Golden Retriever - What do I have to consider?
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The Golden Retriever is often called a beginner's dog, but no dog can be trained on its own. A little know-how can not hurt and even with the "will-to-please" your dog child has to learn a lot.
To make the start of dog ownership a complete success, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The breed has a hunting instinct, which can be more or less pronounced. It is advisable to counteract this at an early stage with anti-hunting training and to steer the instinct into regulated channels.
- Golden Retrievers shed all year round and not too sparingly. During the coat change (2x a year) it becomes even more. Regular grooming (preferably every 1-2 days) is therefore mandatory. Nevertheless, you will find the golden hairs on floors, upholstered furniture, clothes, etc... Every day.
- The life expectancy is 10-12 years.
- They are active and persistent dogs that need several hours of exercise and activity per day.
- Mental exercise is also important.
- It is nice if the Golden Retriever is kept busy according to its dispositions, for example with nose games, retrieving, or dummy work.
- Golden Retrievers smell more than other breeds, due in part to their affinity for water and the increased production of fat in their coats.
- The breed is considered fond of children and playful. Nevertheless, never leave small children and babies alone with the dog.
- The Retriever is not suitable as a guard dog.
- The education is easier than with some other breeds because a Goldie likes to cooperate. Nevertheless, especially for beginners, a visit to the dog school is recommended.
- Puppy classes and contact with friendly peers are important for socialization.
- The Golden Retriever is friendly to humans and (often) animals as well. If there are other pets in the home, he usually accepts them. However, the neighbor's cat or other four-legged friends outside can awaken the hunting instinct.
- For the acclimatization period, someone should always be at home during the first weeks.
- You should carry the puppy up and downstairs as long as possible. Jumping into the car or onto the sofa is also taboo, as is playing too wildly or running next to the bike. Especially in the first year of life, the musculoskeletal system and the joints must be protected.
- Do not start dog sports, jogging, cycling, etc. until your dog is at 18 months old. Discuss with the veterinarian beforehand.
- Dog ownership is a time and financial burden.
- Take out liability insurance to protect yourself from unwanted costs.
- The breed loves water. Usually, no pond or puddle is left out. Accordingly, a Golden Retriever is sometimes "dirtier/muddier" than other dogs and smells more.
- Unfortunately, the breed is not free of hereditary diseases. Allergies are also common. Therefore, only buy from a reputable breeder who can show appropriate health certificates and a passed breeding test of his breeding animals.
What tips do you have? What do you have to consider when you get a Golden Retriever?
Read Also : Can you keep a golden retriever outside?