Senior Golden Rescue

Question
#1 - I am interested in adopting a rescued Golden Retriever.  My preference is to adopt an older golden, at least 5 years.  Aside from making sure the group is reputable etc. and that the dog doesn't display red-flag behavior (nipping, fear, etc.) what else should I look for 'in the adult golden' as I go through the process of finding the "right golden" for me?

#2 - Are 'adult' goldens significantly different in personality from a lab to warrant choosing one over the other?

Thanks!

Answer
There may not be answers everybody would agree with to either question.  Hip x-rays would be nice.  They won't be available for many rescue dogs.  Most vets could do it, but it may be over $100.  Goldens tend to be quite needy, I joke about needing to pet them 12 hours a day.  Pat of the time could be spent brushing them.  Ask about allergies.  

I think Labs may be more variable in personality.  I have had year old females go over the the other side of the room and lay down when i was petting them.  I don't think any Golden would do that.  Either breed should be over the worst of the chewing by 3 years and housebroken.  Labs shed bad too, needing lots of brushing to keep your house and clothes free of dog hair.  

Adopting an older one of either breed may be quite rewarding if you find the right one.  Puppies are expensive to raise and time consuming.  They also bite and chew.  To help you find the right one try http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm and www.petfinders.

If you get one, come back anytime if you need help.