight (70 lbs).

Female and male Golden Retrievers, and Irish Setters, have approximately the same weight, but not the same height.

Irish Setters should be groomed just as much as Golden Retrievers because of their long, thick coat that contains feathering on their tail, ears, and chest.

They have similar temperaments as well since they’re both very affectionate, cuddly, smart, and loyal canines. Irish Setters have the same energy levels as Golden Retrievers, so they’ll enjoy all types of outdoor activities together.

These characteristics make them easy to instruct, so their owner will be able to train them by themselves.

Differences Between Irish Setters And Golden Retrievers

Irish Setters are essentially budget-friendly versions of Golden Retrievers as they’re available for $1000.

However, keep in mind that the price depends on the breeder of Irish Setters, the quality of the canines, their gender, and other factors.

Although they usually weigh the same, these pups don’t have the same growth rate. Irish Setters can grow up to 28 inches, which makes them up to four inches larger than male Goldens.

When it comes to female Irish Setters, they’re about two inches smaller than their male counterparts, but four inches bigger than female Golden Retrievers.

Size and price aren’t the only features that separate these two breeds as they don’t share the same coat color pattern either.

Setters are mostly colored in red or mahogany shades, and in several hues in between these two colors.

6. Bernese Mountain Dog

If you’re looking for well-behaved dogs that look like a Golden Retriever, then the Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the breeds that you need.

This type of canine is considered to be a great family dog because of its solid temperament and loyalty to its owner.

Despite having a kind disposition, the Bernese dog is a tireless helper that can either guard livestock or pull heavy carts. It can perform any of these tasks with utmost excellence.

Similarities Between Bernese Mountain Dogs And Golden Retrievers

Berners are known for their thick double coat, which is a heritage of their ancestors who lived in the Swiss Alps. Their undercoat is soft and fluffy, just like that of Golden Retrievers.

The double coat is one of the main reasons why these two breeds shed. But, if you perform regular grooming on these breeds, there will be far less excessive hair on your furniture and clothes.

The Golden Retriever breed is considered among the brightest ones, but Berners aren’t far behind them as they’re also often described as highly intelligent pups.

Bernese Mountain Dogs might appear intimidating because of their size, but they’re truly kind and obedient, which makes them easily trainable.

They might develop separation anxiety, just like Goldens, so make sure that you don’t leave them inside the house for too long.

Also, make sure they get enough daily exercise as they have the same energy levels as Golden pups.

Differences Between Bernese Mountain Dogs And Golden Retrievers

Although Berners are considered quite similar, there are a fair amount of differences between them. One of the main traits that make these breeds different is their size.

Both male and female Berners are heavier and taller than Goldens as male Bernese Mountain Dogs weigh up to 110 lbs, while female pups weigh around 105 lbs.

Male and female Golden Retriever dogs are always three to four inches smaller than Berners, which isn’t such a big difference considering their weight distinction.

Their coat might have the thickness, but not the same shades as Bernese Mountain Dogs sport colors like black and white rather than tan or gold.

When it comes to their personalities, it can be said that these two are some of the most popular dog breeds as family pets, along with Labradors, Rotties, Corgis, and other dog breeds.

However, it’s important to mention that Berners are far better guard dogs than Goldens. These pups will do anything to protect their family, and they won’t hesitate to defend them whenever they sense danger.

These pups also cost far less than Goldens, so if you’re looking for a more inexpensive doggie, then the Berner will be the perfect choice as they’re generally priced around $1000.

7. Labrador Retriever

According to the AKC, this friendly breed of canine is the most favored type of dog in the United States.

These pups are outgoing, and they would make a wonderful addition to any home as a pet due to the fact that they are so affectionate.

If you are looking for a canine that is full of life and up for any challenge, then the Labrador Retriever is the breed for you.

Similarities Between Labrador Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

Considering that both of these dog breeds are Retrievers, it’s natural that they have a lot of things in common. First of all, they’re both gun dogs, which means that they were bred as helpers for hunters during their expeditions.

However, both Goldens and Labs have been turned into family pets because of their excellent temperament and gentle disposition.

That is also one of the main reasons why both of these pups are quite easy to train.

When it comes to their physical appearance, the resemblance between these two dogs is uncanny, especially regarding their size as they both weigh up to 80 lbs at most, and grow up to 23 inches (males) and 21 inches (females).

Unfortunately, none of these pups is a good choice for allergy sufferers as neither Golden Retrievers or Labradors are hypoallergenic.

Differences Between Labrador Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

If you’re looking for dogs that look like a Golden Retriever, then Labradors would be a great choice. But, that doesn’t mean there is no distinction between them as they are considered two separate purebred dog types.

Labrador Retrievers generally sport coat shades like yellowish, charcoal, or chocolate.

It’s interesting to notice that light yellow Labradors remind many dog enthusiasts of English Cream Golden Retrievers to the point of confusion between the two.

Both of these dog breeds shed, but it’s far easier to maintain a Lab than a Golden Retriever as they have short hair rather than a long, smooth coat like the latter one.

