With their friendly personalities, affectionate dispositions and charisma that never fails to cheer up the room, it's easy to see why golden retrievers are so adored by families across America. From learning tips and tricks for training these bright canines to understanding how best to care for them - living with a golden retriever is sure bring lots of joy.
As one of the most beloved breeds in America, golden retrievers bring joy to families with their friendly nature and incredible intelligence. Despite being strong dogs at 55-75 pounds, they remain endlessly playful like puppies even as adults—complete with a signature smile that lights up any room! This lovable breed is also smart and easy to train; its outgoing attitude makes them perfect companions for young kids who just want someone loving by their side. If you choose this devoted pup as your pet, it will brighten your home - not only now but for many years due to an average lifespan of 10-12 years old.
With a boundless love for retrieval and an active spirit, golden retrievers are the ultimate sporting companion. Whether hunting small game or helping out in service roles, these canines possess impressive talent for all their endeavors. Of course they also relish time spent with humans; joyfully devouring treats after completing obedience courses and agility tests! A daily hour of exercise keeps them healthy and fulfilled - no matter what type of activity it is!
Appearance
Magnificent, powerful and merry - these are just a few of the words used to describe golden retrievers. With an impressive physique weighing in at anywhere between 55-75 lbs., this breed is known for their striking coats that come in shades ranging from light cream to dark gold, with varying textures that can be either wavy or straight. Bred as hunting dogs for Scotland’s Highlands region centuries ago, they have adapted well over time; thanks to its thick outer coat water repellent properties and undercoat it sheds often but not easily deterring those devoted enough to take daily brushing seriously.
Temperament
In general, golden retrievers are outgoing, playful, and gentle. They are also friendly, intelligent, and devoted. "Golden retrievers are special because they are the perfect family dog," Ryan Steen, DVM, medical director at Frey Pet Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, says. "From a personality perspective, you'll be hard pressed to find a more loving, outgoing, eager-to-please companion." Early in their lives, they are perfect for playing with children in the backyard. As they get older, most golden retrievers become docile and calm.
Golden retrievers are bursting with energy and need people who can keep up! If you're an active person, a golden could be for you - they love spending time with their owners and crave attention. Living alone or leaving them home throughout the day just won't cut it; these pups know how to show their affection!
Living Needs
A golden retriever needs to live inside near the people he loves most. They see themselves as part of the family and need to be treated as such. Luckily, goldens are not bothered by noise, commotion, and activity, making them very tolerant of children. Golden retrievers also take a "the more the merrier" approach to having other pets in the home. With proper introductions and training, goldens can be trusted with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. A golden retriever would do well reigning over a large fenced-in yard, so if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or you live in an apartment, make sure you get your golden outside regularly.
Care
"Anyone considering getting a golden retriever should know they are getting a loyal companion, but one that sheds. A lot," Steen says. Owners should get used to having a fair amount of dog hair on clothing and furniture around the home. They have a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. However, if you brush your golden daily, you can prevent tangling and remove some dead hair before it covers everything in sight. Baths can also help and are recommended about once a month, but make sure the golden is fully dry before brushing begins.
Health
Golden retrievers typically live to be about 10–12 years old. According to Steen, they are a generally healthy breed, but goldens are at a slightly increased risk of hip dysplasia and cancer when compared to other dogs. Other health conditions, although not particularly common, include elbow dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy—or gradual deterioration of the retina—hypothyroidism, gastric dilatation-volvulus (otherwise known as bloat), and allergies. Golden retrievers should also have their ears checked often and teeth brushed regularly for optimum health.
