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Love Goldens but hate the fur? Want Golden-level sweetness in a smaller package? We’ve sorted 60+ Golden Retriever mixes by allergy-friendliness, space needs, and energy level—so you can find your ideal match fast.
Table of Contents
Which Mix Fits You Best?
Whether you need low-shed, apartment-sized, kid-safe, or jogging-ready, the sections below spotlight top picks tailored to real-life needs. Scroll to find your perfect match.
Top Allergy-Friendly (Low-Shed)
Some folks adore dogs but can’t handle the clouds of fur or the itchy eyes. If you’re allergy-prone or simply hate vacuuming, these Golden mixes come with lower-shed coats and less dander.
- Goldendoodle: This mix of Golden Retriever and Poodle is a fan favorite for a reason. The poodle coat often reduces shedding dramatically, and their intelligence makes them highly trainable.
- Golden Pei: The Shar Pei mix brings a low-maintenance coat and a calm demeanor. They’re quieter than most and tend to be less reactive—great for close quarters.
- Golden Vizsla: With a short, sleek coat and athletic build, this mix keeps the fur fallout to a minimum while offering plenty of zest for active owners.
Quick Tip: No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. These breeds still shed dander but can better fit sneeze-sensitive households. Brush often + vacuum weekly for best results.
Best For Small Spaces
Big dogs aren’t always practical for apartment life. These breeds keep it compact without sacrificing personality.
- Golden Dox: With a Dachshund’s elongated body and a Retriever’s sunny disposition, this small-statured companion is curious and fun-loving.
- Golden Chi: A pocket-sized pooch with a bold streak, this mix can be feisty, cuddly, and perfect for urban living.
- Goldenshire: Combining Yorkshire Terrier sass with Golden loyalty, this tiny hybrid thrives on attention and packs a surprising vocal punch.
Giants With Golden Hearts
These oversized Golden mixes combine physical presence with a sweet, steady temperament. If you want a dog that doubles as a cuddle partner and gentle protector, these giants deliver.
- Golden Saint: Saint Bernard genes give this mix an ultra-tolerant, affectionate personality. Expect slobbery kisses and slow, happy tail wags.
- Golden Bullmastiff Retriever: The biggest of the bunch, this dog is a drooly mountain of love. Gentle, protective, and content to snooze through family chaos.
- Golden Pyre: Majestic and serene, this mix brings the calm confidence of a Great Pyrenees with the warmth of a Golden. A quiet guardian with a soft side.
High-Energy & Outdoorsy
Some dogs were born to run, and these Golden mixes are no exception. If your idea of fun involves trails, fetch marathons, or agility courses, these energetic blends will match your pace and enthusiasm.
- Golden Aussie: Smart, alert, and always ready to work, this cross thrives on mental challenges and high-octane play.
- Golden Husky: This snow-loving mix is bursting with stamina and independence. Expect double the shedding and triple the zoomies.
- Golden Shepherd: Loyal, protective, and powerful, this mix brings together two highly intelligent breeds that demand both structure and exercise.
Best For First-Time Dog Owners
If you’re new to dog ownership, some Golden mixes make the transition smoother. These hybrids are known for being trainable, intuitive, and less likely to overwhelm you with behavioral quirks or high-maintenance needs.
- Goldador: This dependable combo of Labrador and Golden is famously friendly, easy to train, and eager to make you look like a dog whisperer.
- Golden Cavvy: The Cavalier King Charles mix brings an affectionate, easygoing temperament in a manageable size. They’re social, low-drama, and great for novice owners.
- Golden Flatcoat: This blend leans toward mellow, with a happy-go-lucky vibe that’s ideal for relaxed homes and new routines.
Best For Families With Kids
The best Golden mixes for families are patient, playful, and sturdy enough to handle backyard zoomies, sticky fingers, and surprise hugs. These dogs tend to form strong bonds with little humans and thrive in lively households.
- Box Retriever: Equal parts goofball and guardian, this playful hybrid thrives on attention and will happily join every game of tag or fetch. Naturally affectionate and expressive.
- Golden Newfie: A true gentle giant, this mix loves nothing more than napping near your toddler or playing the role of four-legged babysitter. Calm and deeply affectionate.
- Golden Setter: Friendly and spirited, this mix brings energy and sweetness to family life. They bond quickly and love being in the middle of the action.