When it comes to their temperaments, Labs and Goldens are both playful, fiercely energetic, and loving canines that respond well to their owner’s commands.

They’re both friendly and intelligent animals, which is why they’re considered great service or therapy canines.

Although they’re excellent family canines, you shouldn’t depend on them as guard dogs since these pups are rather friendly to strangers as well.

8. Kuvasz

The Kuvasz, a sheep protector native to Hungary, is yet another breed of dog that has the potential to be confused with an extremely light-shaded Golden Retriever.

Some dog enthusiasts and experts consider this breed to be an ancient canine because of the term “ku-assa” that appeared in archaeological findings, which is quite similar to the name of this guardian dog.

Similarities Between Kuvasz And Golden Retrievers

Floppy ears, a long coat, and luxurious hair are some of the main similarities between the Hungarian Kuvasz and the Golden Retriever.

Both of these canines have a sturdy stature, and are considered well-proportioned dogs, although their size isn’t comparable.

Another great trait that is found in both canines is their intelligence, followed by confidence, kindness, and loyalty to their owner and family.

They’re playful doggies that have high energy levels, so keep in mind that you should take them for walks every day and engage them in more outdoor activities.

Differences Between Kuvasz And Golden Retrievers

Even though these pups look quite similar to each other, especially when it comes to their facial features, there are plenty of differences between them as well.

First of all, Kuvasz dogs are much bigger than Goldens. They usually weigh over 130 pounds, and grow up to 30 inches.

Females are a bit smaller than their male counterparts, so don’t be surprised if your female Kuvasz doesn’t reach more than 95 lbs and 28 inches.

Although both pooches have double fur, the hair of a Kuvasz is coarser and wirier than the coat of a Golden Retriever.

Golden Retrievers usually have a flat coat, but that might not be the case with the Hungarian breed. Their fur might be wavy or even curly in certain cases, so don’t be surprised if your Kuvasz looks more like a giant Teddy bear.

9. Curly-Coated Retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever is a subspecies of Retriever that is distinguished by, as the name suggests, having a coat that is curlier or wavier than in other canines of this type.

Because of its nature, one could assume that it would be difficult to care for, but interestingly, its fur is water-resistant, which enables it to endure the effects of cold water, and it prevents filth from easily infiltrating it.

Similarities Between Curly-Coated Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

Just like other Retriever canines, these two breeds are gun canines, which is why they’re considered good hunting dogs, although they are nowadays more popular as family pets.

Curly-Coats are slightly bigger than Golden Retrievers, but they generally have almost the same weight of up to 80 lbs.

These two breeds require more regular grooming sessions, especially when it comes to brushing their fur and bathing them.

It’s recommended to bathe both Golden and Curly-Coated Retrievers at least every three weeks in order to wash out all the dirt and dander that might be entangled in their fur.

They’re smart, loyal, and easily trainable dogs that will never betray their owner.

Differences Between Curly-Coated Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

Both canine types have a double coat, but the form of the fur is quite different as Goldens usually have more straight hair, while Curly-Coats are curly, as the name says.

This isn’t the only difference in the coats between these two breeds. While Goldens usually have lighter shades of fur, Curly-Coated Retrievers are covered in liver or black hues.

Curlies are more independent than Golden Retrievers, so you don’t have to fear that they will develop separation anxiety, but I still wouldn’t advise you to leave them alone in the house for a long time.

When it comes to barking, this type of canine is closer to German Shepherds, Border Collies, and other more vocal breeds than Golden Retrievers.

10. Newfoundland

This is a big canine that is known as one of the best dogs of working breeds because of its stocky physique, dense coat, and instinctive ability to swim.

It is a dog of Canadian origin that was raised in a cold climate. They were bred to endure the coldest weather, which is partly a reason why they’re equipped with a thick coat.

Similarities Between Newfoundlands And Golden Retrievers

You can get each of these canines for almost the same price as they usually cost between $1400 and $2000, depending on their bloodline, gender, location, etc.

Both dog breeds sport thick and luxurious fur, with lots of fluff that makes them look adorable, although they’re quite large pups.

Newfoundlands are obedient, loyal, cheerful, and social doggies, just like Golden Retrievers, but most importantly, they’re smart and able to follow commands without any problem.

Owners of both dog types usually say that these two breeds love to act as lap dogs occasionally, so don’t be surprised if your pet sits on you as soon as you reach the sofa.

Differences Between Newfoundlands And Golden Retrievers

The muzzle is probably one of the first differences that most people notice between these two pooches, along with their size, which is incomparable.

Although they have similar nose shapes, Newfoundlands have floppier cheeks.

When it comes to their size, Newfoundlands are significantly larger than Golden Retrievers, so don’t be surprised if your Newfie grows up to 29 inches, and reaches an impressive 140 lbs.

However, if you’d like a Newfie more than a Golden, but smaller in size, you can go for a female Newfoundland that doesn’t cross over 27 inches and 110 lbs.

Coat shades of Newfies are more versatile than the ones of Golden Retrievers as they come in black, white, gray, and brown colors.

