All about Soft Coated Golden dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Soft Coated Golden" Breed (parent breeds: "Golden Retriever" × "Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier")The Soft Coated Golden, a delightful cross between the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, offers a wonderful blend of their best traits. Originating as a designer breed, they typically possess the Golden's friendly, loyal, and intelligent nature combined with the Wheaten's playful, spirited, and often less-shedding coat. Physically, expect a medium-sized dog with a soft, wavy to curly coat that can range in color from golden to wheaten hues. Their temperament makes them excellent family dogs, generally good with children and other pets, though early socialization is always beneficial. While adaptable, they thrive with active families and do best with a fenced yard, though they can adjust to apartment living with sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation. Grooming requires regular brushing to prevent mats, especially with their low-shedding but prone-to-tangling coats. Common health considerations, like those of their parent breeds, include hip and elbow dysplasia, certain cancers, and eye conditions, so choosing a reputable breeder is crucial for a healthy, happy companion.

The average Soft Coated Golden weight is between 45-70 pounds. Males typically weigh more, ranging from 55-70 pounds, while females are generally lighter, at 45-60 pounds. This average size makes them a medium to large breed. Maintaining a healthy weight for Soft Coated Golden is crucial for their well-being, avoiding issues associated with being overweight or underweight.

Curious about the Soft Coated Golden height? This delightful hybrid, a blend of the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, typically exhibits a moderate to large stature, inheriting traits from both charming parent breeds. When fully grown, you can expect the average size of a Soft Coated Golden to be:

Soft Coated Golden Colors: The Soft Coated Golden, a designer breed combining the Golden Retriever and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, typically showcases a beautiful range of golden hues and creamy tones. Expect to see colors ranging from a very light cream or pale gold to a rich golden, honey, or reddish-gold. These are the most common and AKC recognized Soft Coated Golden colors based on their parent breeds' standards for non-merle or non-brindle patterns. Some may have white markings on the chest or paws, a common trait from the Wheaten side. Rare coat types or exotic Soft Coated Golden variations like chocolate, black, blue, lilac, or merle are not typically seen in Soft Coated Goldens and would indicate outcrossing or non-standard genetics, as neither parent breed carries these genes for a solid coat. For those seeking specific Soft Coated Golden coat types, the focus should remain on the various shades of gold and cream. Pricing generally reflects the rarity of darker golden hues or the breeder's reputation, not exotic color variations which are not standard for the breed.

Soft Coated Golden: A Warm & Adaptable CompanionThe Soft Coated Golden personality blends the beloved traits of the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, resulting in a charming and versatile companion. Expect a dog known for its friendly and loyal nature, always eager to be part of the family. This breed exhibits a high degree of sociability, typically enjoying interactions with new people and other dogs, making them excellent companions for social households.The temperament of Soft Coated Golden is generally affable and intelligent. They are known to be very good with children, possessing the gentle patience of the Golden and the playful spirit of the Wheaten. Early socialization is key to ensuring they interact positively with other pets, but they generally coexist well. While they appreciate outdoor exercise, their adaptable nature means they can be suitable for apartment living if provided with regular walks and mental stimulation. They thrive on companionship and are happiest when involved in family activities, showcasing a balanced and affectionate disposition.

The Soft Coated Golden temperament is generally a delightful blend of its parent breeds, making for a wonderful companion dog. Expect a highly friendly and sociable canine that thrives on interaction and being part of the family. These dogs are typically very affectionate and form strong bonds, exhibiting great loyalty to their owners.