Rare & Unique Mixes
Some Golden mixes are so unexpected they’ll make you look twice. These rare hybrids offer unusual combinations of temperament and style—perfect if you want a pup that stands out at the dog park.
- Golden Inu: A cross with the elusive Shiba Inu, this mix is proud, independent, and stunningly photogenic. Don’t expect instant obedience, but do expect personality.
- Golden Ridgeback: Combining the strength and focus of a Rhodesian Ridgeback with Golden warmth, this loyal mix is equal parts athlete and cuddle bug.
- Golden Coonhound: Nose to the ground and heart on their sleeve, this hybrid is a soulful, baying companion that loves the outdoors and sticks to your side.
How To Pick The Right Golden Mix
Beyond looks and fluff, choosing the right Golden mix comes down to lifestyle, health expectations, and grooming needs. This next section gives you the tools to make a smart, heart-led choice.
Health Watch: What Science Tells Us
- Golden Retrievers have notable health risks. A 12-year longitudinal study has revealed that three of every four documented Golden deaths are linked to cancer.
- Genetic disorder advantage exists. Purebreds had a higher risk of some hereditary diseases and tend to have decreased lifespans compared to cross-breed and mixed breeds (mutts).
- Mixed-breed dogs aren’t inherently healthier. Designer mixes like Goldendoodles showed similar health outcomes to those of their purebred parents in 86.6% of the conditions studied.
- Purebreds don’t always fare worse. A Dog Aging Project study across 27,000+ dogs found mixed- and purebred dogs equally likely to suffer common vet diagnoses.
What This Means For You
- Pick your cross-breed intentionally—coat, size, energy, and health history of the parent breeds matter.
- Look for breeders or rescues who health-test their dogs.
- Preventive care, exercise, and diet shape health—more than breed alone does.
Grooming & Maintenance Basics
Whether your Golden mix is a fluffy cloud or a short-coated runner, grooming needs vary wildly. Some need trims, others just a quick brush, but all benefit from regular maintenance. Here’s how coat types impact your time with the brush and vacuum.
| Coat Type | Grooming Needs | Shedding Level |
|---|---|---|
| Curly | Trim every 8 weeks, brush weekly | Low |
| Wavy | Brush 2–3×/week | Moderate |
| Straight | Daily brushing in shed season | High |
Breeder & Adoption Tips
Not all breeders—or rescues—are created equal. Choosing the right one can mean the difference between a healthy pup and a heartbreaking vet bill.
Here’s what to look for, ask, and avoid when searching for your Golden mix.
- Ask for health testing (hips, eyes, cardiac)
- Visit parents if possible
- Prioritize temperament over trends
- Consider mixed-breed rescues
- Ask about coat type if allergies matter
Full List Of Golden Retriever Mixes
From pint-sized couch cuddlers to oversized hiking buddies, this is your complete guide to Golden Retriever hybrids. Whether you’re deep in research or just here for cute dog pics, scroll through to discover each mix’s quirks, charm, and care needs.
Popular Golden Mixes
These headline-making mixes are beloved for a reason. They combine the Golden’s sweetness with other crowd-pleasing traits, like smarts, energy, or low-shed coats. If you’re just starting your search, these are the gateway dogs.
Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever × Poodle)
Highly intelligent and low-shedding, the Goldendoodle combines Golden sweetness with Poodle smarts. They also come in a smaller toy-sized version.
These dogs thrive in social settings and are ideal for allergy-sensitive households. Great for first-time owners and families alike.
Goldador (Golden Retriever × Labrador Retriever)
Friendly, trainable, and endlessly loyal—Goldadors are easygoing superstars. They’re eager to please, love fetch, and are often used as service or therapy dogs.
These large, athletic dogs thrive in homes with plenty of outdoor space. Goldadors are generally healthy with a lifespan of up to 15 years, though both parent breeds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so reputable breeders should provide health clearances.
Golden Shepherd (Golden Retriever × German Shepherd)
A brainy, devoted protector. This mix combines the intelligence and discipline of a Shepherd with the warmth of a Golden. These dogs need structure and plenty of exercise.
With a double coat, expect heavy shedding and two blowout seasons each year. Lifespan ranges from 10–14 years, and potential health concerns include hip dysplasia, digestive issues, and Von Willebrand’s disease.
