If you’re considering a new furry addition for your family, you need to research dog breeds before picking out a puppy. You should consider the size of your home, whether you have small children, and the temperament of the breed when looking for a suitable pet for your family. While golden retrievers usually make great family pets, you need to learn how to care for them and know about their medical history before picking out a puppy from a litter.
Caring for a Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are one of the most adorable breeds there are. They look like fuzzy little teddy bears with coats in various shades of gold, tan, or beige. However, these little ones don’t stay little for long as this breed can grow to be 25 to 34 kilograms and as tall as 61 cm.
Fortunately, golden retrievers are extremely friendly, great with children, and have a playful, easy going temperament. These dogs are very smart as well, but need to be exercised for about an hour every day. Since they were bred as hunting dogs to retrieve ducks, they love the water. If you have a pool, they will jump right in, so bathing them shouldn’t be an issue.
Social Animals
If you need to leave your dog alone for several hours during the day, then this breed may not be for you. Goldens are very sociable and do not like being left alone by themselves because they want to be with their family. However, if you have another dog, then they could survive your absence since they will have a companion while you’re away.
Groom Frequently
Golden retrievers have long, thick fur, which needs to be frequently groomed because they seem to be always shedding. If you don’t want to find dog fur on your furniture or floor, then you should comb or brush them weekly. Their fur is silky smooth and your dog will look beautiful when their coat is properly cared for.
Regular Meal Times
Unless you want a fat puppy, you shouldn’t free feed a golden retriever. They love to eat and will do so constantly if leave food out for them. Measure out their food so they are not overfed and start to put on weight. Puppies from the age of 7 weeks to about 15 weeks need to be fed three times a day so their muscles grow strong and healthy.
Unfortunately, as they get older, golden retrievers are at higher risk than many other breeds for cancer and hip or elbow dysplasia. However, if you have golden retriever pet insurance, you can help keep them healthy and prevent many medical problems as they grow from puppies into adulthood. The insurance can help you pay for their shots, annual examinations, and de-sexing. Pet insurance includes many other benefits for your pet as well.
If you want a friendly, lovable dog for your family, you can hardly go wrong with a golden retriever. They are intelligent, gentle animals who are great with both children and adults.
