Goldens have a keen sense of smell and are highly adaptable. They have a loud bark but bark very infrequently. They need 40 to 60 minutes of intensive exercise daily. They are agile and obedient, making them ideal for dog training, dog sports, or other canine activities. They are generally very athletic and enjoy swimming. Retrievers enjoy being given specific tasks. They are used for drug detection, therapy, and assisting people with disabilities, among other things. They are also very talented at retrieving downed game for hunters. "Retriever" therefore means "collector" in Dutch.

A Golden Retriever sheds profusely, especially in the fall and spring. Brushing them daily will remove much of the loose hair from their coat. Golden Retrievers love to eat and can easily become overweight if overfed. Feed them measured portions at agreed-upon times to avoid health problems. This gentle golden family pet typically lives to be 12 to 13 years old.