Golden Husky (Golden Retriever × Siberian Husky)
Double the fluff and energy, this mix is a stunning, spirited handful. They crave activity and independence and love winter weather—not ideal for couch potatoes.
Golden Huskies are not beginner dogs. Their double coat sheds year-round and explodes during spring and fall. Lifespan is around 13–14 years, and like both parents, they may be at risk for hip issues.
Low-Shed Or Allergy-Friendly Breeds
Do you love dogs but hate fur tumbleweeds? These mixes tend to shed less and may be easier on allergy-prone households. While no pup is truly hypoallergenic, these come pretty close with the proper grooming routine.
Golden Pei (Golden Retriever × Shar Pei)
A chill dog with a velvet touch. Golden Peis blend the Shar Pei’s stoicism with the Retriever’s warmth. Expect a low-shedding coat that’s smoother than it looks, but keep those facial wrinkles clean if they show up.
They’re calm, loyal, and dignified, with just enough mischief to keep you guessing. A bit strong-willed? Sure. But with early training and patience, they become devoted family companions, especially in quieter homes.
Golden Vizsla (Golden Retriever × Vizsla)
Meet your golden-haired jogging partner. This athletic mix is sleek, low-shedding, and always ready to hit the trail or lake. They’re high-energy but surprisingly good at adapting to apartment life with enough exercise.
Golden Vizslas are people-focused and affectionate but can be independent thinkers. Keep training firm but fun, and you’ll earn their loyalty. An excellent pick for sporty households or hunting enthusiasts.
Golden Schnauzer (Golden Retriever × Standard Schnauzer)
Think: Golden Retriever in a tuxedo. This bearded gentleman mixes smarts with sass and doesn’t shed much. They’re alert, loyal, and love a good challenge—mental or physical.
Just don’t expect silence. Golden Schnauzers have Opinions™ and aren’t shy about sharing them. With proper stimulation and firm boundaries, they’re hilarious, affectionate sidekicks with a bold streak.
Golden Water Dog (Golden Retriever × Portuguese Water Dog)
If your dream dog surfs, swims, and snuggles, this is it. Golden Water Dogs are bright, adventurous, and moderately low-shed. Regular brushing and water play are non-negotiable.
Their curly coats can mat if ignored, but it’s worth it for that teddy bear look. These pups love being near their people and need both exercise and affection to stay happy.
Golden Wheaten (Golden Retriever × Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier)
A cloud with legs and a heart of gold. Golden Wheatens are affectionate, playful, and practically glow with positive energy. They don’t shed much, but they do bounce—and dig—if bored.
They’re beginner-friendly and respond well to training, though that terrier streak may occasionally pop out. With regular brushing and a daily walk (or romp), this pup makes a loyal, low-fuss companion.
Small But Mighty (Compact Mixes)
Big personalities in small packages. These petite Golden mixes bring sass, smarts, and snuggles without demanding a backyard or sprawling sofa. Perfect for apartment dwellers and city lifestyles.
Golden Chi (Golden Retriever × Chihuahua)
Small in size, big in attitude. The Golden Chi blends the sass of a Chihuahua with the sweetness of a Golden.
They’re compact, clever, and full of spunk—perfect for city dwellers who want personality in a small package.
Though usually under 30 pounds, these pups are bold and often look more like their Chihuahua parent. They’re loyal, long-lived, and do well in apartments as long as they get daily attention and structure.
Goldenshire (Golden Retriever × Yorkshire Terrier)
Tiny but tenacious, the Goldenshire mixes Golden friendliness with Yorkie flair. Expect a silky, high-maintenance coat and a whole lot of personality packed into a small body.
They can be barky and a little bossy if not trained, but they’re intelligent and intensely loyal. Best for small dog lovers who don’t mind a bit of grooming and want a big personality in a fun-sized frame.
Golden Dox (Golden Retriever × Dachshund)
Stretchy, scruffy, and full of mischief. The Golden Dox combines Golden charm with Dachshund curiosity. They’re affectionate and playful, but don’t let those puppy-dog eyes fool you; they can be stubborn.
Keep them busy with toys and activities, or they might dig through your backyard or shoe collection. They’re fun family companions, especially for homes with consistency and stimulation.
