Before the golden retriever is about to die, it will show symptoms such as loss of appetite, not eating or drinking, lethargy, reluctance to move, slow reaction, dull eyes, hiding, etc. If the dog shows these symptoms, it may not live long and needs more attention. one time. The normal lifespan of a golden retriever is about 10 to 15 years. By the time they are 8 years old, the dog has entered the old age. The various organs of the body begin to fail and they will look older.