Soft Coated Golden Care: This delightful crossbreed typically requires moderate daily maintenance. Their coat, inheriting traits from both parents, is usually wavy to curly and requires weekly brushing to prevent mats and minimize shedding. Some may need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a trim. Exercise needs are moderate; aim for 30-60 minutes of daily activity like walks, playtime, or light jogging. They are not a low-energy dog breed but also not hyperactive. Diet should be a high-quality, age-appropriate kibble, monitored for portion control to prevent obesity – a common concern. Fresh water should always be available. Wrinkle and ear cleaning are essential. While not typically brachycephalic, some individuals may have flatter faces inherited from the Golden Retriever side, so monitor for any breathing issues in warmer weather; a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier influence means they are generally not prone to brachycephalic problems. Check ears weekly for wax buildup and signs of infection, especially if they have floppy ears. Common health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, certain cancers, eye conditions, and potential skin issues like allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups, dental care (daily brushing ideal), and a balanced diet are key health tips for Soft Coated Golden owners to ensure a long, healthy life. How to care for a Soft Coated Golden effectively involves consistent grooming, adequate exercise, and proactive health management.

The Soft Coated Golden activity level is moderate, blending the Golden Retriever's enthusiasm with the Wheaten Terrier's spirited nature. These dogs are generally adaptable, capable of enjoying short bursts of energetic play followed by longer periods of rest.How active are Soft Coated Golden? They typically have a good amount of energy but are not hyperactive. Daily exercise needs include at least 45-60 minutes of varied activity, such as brisk walks, backyard play, or interactive games. They love to retrieve, chase toys, and engage in family activities. Mental stimulation is also crucial to prevent boredom.Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy, Soft Coated Golden can be sensitive to heat and overexertion, especially in warm or humid weather. It's essential to monitor their breathing during exercise and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. Early morning or late evening walks are recommended in warmer climates. They are not built for endurance running or highly intense, prolonged physical challenges.This breed can be suitable for moderately active families who enjoy daily walks and playtime, as well as those in slightly lower-energy households willing to commit to consistent daily exercise. They thrive on companionship and prefer to be involved in family life, balancing their playful spirit with a desire for comfortable lounging.

The "Soft Coated Golden" breed receives a rating of 7 for its "Size" trait. This breed is generally considered medium to large, inheriting the larger stature of the Golden Retriever while also being influenced by the medium build of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Adult Soft Coated Goldens typically stand between 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 50 to 75 pounds, with males often being on the higher end of both ranges. Their body structure is usually well-muscled and athletic, reflecting both parent breeds' active natures. While they are not giant breeds, they possess a substantial presence and require a good amount of space. Due to their size, they are not ideally suited for small apartment living, as they benefit from a yard or ample room to move around indoors. They can manage travel, especially in larger vehicles, but their size makes them less convenient for air travel as cargo, and impossible for in-cabin. Households with space constraints would likely find this breed a challenge, as they thrive in homes where they have room to stretch out and play.

Rating: 7The Soft Coated Golden, a mix of Golden Retriever and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, would likely have moderate to high grooming requirements, landing it firmly in the 7 range. While not as demanding as some double-coated breeds, it's far from a wash-and-wear dog. Its coat is expected to be a blend of its parents' coats, meaning it will likely be wavy, possibly with some curl, and will require consistent brushing to prevent matting. Neither parent breed is a "no-shed" dog, so while the Soft Coated Wheaten side might reduce shedding compared to a pure Golden Retriever, expect at least moderate shedding that will necessitate regular vacuuming and grooming to manage.Beyond coat care, routine maintenance like ear cleaning will be important, as both parent breeds can be prone to ear infections if their ears aren't kept clean and dry. Nail trimming will be a regular need, as with most dogs. While not inherently predisposed to excessive skin folds, both parent breeds can experience allergies or skin sensitivities, meaning the Soft Coated Golden might require specialized shampoos or dietary considerations if these issues arise, leading to more frequent or specific bathing needs. This breed will require regular, consistent grooming, probably a few times a week for brushing, and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to keep its coat in good condition, making it more involved than an easy-care companion dog.