Goldenjack (Golden Retriever × Jack Russell Terrier)
Energy. For. Days. Goldenjacks are small, bold, and endlessly entertaining. They love to play, chase, dig, and bark—but with training, they’re surprisingly obedient and deeply affectionate.
They shed a bit, yap a bit, and charm a lot. If you’ve got an active household and a sense of humor, this might be your perfect pocket-sized chaos agent.
Golden Cavvy (Golden Retriever × Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)
Affection in dog form. Golden Cavvies are sweet, cuddly, and great with kids—ideal for families or older adults who want companionship with moderate energy.
They’re prone to separation anxiety, so they’re best for folks who are home often. Gentle, trainable, and loving, these dogs thrive on attention and return it tenfold.
Golden Corgi (Golden Retriever × Corgi)
The Golden Corgi might be your dream mix if you love the Golden personality but want less bulk. Think: herding dog meets happy-go-lucky retriever.
They tend to be playful and social, with enough independence to keep things interesting. Expect some shedding, a long back, and a dog who’s just as happy cuddling as chasing squirrels.
Giants Or Guardian Mixes
These super-sized stunners bring muscle, mass, and mellow loyalty. Most need space, both for their bones and their booming bark. Think family protector meets oversized cuddle monster.
Alaskan Goldenmute (Golden Retriever × Alaskan Malamute)
The Alaskan Goldenmute is a snow-dusted powerhouse of fluff, strength, and stamina. Tipping the scales at around 90 pounds, this mix blends the work ethic of a Malamute with the social charm of a Golden.
You’ll need space—indoors and out—and a serious vacuum because these double-coated beasts shed like it’s their job. They’re best for families who thrive outdoors and don’t mind a bit of mud or fur in their lives.
While friendly, they’re not pushovers. Expect a mix of loyalty and independence, with a strong dash of stubborn streak on cold mornings.
Golden Mountain Mix (Golden Retriever × Bernese Mountain Dog)
The Golden Mountain Mix is a gentle giant built for love, loyalty, and long naps in the yard. Weighing up to 110 pounds, these majestic mixes bring the Golden’s eager-to-please heart into the solid frame of a Bernese Mountain Dog.
They’re sweet-natured and incredibly devoted to their families, often acting more like living teddy bears than watchdogs.
Their exercise needs are moderate, and they thrive in spacious homes with room to stretch and lounge. Grooming is a must. Their thick, lush coats shed heavily year-round.
Golden Bullmastiff Retriever (Golden Retriever × Bullmastiff)
Imagine a soft-hearted security guard in a 130-pound dog suit—that’s the Golden Bullmastiff Retriever. Equal parts gentle and protective, this bulky mix is a mellow, couch-loving companion with a natural guard dog instinct.
While not hyperactive, they need room to move and prefer lounging in large, open homes with people they trust. They’re incredibly affectionate with family but may be wary of strangers, especially without proper socialization.
Their short coats shed moderately, and yes, they drool. But their loyalty is unmatched. If you’re seeking a slow-paced, low-maintenance (aside from the size) giant with a heart of gold, this one fits the bill.
Golden Newfie (Golden Retriever × Newfoundland)
Equal parts giant and gentle, the Golden Newfie is a fluffy, slow-moving sweetheart. With their mellow energy and love for people, they’re like living teddy bears for anyone with the square footage.
Tipping the scales at 80–100+ pounds, they need plenty of space and regular brushing to manage their dense coats. They’re wonderful with kids and pets and often more relaxed than a pure Golden.
Goldenpyre (Golden Retriever × Great Pyrenees)
The Goldenpyre is a blend of sociability and stoicism. While the Pyrenees brings a watchful, independent streak, the Golden side keeps things warm and family-friendly.
These dogs are hefty (often 90+ pounds), need daily brushing, and do best with a fenced yard. Stubborn? Yes. But they’re loyal, sweet, and calm when properly trained.
Great Golden Dane (Golden Retriever × Great Dane)
Big dog lovers, meet your dream. The Great Golden Dane is towering, affectionate, and graceful—for a 150+ pound couch hog, anyway.
They’re people-pleasers with goofy charm and a protective edge. Expect a shorter life span (8–10 years) and be ready to dodge drool. Best for homes with experience and reinforced furniture.