Giant breeds generally have a shorter life expectancy, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that the Newfoundland’s lifespan is up to ten years, while Golden Retrievers usually live up to 13 years or longer if they don’t have any significant health problems.

Smaller Breeds Of Dogs That Look Like Golden Retrievers

1. Cocker Spaniel

This is one of the medium-sized canines that share a certain set of physical and personality traits with Golden Retrievers.

They both have floppy ears and a long-haired coat that is silky and shiny, which makes their appearance even cuter.

Cocker Spaniels are no less intelligent than Goldens, which makes them a great breed to train.

Cocker Spaniels shed in a similar amount as Retrievers, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that they need to be frequently groomed.

Although they’re not hypoallergenic, these doggies are great family pets, just like Goldies, as they’re great with kids.

Therefore, if you’re searching for dogs that look like a Golden Retriever, but are smaller in size, then Cocker Spaniels will be among the best choice.

2. Mini Golden Retriever

This dog breed doesn’t require much explaining as they’re pretty much nothing less than a smaller version of a Golden Retriever.

These canines are as sociable and affectionate as their bigger canine siblings, but they do not need the same amount of room.

Because of this, they are an excellent option for families that reside in houses or flats with less space.

They are also less inclined to break things, which makes these pups less of a hazard around the house.

Even though they are smaller than standard Golden Retrievers, miniature versions, nevertheless, require a great deal of physical activity.

It is crucial to your pet’s happiness and health that it has playtime and walks on a daily basis.

3. Beagle

Although this isn’t a small dog, it is smaller in size than a Golden Retriever, which is why they’re on this list.

Beagles are excellent hunting dogs that have become great family dogs not only in the United States, but in the whole world, just like Golden Retrievers.

Beagles don’t require high maintenance like Goldies, but they do need to be brushed at least three to four times a week.

They are just as loving, sweet, and affectionate as Golden Retrievers, and they don’t require too much hard work during training.

Beagles love to play and spend time outside. However, they bark a lot, so they should go through intensive socialization training during early puppyhood.

Generally, Beagles have a higher chance of living longer than Goldens, but the average lifespan of about 12 to 13 years can be applied to both breeds.

4. English Springer Spaniel

The main characteristic that connects these pups to Golden Retrievers is the fact that they both belong to the gun type of dog.

However, even though they were used for hunting in the past, these two breeds became good family dogs, which is essentially their main purpose nowadays.

Although they don’t share the same size or coat shades as Golden Retrievers, their fur is quite similar as they’re covered in a long-haired, straight-to-wavy coat in different shades (white, black, liver, and tan with spots and markings).

Both of these canine breeds shed in moderate amounts, but that doesn’t mean that your carpets and sofa won’t be covered in loose hair. However, you can prevent that with regular brushing.

When it comes to their personalities, Golden Retrievers and English Springer Spaniels have a lot in common. They are kind, cheerful, and friendly types of pups, although Springers are much more alert than Goldens.

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The third Spaniel is a charm, and considering that it’s a King Charles Spaniel, it indeed is a charm.

Cavs are known as companion dogs, and even though Golden Retrievers are categorized as gun canines, they could be called companion pups as well.

Cavaliers come as toy pooches as well, so they’re suitable for families that would love to own a pet similar to a Golden Retriever, but a much smaller one.

High activity levels, friendliness, politeness, and a graceful appearance are just some of the traits that relate Cavalier King Charles Spaniels to Golden Retrievers.

All of these characteristics make both dog breeds easily trainable and suitable even for families with small children.

However, keep in mind that Cavs won’t be as welcoming to guests as Golden Retrievers because they don’t like anything that breaks their daily routines.

6. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, sometimes known as a “Toller” by its dedicated owner, is the tiniest of all the Retriever breeds.

This pup was used to both lure and catch waterfowl, which was the main purpose of their breeding.

Tollers have a fierce spirit similar to that of their miniature relative, the Cocker Spaniel, despite the fact that this type is sometimes misidentified as a smaller version of the Golden Retriever.

But, don’t allow their small stature to deceive you; these canines are tough and athletic, capable of performing their duties for the entirety of the day in challenging environments and cold seas.

They are just as smart as Golden Retrievers, and their nature makes them simple to instruct.

When it comes to their physical appearance, Tollers are definitely smaller than Golden Retrievers, and they don’t have the same coat shades.

On the other hand, their grooming needs are quite similar as they both have a double coat.

Wrapping Up

There are plenty of options for those who are looking for dogs that look like a Golden Retriever.

Some of the dog breeds from our list might have come as a surprise, but I’m sure you’re able to find similarities between a Golden pup and any of the pup types mentioned in this article.

Of course, there is a great number of Golden Retriever mixes that look just like their parent breed, such as Goldendoodles, but we decided to exclude them from this list as their resemblance to Goldens is a result of the genes that the pups directly inherit from their parent canine.

The canines on this list might not look exactly the same as a Golden Retriever, but they do possess physical and mental traits that are fairly similar to this adorable canine breed.