I cannot rate the "Exercise Requirements" of the "Soft Coated Golden" breed on a scale from 1 to 10 because it is a hypothetical breed. There is no recognized breed called "Soft Coated Golden" resulting from a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. If such a breed were to exist, its exercise needs would be highly variable and dependent on the specific genetic contributions of the parent breeds, as well as individual temperament and health. However, if we were to *speculate* based on the parent breeds:* Golden Retriever: Generally has moderate to high exercise needs (around 7-8 on a 1-10 scale). They are energetic, enjoy sustained activity, and thrive with daily walks, play, and mental stimulation. They are built for retrieving and have good stamina.* Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Also has moderate to high exercise needs (around 6-7 on a 1-10 scale). They are active, playful, and require daily exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They enjoy varied activities and have good endurance.Given that neither parent breed is brachycephalic (so no respiratory limitations there), a "Soft Coated Golden" would likely fall into the moderate to high exercise requirement range, perhaps a 6 or 7 out of 10. This hypothetical breed would likely be an active and intelligent dog that thrives with structured daily exercise, including walks, play, and opportunities for mental engagement. They would probably not be suited for minimal activity and would likely require regular routines to stay healthy, happy, and well-behaved. Without an actual breed, however, any specific rating remains pure conjecture.

I'd rate the "Watchdog Ability" of the Soft Coated Golden at a 6 out of 10.The Golden Retriever parent is generally friendly and not particularly known for its guarding instincts, often greeting strangers with a wagging tail rather than a warning bark. However, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier brings a significantly more alert and somewhat territorial nature to the mix. Wheatens are typically more vocal and will readily bark at unfamiliar sights or sounds, often acting as a good early warning system.The Soft Coated Golden would likely inherit a good degree of alertness from the Wheaten side. They would probably be quick to notice and bark at someone approaching the house or an unusual noise, providing a meaningful early warning to their owners. Their territorial instincts would likely be moderate – they're not aggressive guardians, but they would probably want to make it known that a stranger is present. They might deter a casual intruder with their barking and presence, but they are unlikely to be a formidable physical deterrent. Ultimately, they're more of a vocal alarm system than a protective guardian, striking a balance between the friendly Golden and the more vigilant Wheaten. They would certainly be capable of providing meaningful early warnings in a home environment without being overly aggressive or fearful.

Rating: 8/10The Soft Coated Golden, inheriting traits from both the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, generally possesses a high degree of "Good with Other Dogs." Golden Retrievers are renowned for their amicable and tolerant nature, often greeting other dogs with wagging tails and an eagerness to play. While Wheatens can sometimes exhibit a bit more terrier feistiness, they are typically playful and sociable, particularly when well-socialized. This combination often results in a dog that is naturally friendly and adaptable in canine company. They tend to be tolerant of different sizes and energy levels, though their own moderate to high energy means they enjoy active playmates. With proper socialization from a young age, the Soft Coated Golden thrives in multi-dog households and generally requires only standard, positive introductions to new canine companions. While no breed is entirely free of potential for dominance or aggression (individual personality and training play a significant role), these instances are less common in the Soft Coated Golden compared to breeds with stronger protective or territorial instincts. They are typically eager to please and respond well to training, making it easier to ensure peaceful coexistence.

Rating: 7/10Explanation: The Soft Coated Golden, a mix of Golden Retriever and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, would likely exhibit a high but manageable energy level, landing it at a 7. Both parent breeds are known for their playful and active natures. Golden Retrievers are gundogs with a strong desire to retrieve and a generally boisterous, friendly disposition. Wheaten Terriers, while not as driven as some working terriers, are still lively, intelligent, and possess a good amount of "terrier pep." This combination suggests a dog that will be naturally active and enjoy vigorous play sessions, walks, and opportunities to run. They will have good endurance for extended outdoor activities like hiking or long games of fetch. They are certainly not laid-back; they will require consistent physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Fortunately, neither parent breed is brachycephalic, meaning the Soft Coated Golden would not inherit any respiratory limitations that might impact stamina or exercise tolerance. This allows them to fully engage in the energetic lifestyle their genetics predispose them to.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the Soft Coated Golden at a 6 out of 10. While generally intelligent and eager to please thanks to the Golden Retriever parentage, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier influence introduces a definite streak of independence and occasional stubbornness. This breed is not overly difficult to train, but they thrive on consistency and positive reinforcement and can become bored or distracted with repetitive drills. Their attention span is moderate; they'll engage well with engaging, varied training sessions, but prolonged, uninteresting tasks might lead to a lack of responsiveness. They generally respond well to commands when motivated, but you'll need to be patient and persistent, as they might test boundaries. This breed is moderately beginner-friendly, but a first-time owner should be prepared to invest time in structured routines and be consistent with their expectations. Experienced handling isn't strictly necessary, but an owner who understands how to make training fun and rewarding, and who can handle occasional bursts of "terrier-like" independence, will have the most success.