Saint Bernard Retriever (Golden Retriever × Saint Bernard)
Big, fluffy, and full of love, the Saint Bernard Retriever is equal parts drool and devotion. They shed and slobber, but they snuggle like pros.
Active as puppies, these giants mellow into calm, loyal companions. They need brushing, some room to stretch out, and a family that appreciates both their heart and heft.
English Goldstiff (Golden Retriever × English Mastiff)
This golden-giant hybrid is all heart and heft. English Goldstiffs are big-boned cuddlebugs who guard with quiet confidence. Less energetic than your average Golden, but still up for a good trot around the yard.
Weighing up to 120+ pounds, they need space, structure, and early socialization to thrive. Great with kids, a bit wary of strangers, and deeply devoted to their humans.
Golden Corso (Golden Retriever × Cane Corso)
The Golden Corso is sweet at home and serious in public. This mix combines Golden friendliness with the Cane Corso’s protective nature, making for a bold but loving companion.
They’re strong-willed and best for experienced owners. With the proper socialization, they’re fantastic with kids and other pets. Expect 75–90 pounds of muscle and short, double-coated fur.
Golden Chow Retriever (Golden Retriever × Chow Chow)
The Golden Chow Retriever combines aloof elegance with that classic Golden warmth—but don’t expect an eager-to-please personality here. This mix leans independent and sometimes downright stubborn, thanks to its Chow lineage.
They tend to be calm and laid-back, making them ideal for homes with a slower pace and owners who appreciate a more “dignified” dog.
These dogs are stunning, fluffy, and high-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their thick coats shed year-round and explode during seasonal changes.
While they’re not high-energy, they do need regular walks and mental stimulation. Perfect for experienced owners who want a low-key companion with a regal streak.
Goldenbull (Golden Retriever × American Pit Bull Terrier)
Active and affectionate, the Goldenbull brings athleticism and attitude. They’re friendly, alert, and need plenty of exercise to stay sane.
With consistent training, they shine as family dogs. Expect 45–65 pounds of compact power and a shorter coat that’s easy to manage.
Goldenkita (Golden Retriever × Akita)
Built like a linebacker and weighing up to 100 pounds, this hybrid brings the independence of the Akita together with the sociability of a Golden Retriever. The result? A serious, focused guardian who adores their people, but won’t tolerate nonsense.
They’re not the best choice for first-time dog owners. Training needs to be firm, fair, and consistent, and they need space to roam and burn energy.
Their double coats require regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons. If you’re up for the challenge, the Goldenkita is a noble, devoted protector with a soft spot for family.
Goldenweiler (Golden Retriever × Rottweiler)
This protective powerhouse blends the Rottweiler’s loyalty with the Golden’s sociability. Goldenweilers are sturdy, sweet, and a bit more reserved than your average Retriever.
They’re great with families and can top 100 pounds. Brush regularly, train early, and enjoy having your own personal bodyguard in fur form.
Golden Dobie (Golden Retriever × Doberman Pinscher)
With the Doberman’s instinct to protect and the Golden’s people-loving charm, this mix is equal parts guardian and cuddle buddy. Weighing between 60 and 85 pounds, they’re athletic, muscular, and always alert.
Training is a must, and early socialization is key. They’re incredibly intelligent and responsive, but that brain needs a job.
They do well with active families who want a dog who can jog, learn tricks, and snuggle on the couch. The Golden Dobie’s got your back if you’re looking for a dog that will make you feel safe and loved.
Golden Greater Swissy (Golden Retriever × Greater Swiss Mountain Dog)
The Swissy mix brings striking tricolor markings and working-dog drive. Big and brawny, this pup thrives on tasks—hauling carts, chasing balls, or making new friends at the park.
They need at least an hour of daily activity and consistent training. With the right outlet, they’re wonderful with kids and look like teddy bears come to life.
Goldentolian (Golden Retriever × Anatolian Shepherd)
Independent and imposing, the Goldentolian is the ultimate low-maintenance guardian. They’re not clingy; they enjoy space but are fiercely loyal when it counts.
At 70–125 pounds, they need a secure yard and an owner who respects their intelligence and stubborn streak. Not for beginners, but definitely unforgettable.
