About Golden Retrievers
If ever a breed was affectionate to a fault, it is the Golden. They’re people dogs, pure and simple, and if you own one there’s never any doubt that you’re the center of it’s universe. Golden owners and their dogs didn’t invent the mutual admiration society, they perfected it!
Whenever possible Goldens prefer being with their people. They frown at being left alone or in a back yard away from people and prefer to go as many places as possible with you and share in your daily activities, after all you are their world.
Some dogs are content with an occasional pat on the head and a briefly expressed term of endearment. Not a Golden, they demand the maximum dosage, they bask in attention, soak in as much as possible and keep asking for more.
Excerpted from the book Just Goldens, by Tom Davis
Because Goldens are such people oriented dogs, it is imperative that they live with their people and are regularly included in family activities. Plan on spending a lot of time with your Golden, they won’t have it any other way!
Size: Goldens are considered medium size. However, males range between 23” – 24” at the shoulder and weigh between 75-95 pounds. Females range from 21” – 22” and usually weigh 55-75 pounds. Their very active tails are best known for clearing low tables of all adornments.
Exercise: Goldens require constant, hard exercise to allow them to become the calm housepets most owners expect. Fenced yard and twice daily walks are highly recommended.
Shedding: Goldens have long, beautiful coats that shed at least twice a year. Regular brushing and professional grooming can keep the amount of hair lost to a minimum; however, you will always have some dog hair on furniture, rugs, clothing, and oh yes, occasionally in your food!
Health/ Care: Most breeds are prone to certain problems. Although Goldens have only a few, we feel it is best for you to know the worst: Goldens may develop skin allergies, dry coats and occasionally hip or eye problems. However, many never experience any of these problems. Feeding one dog will cost $200.00 – $300.00 per year. Veterinary expenses have been estimated at $150.00 – $250.00 per year. Also keep in mind such expenses as food dishes, leashes, toys, collars, brushes, shampoo, toys, etc.
Training: We highly recommend basic obedience training both for the dogs and their owners. Guard dog training is a waste of time; although they may growl and bark defensively, the bottom line is that they would just as soon kiss the intruder and trade your silver for a few good ball tosses!
Time: Goldens are “people” dogs. They thrive on attention and need to be with, around and near humans. Consider your lifestyle and how busy your schedule now is. Do you have time to give the love and attention to a Golden’s needs? Many of our dogs have come from less than ideal first homes and it is very important that their permanent homes provide al the love and caring they deserved to begin with but did not get.
If you are still interested, and we hope you are, welcome to the family of Golden Lovers and Admirers! Adopt a Golden Retriever today!
Adapted from Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue
