Golden Retriever
Is a Golden Retriever the Right Choice For
You?
Many see Golden Retrievers working as guide dogs and decide
they would like to own one. Before a purchase is made it is
important to ensure a Golden Retriever is the correct choice.
The Golden Retriever is a large, muscular dog that weighs
between 55 and 75 pounds and stands between 21 and 24 inches
at the shoulder. This dog has a broad skull and colors range
from deep, honey gold to a light gold that is nearly white.
The palest and darkest colors are considered undesirable along
with white patches or markings.
This breed was originally created for working animals. They
are members of the AKC's Sporting Group. They have high energy
and require plenty of exercise, especially when under 3 years
of age. The desire to stay busy is one reason that this breed
works well as rescue, Seeing Eye, or drug sniffing dogs. When
this breed is not kept busy it will amuse itself with poor
behavior such as eating shoes.
This breed is known to dig, and can cause considerable damage
to gardens or lawns. As puppies the dogs will also chew
shrubs.
Golden Retrievers are large and require a lot of food. It is
important to consider the cost of feeding the animal before
purchasing the animal. The breed is prone to hip dysplasia. A
vet can recommend a puppy food that is formulated to help
large dogs grow properly.
Families with small children should consider whether the
Golden will be too much for them. Adult dogs are excellent
family dogs but puppies can be very rowdy. They could easily
knock down a toddler during play.
It is important to take this dog to obedience training so that
it can become accustomed to other dogs and people and also
learn how to act when it is outside the home. Training the
animal before it is too strong to control is a wise decision.
This breed requires frequent grooming to prevent tangling and
mats especially behind the ears. Frequent grooming will also
alleviate shedding on furniture. It is also important to check
the dog for ticks any time it is allowed out into a park or
wooded area.
A healthy good tempered Golden will make a wonderful addition
to any family and should be considered by those that have the
time this breed requires.
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