High-Energy & Working Mixes
Need a jogging partner? A hiking buddy? A dog who can outthink you and still want more? These hybrids bring working dog drive and Retriever charm into one energetic package. Be warned: naps are optional.
Golden Aussie (Golden Retriever × Australian Shepherd)
This intelligent livewire combines two Velcro breeds that want to be wherever you are—preferably on a trail run. Golden Aussies are loving, eager, and pack an energy punch.
They shed moderately and need daily brushing, along with 45–60 minutes of exercise to stay sane. Expect clinginess, a bit of herding, and unconditional love.
Golden Heeler (Golden Retriever × Blue Heeler)
A stocky shepherding mix with stamina for days, the Golden Heeler loves a task. These pups inherit drive, smarts, and a hint of mischief from their Heeler parent.
They can weigh up to 75 pounds and shed consistently. Mental stimulation and chew toys are a must, or your furniture pays the price. Social and loving, but be ready to redirect those heel-nips.
Golden Malinois (Golden Retriever × Belgian Malinois)
A rocket in a Retriever coat. The Golden Malinois is a bold, brilliant dog with endless energy and a strong need to work. Great for handlers, tough for first-timers.
They’re usually under 65 pounds, have dense coats, and demand both structure and daily physical challenge. Train early, socialize well, and expect an intense but loyal sidekick.
Golden Ridgeback (Golden Retriever × Rhodesian Ridgeback)
Bold and brainy with a serious bark, the Golden Ridgeback is a calm but confident protector. This pup blends the Ridgeback’s lion-hunting legacy with a Golden’s family-first heart.
Expect 70–80 pounds of power and moderate grooming. They mellow with age, but their independence means they’re better for experienced owners.
Golden Catahoula (Golden Retriever × Catahoula Leopard Dog)
The Golden Catahoula is a bundle of determination. Unique in looks and temperament, this working-sporting hybrid thrives with space and structure.
They typically weigh 60–70 pounds and are incredibly active. Their personality is spirited, curious, and affectionate when socialized early. An excellent choice for adventurous families.
Golden Pointer (Golden Retriever × Pointer)
If you love the outdoors, this is your dog. Golden Pointers are built for movement and excel in sports, hunting, and games. Friendly and alert, they also thrive on human interaction.
They shed year-round and need frequent brushing. These dogs require 90 minutes of daily activity—minimum. Great with kids, but not couch potatoes.
Golden Shorthaired Pointer (Golden Retriever × German Shorthaired Pointer)
Bird dog brilliance meets Retriever sweetness. This pup is all about play, prey, and praise. They’re obedient, eager to please, and sharp as a tack.
They have short, sleek coats and weigh up to 70 pounds. Their prey drive is strong, so off-leash time should be strategic. One hour of daily exercise keeps them focused and happy.
Golden Setter (Golden Retriever × English Setter)
Think regal meets ridiculous. The Golden Setter is all flowy fur, heart-melting eyes, and playful charm. They’re athletic, enthusiastic, and love to chase anything that flaps.
This mix is energetic, affectionate, and thrives on companionship. Daily brushing is essential, and they need 60+ minutes of fun, active play daily. Warning: may out-fetch your arm.
Golden Flatcoat (Golden Retriever × Flat-Coated Retriever)
The ultimate retriever party animal. These dogs live to chase, splash, and charm. Their constant optimism is contagious—and exhausting—if you’re not ready to keep up.
They weigh 60–70 pounds and need consistent grooming for their crimped, shiny coat. Expect a dog who says yes to everything: water, walks, games, strangers.
Golden Sheepdog (Golden Retriever × Old English Sheepdog)
A shaggy, happy goofball with a protector’s instinct, the Golden Sheepdog is intelligent, social, and a little bossy. They’re large and love to patrol their territory.
Grooming is non-negotiable, especially with their heavy coat. They thrive on structure, early socialization, and about 45 minutes of daily activity. Loving and loyal, with a hint of mischief.
Golden Irish (Golden Retriever × Irish Setter)
Fiery red coat, golden heart. The Golden Irish is energetic, affectionate, and often mistaken for a rare Golden variety. These dogs love to move and will keep you on your toes.
They grow up to 70 pounds and demand at least an hour of daily activity—plus mental stimulation. Easygoing but stubborn, they train best with consistency and positive reinforcement.