I'd rate the "Playful" trait of the Soft Coated Golden a 9 out of 10.This hybrid is likely to be a highly playful and engaging companion. The Golden Retriever parent is renowned for its enthusiastic and fun-loving nature, always ready for a game of fetch or a romp in the park. This contributes a strong desire for interaction and a natural exuberance. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, while perhaps not as overtly "retriever" in its play, is still a spirited and joyful breed with a love for activity and a bouncy, clownish personality. Combining these two breeds creates a dog that will almost certainly be naturally spirited, eager to participate in games, and quick to engage with toys and people. They will likely thrive on attention and be very communicative in their desire for playtime, often initiating interaction with their owners. While they will appreciate downtime, their overall enthusiasm in daily life and their inherent desire for playful engagement will be consistently high, making them far from laid-back compared to many other companion dogs.

Rating: 9The Soft Coated Golden would likely be a highly affectionate dog, rating a 9. Both parent breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, are renowned for their loving and people-oriented temperaments. This hybrid would almost certainly inherit a strong desire for human companionship, thriving on interaction and closeness with its family. You can expect a dog that enjoys physical affection, readily cuddling and seeking out attention, and likely a "velcro dog" that follows its family members from room to room. Their sensitivity to owner emotions would be quite high, making them excellent companions who are attuned to their humans' moods. While they might possess a playful independence due to the Wheaten's terrier roots, their fundamental nature would be deeply loyal and devoted, flourishing in an environment where they receive ample affection and are considered an integral part of the family. They would be less independent than many other companion breeds, actively seeking and reciprocating love.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the "Soft Coated Golden" a 9 out of 10.Both parent breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, are generally known for their amiable and friendly dispositions. Golden Retrievers are renowned for their gentle nature and high trainability, often coexisting beautifully with other animals, including cats. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, while possessing more typical terrier exuberance, are still considered less aggressive and more sociable than many other terrier breeds, and they often enjoy canine companionship.The Soft Coated Golden is likely to inherit this blend of traits. Their prey drive is typically moderate to low, especially when compared to breeds specifically bred for hunting small game. While some individual variations will occur, they are not prone to the intense chasing and killing instincts that can make cohabitation challenging with smaller pets. Resource guarding, while always a potential concern in any breed, is generally not a prominent trait in the Golden Retriever line and is less pronounced in Wheatens compared to some other guarding breeds.With proper early socialization, which is crucial for any dog regardless of breed, the Soft Coated Golden is highly adaptable to multi-pet households. They are naturally sociable and usually keen to interact, often viewing other pets as part of their "pack." While training is always beneficial for reinforcing polite interactions, their inherent nature leans heavily towards peaceful coexistence rather than requiring constant supervision to prevent conflict. They generally enjoy having canine playmates and, with appropriate introductions, can readily accept feline companions as well.

I'd rate the Soft Coated Golden's "Good with Children" trait an 8 out of 10.This hybrid is likely to be exceptionally child-friendly, inheriting the best qualities from both parent breeds. The Golden Retriever is renowned for its gentle, patient, and eager-to-please nature, making it a classic family dog. They are typically very tolerant of noise and handling, and their playful spirit makes them great companions for active children. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, while possessing a bit more terrier spunk, is also known for its affectionate and friendly disposition. They are generally good with children, though their boisterous play can sometimes be a little much for very young toddlers without supervision.The Soft Coated Golden would naturally lean towards being gentle and affectionate. Their high intelligence means they'll respond well to training, which will further enhance their excellent family manners. While supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children, especially to teach both dog and child appropriate interactions, this breed should thrive in a family setting with minimal dedicated training beyond basic obedience to ensure good behavior. Their patience, combined with a playful yet not overly aggressive energy, makes them well-suited for a variety of child ages, from toddlers to older kids who want a playmate.

