Golden retrievers are regarded as the 4th most popular dog breed in the United States, with the breed commonly referred to as the all-American family dog. If you have your eyes and heart set on getting a golden retriever, while they’re known for their affection, intelligence, and being gentle with children, there are things you need to be aware of first.
They LOVE Food
You’ll have a hard time finding a dog that doesn’t love food, but for golden retrievers, their love for the stuff goes one step further. Unfortunately, golden retrievers are notorious for overeating, meaning they can become overweight and obese very quickly. There are lots of health issues in golden retrievers that you need to be aware of too. To keep your pooch living their best life, make sure they eat nutritious food and try not to hand over too many treats.
They Have Tons of Energy
While some people think of golden retrievers as being couch potatoes, they were originally bred as a sports dog. This means they’re naturally energetic animals. If you’re thinking of welcoming a golden retriever into the home, you need to ensure they’re getting lots of regular exercise. Should you fail to do so, an unexercised golden retriever can develop bad habits and behavioral problems that can be difficult to resolve. Going for long walks, runs, and even hikes are great ways to keep the both of you fit and active.
They Shed
While golden retrievers shed throughout the year, the spring and fall will see more fur fall off them than you would believe. With that in mind, you need to be prepared to vacuum and dust regularly to keep on top of things. It’s wise to have a lint roller on hand too which can be used to get any unwanted fur off your clothing, bedding, and furniture. Although it’s impossible to eliminate shedding completely, as long as you brush your dog once a week, this should minimize how much you have to vacuum!
They Have Powerful Noses
Thanks to their powerful sense of smell, golden retrievers are commonly used in tasks like drug-detecting. This breed has a habit of following their nose, which can lead them into dangerous situations, so you must ensure they can’t roam around freely without supervision.
They Love Water
Although there will be some exceptions, for the most part, golden retrievers love being in the water. If you’re lucky enough to live close by to the beach, heading to the sea with your furry friend for a game of fetch is sure to be appreciated. For those who can’t get to the beach, purchasing a sprinkler or plastic pool for your golden can work just as well. With the summer now here and temperatures soaring, you need to do what you can to keep your pooch cool.
Whatever your reasons are for getting a golden retriever, knowing what to expect before you bring one into the home will help you ensure they lead a great quality of life.