Golden Collie (Golden Retriever × Border Collie)
An overachiever with a heart of gold. These dogs are whip-smart, loyal, and need a job—or at least a puzzle toy. Best for experienced or active owners.
Golden Collies are medium-sized with flowing coats, expressive eyes, and boundless energy. Left alone for too long, they may become anxious or destructive. Keep them mentally and physically challenged to prevent boredom.
Classic Companion Types
Easygoing, people-focused, and generally drama-free—these are your loyal couch buddies and weekend warriors. They’re neither too rare nor too high-maintenance, making them the “Goldilocks” zone of Golden mixes.
Box Retriever (Golden Retriever × Boxer)
Equal parts athlete and goofball, the Box Retriever is a muscular, medium-to-large dog that lives for family time. These pups are affectionate, high-spirited, and excellent with kids.
They shed year-round and need regular brushing, especially in spring and fall. Expect a double coat, and a double helping of energy. If they take after their Boxer side, they may be stubborn—so a confident owner is best.
Beago (Golden Retriever × Beagle)
A pint-sized hunting buddy or a gentle family pet, the Beago brings curiosity and charm in equal measure. Thanks to their Beagle nose and independent streak, they’re easy to love but not always easy to train.
They need moderate exercise and a secure yard. Beagos are social, spunky, and often great with kids and other animals. Just don’t trust them off-leash unless you’re ready to chase.
Golden Hound (Golden Retriever × Basset Hound)
This mellow hound mix is a laid-back sweetheart with a nose for fun. Golden Hounds are great with families and other pets, and their low-to-the-ground frame adds to their charm.
Training can be tricky if they lean hound, but their affable nature makes up for it. Moderate exercise and weekly brushing will keep them happy and healthy.
Golden Sheltie (Golden Retriever × Shetland Sheepdog)
The Golden Sheltie blends the sunny nature of a Golden Retriever with the brains and fluff of a Shetland Sheepdog. These medium-sized pups usually weigh between 35 and 50 pounds and wear thick coats that practically demand a grooming brush.
They’re affectionate to the core; expect them to follow you like a second shadow and sneak into the middle of the bed every chance they get.
While their Sheltie side may bring out some herding instincts (especially around small kids or pets), they’re easily trained thanks to their sharp minds and eagerness to please. These playful companions need around 45 minutes of exercise daily and thrive in active, engaged households.
Goldenhound (Golden Retriever × Bloodhound)
Part cuddlebug, part scent hound, the Goldenhound has a nose that doesn’t quit and a heart that loves deeply. They’re sweet, loyal, and incredibly good-natured.
They shed moderately, drool a bit, and need about an hour of exercise daily. Many Goldenhounds sport a deeper reddy golden color thanks to the mix of their parent’s colors.
Golden Chessy (Golden Retriever × Chesapeake Bay Retriever)
Water, fetch, repeat. The Golden Chessy is a rugged retriever with brains, brawn, and a splash of stubborn. They’re a dream for active families who live near lakes or love weekend hikes.
Their coat is dense, curly, and sheds like crazy—so grooming isn’t optional. These dogs need purpose, training, and someone who appreciates their hardworking spirit.
Spangold Retriever (Golden Retriever × English Springer Spaniel)
Smart, social, and always down for an adventure, the Spangold Retriever is a lively sidekick. They’re easy to train, love the outdoors, and bond closely with their families.
Medium-sized with moderate grooming needs, they thrive with regular activity and mental stimulation. Ideal for homes with yards—and people who never sit still for long.
Rare Or Unusual Golden Hybrids
You won’t see these at every dog park. These unexpected crosses offer standout looks and unique temperaments. For those who like their dogs a little off the beaten path.
Afghan Retriever (Golden Retriever × Afghan Hound)
Graceful, silky, and undeniably exotic, the Afghan Retriever is the fashion model of Golden mixes. Picture long legs, flowing hair, and a gaze that says, “I’m too pretty for mud puddles.”
They’re tall (up to 29 inches) and sleek, with coats that require consistent grooming. But that effort is worth it for a dog resembling a walking oil painting. Despite their posh appearance, they’re energetic, love hunting, and make surprisingly grounded family pets.