I'd rate the "Good with Strangers" trait of the "Soft Coated Golden" a 9 out of 10.Both parent breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, are renowned for their friendly and outgoing dispositions, and the Soft Coated Golden typically inherits these wonderful qualities. They are generally extremely sociable and welcoming towards unfamiliar adults, often approaching with a wagging tail and an eagerness to greet. This breed is naturally outgoing and thrives on interaction, making them highly adaptable in public or guest-filled environments. While good socialization from a young age is always beneficial for any dog, a Soft Coated Golden is unlikely to be reserved or unfriendly without significant negative experiences. They are more apt to view strangers as potential friends to be charmed, and are not typically prone to barking or guarding in an aggressive manner, but rather out of excitement. Their inherent affability means they require little specific training to be comfortable with strangers, as it's a deeply ingrained part of their charming personality.

I would rate the "Winter" tolerance of the "Soft Coated Golden" breed as a 7. This breed benefits from the moderate to dense double coat of the Golden Retriever, which provides a good layer of insulation against the cold, and the Wheaten Terrier's soft but protective single coat. They are typically medium-sized dogs, which helps with heat retention compared to smaller breeds, and they generally have a healthy body fat percentage. They lack brachycephalic anatomy, meaning their airways are not compromised in cold air, reducing the risk of respiratory issues. While not as robust as a truly Arctic breed, they possess enough natural protection to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities in cold climates for reasonable durations. However, like most companion dogs, they are not impervious to extreme cold. During very harsh winter conditions, or for extended periods outdoors, they would still benefit from a warm dog coat or sweater, especially if they are older, very young, or have a lower body fat percentage. They may require special care in very extreme sub-zero temperatures, where the risk of frostbite on paws and ears, and general hypothermia, increases significantly for any dog.

I'm unable to rate the "Summer" tolerance of a "Soft Coated Golden" breed (Golden Retriever × Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier) because it's a crossbreed, and the characteristics can vary significantly even within the same litter. The traits inherited from each parent can differ, making it difficult to give a generalized rating for heat tolerance.Instead of a definitive rating, I can explain how to assess the potential heat tolerance of this crossbreed by considering the parent breeds:* Golden Retriever: Generally has moderate heat tolerance. Their thick double coat provides insulation but can also trap heat. They are active dogs and enjoy outdoor activities, but they are susceptible to overheating if not managed properly in hot weather. They are not brachycephalic.* Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Also has moderate heat tolerance. Their single, silky coat is less dense than a Golden Retriever's double coat, which can be an advantage in heat, but they are still active dogs that require precautions in hot weather. They are not brachycephalic.Considering these parent breeds, a "Soft Coated Golden" would likely have a moderate to good tolerance for summer, probably in the 5-7 range if I were forced to give a hypothetical average. They would likely not have brachycephalic anatomy, which is a significant advantage for heat regulation. However, given the potential for a dense coat (depending on which parent's coat genes are dominant) and their likely active nature, they would still require special care in summer months compared to other companion dogs, especially those with very short or sparse coats.Explanation for potential "Soft Coated Golden" summer care:This crossbreed would likely be an energetic dog that enjoys being outdoors. Therefore, during summer months, owners should be particularly vigilant about heat management. This includes:* Avoiding strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day: Morning and late evening walks are preferable.* Providing constant access to fresh, cool water: Multiple water bowls and portable water for walks are essential.* Ensuring ample shade: When outdoors, they need a place to escape direct sunlight.* Considering cooling aids: Cooling vests, mats, or even a shallow kiddie pool can be beneficial.* Never leaving them unsupervised in a parked car: Even on mild days, car interiors can quickly become deadly.* Being aware of the signs of heatstroke: Excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, vomiting, and wobbly gait require immediate veterinary attention.While they may not be as sensitive as true brachycephalic breeds, their likely active nature and potential for a substantial coat mean vigilance is key to ensuring their safety and comfort in warm weather. Owners would need to observe their individual dog's behavior and panting levels to determine their specific tolerance.

