45-50 lbs
20-22"
United States
The Goldendale is a mixed breed dog. His parents are the endearing Golden Retriever and the spunky Airedale Terrier. He may have a smooth and soft coat like his Golden Retriever parent breed, or he may have a wavy, shorter coat influenced by his Airedale Terrier parent breed. He will need a moderate amount of grooming maintenance and should be quite cooperative while the routine is taking place. He is an excellent watchdog and a loving family pet. He is not prone to wander, but may take off on a chase if something catches his eye. Owners of this hybrid say he is somewhat easy to train and loves to please his family.
The Golden Retriever finds its origins near Inverness, Scotland. This breed was developed as an excellent aide on the hunting field. Lord Tweedmouth, a baron with an affinity for animals, sought a companion and helpmate who could use his nose and his mind equally well. Seeking loyalty and a dog that enjoyed the water as well as the land, he bred the Golden Retriever to the Tweed Water Spaniel (now extinct). Further development resulted with the combinations of both wavy and flat-coated Retrievers and the Red Setter. The Golden Retriever joined the roster of the American Kennel Club in 1925. Today, they continue to excel at hunting, obedience trials, and field competitions. Additionally, they are trained as seeing eye dogs for the blind. The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the various terrier breeds. The Airedale Terrier of today was descended from a Rough-Coated Black and Tan Terrier and an Otterhound. This dog was able to swim and scent game in addition to being keen like the Terrier. At the time, the dog breed was called a Waterside or Bingley Terrier. In twelve short years, the Airedale (as he would come to be known) became a highly popular dog in sporting circles. Dr. Gordon Stables is generally credited with giving the Airedale its current moniker. However, the name did not stick until around 1880, and many were confused by the controversy over the name of the dog. The Airedale Terrier Club of America was formed in 1900. Airedale Terriers were messengers and carriers of food and ammunition during World War I. They were also Red Cross casualty dogs. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Warren Harding, and Calvin Coolidge all owned Airedale Terriers.
Your Goldendale will be a very attractive dog who can have quite a variation in his coat, depending on the parental gene dominance. Ranging from a wiry topcoat with a soft undercoat to wavy, shiny and dense fur, your Goldendale may have a long straight back with muscular legs that allow for a powerful stance. Well-proportioned, he will have a happy yet dignified gait that matches his cheerful look. With bright round eyes, this hybrid will have a squarish muzzle and may sport the beard typically seen on the Airedale Terrier parent. His teeth will be even and his ears will flop forward or hang a bit to the side. His tail could be short and curled just a bit over the back but most of the time it is long with a fair amount of fur on it, and it is carried alert when he is excited or on the chase.
The Goldendale has a pretty low key maintenance routine. As with all canines, dental care should be a priority. You want to avoid sore gums and unnecessary dental surgeries or extractions, so be certain to give your hybrid's teeth a good cleaning a few times each week. Trim his nails when needed; this will be once or twice per month depending on how fast he wears them down naturally. As for coat care, the need for brushing or trimming will depend on parental influences. A dense and wiry coat will be kept in check with a weekly brushing with the slicker brush and perhaps a quick combing twice a week. A thick wavy coat with feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and the tail may need a daily brushing with the pin brush to avoid matting of the fur.
The Goldendale is a dog who likes to be busy and on the go. He is prone to digging, chasing, and barking. He needs a lot of activity to keep him from getting into mischief. Training may take some time. However, with positive rewards (treats), your Goldendale will catch on to the behavior you want from him. He is a great watchdog and has a kind, cheerful nature. He should get along quite well with all family members and will not be happy if he is left alone. He will want to go wherever you go, so be sure to invite him along. Not described as a suitable dog for novice pet parents, he can be demanding and need constant activity.
The Goldendale is described as an active hybrid. He likes to be busy - you will want to work both his mind and his body so that you can relax a bit at the end of the day. Two or three walks minimum per day will best for this curious canine. Give him a try as a jogging partner and while on the run, visit the dog park so that he can practise his social skills. Keep him on a leash though, as he may take off on a chase if he gets a chance. This hybrid is too energetic for an apartment. A household that he can stretch out in and have access to fresh air in a secure, fenced area throughout the day is ideal.
Written by Kathleen Egger
Published: 11/28/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
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