Golden Coonhound (Golden Retriever × Coonhound)
The Golden Coonhound pairs the laid-back warmth of a Golden Retriever with the nose-driven intensity of a Coonhound. This large, athletic mix often weighs between 60 and 90 pounds and sports a short, sleek coat—usually a deep golden hue with hound-style “pumpkinseed” markings above the eyes.
They need at least an hour of vigorous exercise a day and a securely fenced yard, or you’ll lose them to the wind the moment their nose hits something interesting. At home, though, they’re mellow couch companions with a goofy charm and a soft spot for belly rubs.
Golden Inu (Golden Retriever × Shiba Inu)
A rare mix with serious charisma. The Golden Inu blends the bold spirit of the Shiba with the Golden’s softness, creating a loyal, quirky, and alert companion.
Looks vary, but most wear golden coats with Shiba-esque features like pointed ears or a curled tail. They’re independent yet loyal, making them great dogs for people who like a side of sass with their sweetness.
Golden Greyhound (Golden Retriever × Greyhound)
Built for speed and bred for snuggles, the Golden Greyhound is equal parts athlete and lap dog. They crave human attention and will try to melt into your lap at every opportunity—even if they weigh 70 pounds.
Shorter coats, minimal shedding, and frequent zoomies are par for the course. Their prey drive can be strong, so leash walks are a must. But their temperament? All heart.
Goldenoyed (Golden Retriever × Samoyed)
Fluffy, fabulous, and photogenic—the Goldenoyed turns heads and steals hearts.
They’re friendly, intelligent, and sociable but also high-maintenance in grooming. If you can handle the fur and don’t mind a dog that gets noticed, the Goldenoyed is your perfect co-pilot.
Goldendale (Golden Retriever × Airedale Terrier)
This scruffy superstar is bursting with energy and personality. The Goldendale mixes the do-it-all Airedale with the classic Golden, resulting in a pup that’s athletic, trainable, and a little cheeky.
They thrive on agility courses and backyard obstacle races. Expect bold eyes, a wavy dark coat, and a “let’s go!” attitude 24/7.
Golden Staffy (Golden Retriever × Staffordshire Terrier)
Equal parts muscle and mush, the Golden Staffy is a goofy, loving, and fiercely loyal family member. They’re people-pleasers with an affectionate streak and enough energy to power a small village.
They do best with consistent training and early socialization. Some states restrict Staffy mixes, so check your local laws before falling in love.
Goldmaraner (Golden Retriever × Weimaraner)
If you’re into long walks, high-energy hikes, and maybe some amateur scent work, the Goldmaraner is your match. These athletic dogs are full of stamina and love to be included in everything.
They shed a bit and thrive on routine. Without enough activity, expect shredded couch cushions. With it? One of the most loyal dogs you’ll ever meet.
Golden Bully (Golden Retriever × American Bulldog)
The Golden Bully is a stout-hearted sweetheart with loads of charm. Equal parts protector and cuddle bug, they thrive in active homes that give them purpose.
They top out around 70 pounds, shed moderately, and need regular exercise. They can be wary of strangers but are deeply devoted to their humans.
Goldenplott (Golden Retriever × Plott Hound)
Rare and rugged, the Goldenplott is an under-the-radar gem. They’re tireless outdoors, sniffing out trails and chasing scents. Indoors, they’re gentle pups who love curling up at your feet.
Expect an athletic build, short to medium coat, and high exercise needs—think 90 minutes daily. They’re smart, driven, and surprisingly mellow once their energy is spent.
Goldmation (Golden Retriever × Dalmatian)
The Goldmation is a total head-turner with its unique blend of Dalmatian spots and that signature golden coat. These medium to large-sized pups usually weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and bring an alert, protective nature to the table—making them as much watchdog as playmate.
Energetic and expressive, the Goldmation thrives on daily exercise and mental stimulation. They’re bright and eager to please, but if the Dalmatian genes take the wheel, expect a streak of independence.
Their coats are usually short but thick, and while not extreme shedders, they do benefit from regular brushing. With early socialization and consistent training, the Goldmation makes a memorable, one-of-a-kind companion.
Ready To Find Your Perfect Pup Match?
Whether you’re into quirky hybrids or loyal classics, Golden Retrievers are a wonderful choice for a family pet. Are you ready for your new pup? Make sure you’re prepared with a Golden Retriever-sized crate and toys before you bring your pup home.
