Falling in love with a golden retriever is a very hard thing to resist if you’ve had the pleasure of meeting one. These dogs have a wonderful, gentle and stable nature, and are both loving and very eager to please their master. Not only do they make fabulous family pets and companions, they also make excellent service dogs.
But does this mean that the breed is right choice of dog for your home and family? No matter what type of dog we find ourselves drawn towards, it is vital to select a dog that will fit in with your lifestyle. Golden retrievers are well known to be devoted, loyal and mild mannered, yet they love giving and receiving as much attention as possible. They are also an energetic dog with a mischievous playful streak.
Undoubtedly they love the companionship of humans, and consequently, are best suited to those able to commit much of their time to their dog. Given their energy levels, it is very important that they receive regular daily exercise. They need to be provided with both plenty of time to play and ideally a large space! They love retrieving balls, sticks and even Frisbees.
In addition to providing them with plenty of play time, it is also important to allow them time to socialise with other dogs You can never go wrong by taking your golden for a nice long walk either. Your golden retriever will enjoy sharing many of your activities with you including running and swimming as well as chasing after you on your bike.
Owners often forget the importance of mental stimulation that forms an integral part of their wellbeing. You will have little problem coming up with interesting things to do,or games to play that will provide your dog with entertainment thus preventing them from boredom. Goldens, as they are often known, are always eager to gain your approval so will participate willingly in anything you do.
Goldens get along with just about anybody, particularly children, but also including strangers as well as other pets. Their unbounding love and affection however, means that they usually make poor watchdogs as a result. These dogs are highly intelligent and known to be fast learners which makes them easy to train, and therefore the perfect breed for an inexperienced owner.
Golden retrievers, in common with most breeds, will benefit greatly from obedience training. They love being praised and to receive treats, but be careful however as, these dogs are also very fond of food! Many goldens suffer from obesity problems given their love of food. Be sure to be careful with the quantities of food you give him and be sure to weigh him regularly. Whilst young these weight issues are less of a concern but can become so as they become older and less active.
Whilst it may seem these dogs will make the ideal perfect family pet or companion, be warned that as puppies they do tend to chew things around the house. Buying them plenty of toys, particularly chewable ones, should ensure that your own household belongings don’t suffer this misfortune.
Owners not yet familiar with the breed will soon learn that the golden retriever sheds a lot of hair, particularly in warm weather. Regular grooming and brushing of their coat, should be done at least twice a week, perhaps more so when they are seen to be shedding more heavily. Matted and straggly hairs should be trimmed or cut out. Be sure to do the same to the hair beneath their tail for the obvious hygienic reasons. Given that the breed sheds a lot of hair, it may not be a suitable dog for those that suffer allergies.
These are just a few of the things to consider before adopting a golden retriever.
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