English vs American Golden Retriever: Differences

Key Points:

English golden retrievers were bred to have white or cream colored fur, and generally weigh five pounds more than American golden retrievers. The American golden retriever has red or honey yellow hair.
In behavior, both breeds are very friendly and easy to train. The English golden retriever has a more laid back temperament, whereas the American golden retriever has lots more energy and can have separation anxiety.

Did you know that there are two different types of golden retriever: the English vs American golden retriever? What separates these two dog breeds from one another, and how can you learn to tell the differences between them upon first glance?

In this blog, we will compare and contrast all of the differences between English and American golden retrievers, including their physical descriptions so that you can tell them apart at first glance. We will also address their behavioral differences, their sizes, Let’s get started and learn about golden retrievers now!

English vs American Golden Retriever - Comparing

English Golden Retrievers

Size - 45-70 pounds, 20-24 inches tall
Appearance - Wavy and silky coat in a light cream or white color only, their coat is a bit shorter compared to their American counterparts
Originally Bred For - Specifically bred for their white light cream colored fur, but still a capable hunting dog
Behavior - More laid back than their American counterparts; easy to train and very friendly. Still sheds just as much

American Golden Retriever

Size - 45-70 pounds, 20-24 inches tall
Appearance - Shiny and long silky coat in a yellow, red, or blonde shade, floppy ears and luxurious fur
Originally Bred For - Gun and hunting dog activities such as waterfowl retrieval
Behavior - Incredibly friendly and playful, needs an abundance of exercise and sheds frequently

English vs American Golden Retriever - Fur & Size

There are many key differences between English and American golden retrievers. For example, American golden retrievers are slightly larger than English golden retrievers. The coat of the English golden retriever is only found in cream or white colors, while the coat of the American golden retriever is often found in yellow or red.

While it is an extremely subtle distinction, there are some size differences between the average English golden retriever versus the average American golden retriever. While they are identical in height and overall frame size, American golden retrievers weigh up to 5 pounds more than the average English golden retriever. However, this is likely not a difference that you can tell just by looking at them.

English vs American Golden Retriever - Behavior

For whatever reason, there are some behavioral differences between an American golden retriever and an English golden retriever. Many dog experts and breeders agree that English golden retrievers are more laid-back than American golden retrievers overall. Both dog breeds are exceedingly friendly and loyal, and are very easy to train.

However, given the high energy of the American golden retriever, you may experience more separation anxiety or destruction compared to the English golden retriever. Both of these dogs shed an equal amount, despite the English golden retriever having a shorter coat than the American golden retriever as well.

English vs American Golden Retriever - Health and Longevity

English Golden Retrievers

Life Expectancy - 12-15 years
Cancer Rate in Breed - 30% Low

American Golden Retrievers

Life Expectancy - 9-10 years
Cancer Rate in Breed - 68% High

According to the Mercola video studies below of American golden retrievers will die from cancer, while less than 30% of European golden retrievers will die from cancer.

So finding a breeder that does health testing is key.