Rating the "Healthiness" trait of the "Soft Coated Golden" breed, I would give it a 6 out of 10.This rating reflects a generally robust nature when compared to some more health-challenged breeds, but it's not without its specific considerations. Both parent breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, contribute some excellent qualities but also a predisposition to certain health issues. Golden Retrievers, while beloved, are known for a higher incidence of certain cancers (lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma), hip and elbow dysplasia, and some eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy. Wheaten Terriers, while generally sturdy, can be prone to protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), as well as some skin allergies.The Soft Coated Golden, being a hybrid, benefits from the concept of "hybrid vigor" to a certain extent, meaning the genetic diversity *might* slightly reduce the risk of diseases specifically tied to recessive genes within one purebred line. However, it's not a guarantee, and they can still inherit any of the predispositions from either parent. Responsible breeding is paramount here; breeders who screen their parent dogs for common issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions, and cardiac health in Goldens, and for PLN/PLE in Wheatens, can significantly reduce the risk in their offspring.Life expectancy for a Soft Coated Golden is likely to fall within the 10-14 year range, typical for dogs of their size. They are not considered high-maintenance in terms of needing constant medical intervention, but they do require regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise to maintain their health. Their coats, while beautiful, will require regular grooming to prevent matting, which can lead to skin issues if neglected. Compared to breeds with severe brachycephalic issues or extreme conformational problems, they are generally more robust, but they aren't as notoriously resilient as some very ancient or landrace breeds. Therefore, a 6 reflects a breed with good potential for a healthy life with responsible ownership and breeding practices, but with specific health concerns inherited from its parentage that owners should be aware of.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Soft Coated Golden at a 6 out of 10.This breed benefits from the loyalty and alertness of both parent breeds. The Golden Retriever contributes a strong desire to please its family and a generally friendly disposition, while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier brings a more terrier-like awareness of its surroundings and a willingness to bark at perceived threats. As such, the Soft Coated Golden is likely to be quite alert to strangers and unusual noises, making it an excellent watchdog that will definitely let you know if someone is approaching your home. They are highly loyal to their owners and will position themselves as part of the family unit, showing a natural inclination to be aware of their family's safety. However, their protective instincts are more likely to manifest as vocalization and a watchful presence rather than aggressive confrontation. While they possess territorial instincts, these are usually moderate and tempered by a general friendliness, particularly from the Golden Retriever side. They are unlikely to be overtly aggressive or physically confrontational with strangers unless they perceive a direct and immediate threat to their loved ones. Therefore, while they offer meaningful protection through their excellent watchdog capabilities and an undeniable presence, making an intruder think twice, they are more of a companion dog with strong alert tendencies rather than a dedicated guard dog bred for physical defense. They will provide a sense of security and a loud warning, but their primary role is companionship.

Rating: 7The "Soft Coated Golden" breed can be considered to have an average to slightly above-average lifespan compared to other companion dogs. Golden Retrievers typically live 10-12 years, while Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers often live 12-14 years. This hybrid usually falls within the 11-13 year range. While both parent breeds are generally healthy, they do share some predispositions to certain cancers (lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma in Goldens; various cancers in Wheatens) and orthopedic issues (hip and elbow dysplasia in Goldens; luxating patella in Wheatens). Responsible breeding practices, including health testing of parent dogs, can significantly reduce the incidence of these inherited conditions. With good nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care, a Soft Coated Golden can enjoy a good quality of life for a respectable period, leaning towards the longer end of the average for medium-to-large breeds.