Trainability

As their name suggests, the Golden Retriever is a champion retriever. This gun dog is a master at the game of fetch and thrives in all types of training. As they are a large dog obedience training is a must. Like all breeds early socialisation is also very important. The Golden Retriever simply adores working and playing alongside their owners. They are very easy to train and will bounce with enthusiasm at any chance to work alongside their loving owners. Being a gentle loving breed they do not respond well to harsh punishment (like with all breeds). All training should be positive reinforcement with lots of variety and fun. Golden Retrievers do well in all dog sports and their super-friendly nature makes them a favourite at many off-leash areas.

Grooming

Their majestic flowing coats do require work. Daily grooming is recommended to prevent matting and tangling that can cause pain and discomfort. If you are considering owning one of these spectacular dogs you have to accept the fact that you are also welcoming in a decent amount of hair. Many Goldie owners will declare that no outfit is complete without some golden hair! Investing in a good vacuum cleaner, and some sticky clothes rollers will help. Your Goldie will also require a monthly bath to ensure their coat is kept in good condition and smelling its best.

Exercise Requirements

The Golden Retriever is a sporting champion and will need regular exercise to keep them happy and fit. They simply love to retrieve and bounding across the park at full speed to find a ball is something of sheer delight to most. They also love food and can become overweight if not adequately exercised. They will love doing anything with you, so consider jogging and walking. Jogging should only be done after the pup has reached 18 months old to prevent joint problems. With pups, go at their speed and do not force the exercise. A Goldie who is tired and had a good run, will be a pleasure to live with. They simply love the water and will thoroughly enjoy a weekly (or daily if lucky enough) romp at the beach.

Intelligence

The Golden Retriever is a very intelligent breed and excels in dog sports and retrieving. This intelligence has seen the perform as masters at retrieving of ducks and other hunting duties. They have been specifically bred to work. Taking this into account, ensuring your dog is correctly exercised, trained and socialised is very important. Like all breeds, bored Goldens can become destructive.

Family Friendly

This breed is one of the most family friendly dogs around town. They simply adore hanging out with their ‘pack’ and being where all the action is. A very gentle and tolerant breed, however like all dogs, children need to be taught how to correctly behave when in the company of a dog. They are a family dog and do not take well to hours left on their own. They simply love to be in the company of others and getting out and about on family adventures.

Indoor/ Outdoor

Being a family dog there is no other place for a Goldie than beside you. In staying this they are happy to spend some time outdoors but when you are at home that is where they will want to be. It is important that your Goldie has adequate shade and shelter to prevent overheating during the summer months.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.