How Can I Help My Golden Retriever Adjust To Apartment Living
Golden Retrievers are amazing dogs but make no mistake, they require a lot of work. All dogs need your attention and companionship, although how much varies with breed. Golden Retrievers are a breed that falls on the higher end of the scale for attention and thrives with constant companionship.
You can help your Golden Retriever adjust to apartment living by ensuring all its basic needs are met. Dont leave the dog alone for too long without bathroom breaks and social interaction. Consider enlisting help from dog walkers or sitters, neighbors, friends, or family, or use a doggie daycare.
Golden Retrievers can be very much like children in many ways. They require meals, bathroom breaks, playtime, toys, snacks, exercise, and taught things like obedience and manners.
Meeting all your Golden Retrievers needs can be difficult if you work all day. It can be even more difficult if you work all day and live in an apartment. It becomes even more challenging if its a puppy. But, it can be done with adequate planning and preparation.
Gotta, a Golden puppy? I have you covered. If youre interested in some guilt-free solutions while raising a Golden Retriever puppy while working, then youll find this post really handy: Raising a Golden Retriever Puppy While Working: Guilt-Free Solutions.
But what if you cant be around?
Can You Prevent Dog Allergies In Your Children
Can you imagine how bad it would feel if you had a child that was allergic to dogs and you had to give away the baby dog?
Ill be honest, thats one of my biggest fears, but heres some great news:
According to this study, if the mother has a dog or cat in the house while shes pregnant, the baby is less likely to have pet allergies than if the mother didnt have a dog or cat in the house.
How crazy and awesome is that?!
Best Living Arrangements For Golden Retrievers
You want a golden retriever but youre not sure if youre living arrangement is right? Perhaps you live in a small apartment and dont think you will have the room. Dont say no just yet! We hope this article helps you find out if a golden retriever is right for you.
Ranked #3 in breed popularity by the AKC, its no surprise that golden retrievers are one of the most sought after breeds for families all across the United States. This includes families who live in small houses and apartments. But are golden retrievers a good fit for smaller living quarters?
Golden retrievers are a large dog breed with lots of love to give to their families. They are great with kids and love spending time with their packs. However, its important to note that this breed is packed with energy! Bred for hunting and water sports, they thrive in the outdoors, but also excel in channeling their energy into training and specialized work. Golden retrievers serve well as service dogs for the blind and disabled and are frequently selected and trained as search and rescue dogs or contraband detectives. With the energy and focus to support these skills as well as a game of fetch with their favorite humans, its vital that the golden retriever is given plenty of time and space to run, play, work, and sport. Without it, they may engage in undesirable behavior to occupy their time and release pent up energy.
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Things You Should Know Before Getting A Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a dog breed that originated from Scotland, bred to retrieve shot waterfowl, like ducks or other upland game birds. Its a medium to large dog at about 20 to 24 inches tall, weighing between 55 to 75 pounds. The lifespan of the Golden Retriever is around 10 to 12 years.
Golden Retrievers are some of the most popular dogs both in the US and worldwide, thanks to their beautiful appearance and their nice characters.
I wrote this article about some of the things you should know about Goldens, because many of them end up in shelters, abandoned as soon as their owners have realized what having a dog really means.
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Meet The Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is one of Americas most popular family dogs.
Sitting at number 3 out of 194 on the American Kennel Clubs list of most popular dog breeds, the Golden Retriever is a beloved family dog for both his looks and his personality.
He is intelligent, loyal, and a friend to all, making him an excellent addition to any home with children and other household pets.
Goldens are happy dogs who enjoy life and are eager to please, easy to train, and enjoy making new friends of all shapes and sizes.
Golden Retrievers are also famous for their gorgeous, golden coats which are long, wavy, and soft. They are hardworking dogs and are some of the most popular choices for service dogs and emotional support or therapy dogs due to their loyal nature and ability to quickly and effectively learn.
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Is There Any Time That A Labrador Retriever Wouldnt Be Good For Apartment Life
Yes, there are certain times when a Labrador retriever wouldnt be good for apartment life. If the Labrador retriever isnt properly socialized or trained, this can make it more difficult for them to acclimate to a smaller area or one that doesnt have a yard outside.
Proper socialization and training will ensure that the Labrador retriever knows what is expected of them is this situation, which limits conflict and problems.
Another time that apartment life will not work for the Labrador retriever is when the apartment complex has rules about dogs, including size.
It is always essential to consult the landlord or leasing company before selecting a dog breed if it already lives in an apartment. For those Lab owners who are moving into an apartment, it best wise to consult first before selecting to prevent confusion and problems at move-in time.
Some, but not all, landlords can have strict rules about a dogs size and breed type. Certain dog breeds are not permitted in apartments due to the proximity to neighbors. Thankfully Labrador retrievers are not usually on this list as long as they are well behaved, socialized, and not aggressive.
The Golden Retriever Puppy Tips That Will Get You Through Those Training Days While Youre Working
Whether youre in an apartment or house, as with any puppy, the Golden will need some extra attention when potty training.
A good rule-of-paw is a puppy can only hold its bladder for one hour per month-of-age.
For example an eight-week-old puppy could hold its bladder for approximately two hours. The good news is the time increases after six months by one hour for every month old. However, it is never wise to leave your dog for longer than eight hours without a bathroom break.
Tip # 1 Puppys Own Safe Space
A useful tip in helping to train your GR puppy while your working is to use the crate system.
Purchase a crate that fits your puppy, but is not too large. Generally, your puppy should be able to stand up, turn around and lie back down inside the kennel.
This measurement provides comfort, but is not so roomy that your puppy will do his business at the back and sleep at the front.
Tip # 2 Morning Schedule
Our second tip is to be sure to give your Golden puppy plenty of exercise and opportunities in the morning to burn off some steam, eat and go to the bathroom before you leave for work.
Tip # 3 Could You Do Me a Favor?
If you cant get home during your lunch break, get a neighbor or family member to pop in to let your puppy out. This is also a good opportunity to have your puppy fed a light meal and allow him to play and to pee.
Tip # 4 Fun Stuff
Lastly, keep your GR pup from becoming bored and lonely while in his crate with some safe chew toys.
Sharing is caring!
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Challenges With Apartment Living
A golden retriever isnt probably the first thing you think of when you hear apartment pet. Face it theyre big, rambunctious animals.
Keeping a golden retriever happy and healthy in an apartment is absolutely doable, but its also hard work. If youre hoping for a nice, low maintenance pet, youre probably better off with a goldfish.
How Are Golden Retrievers With Strangers Children And Other Animals
Golden Retrievers are great with kids. The Harts give them a score of one when it comes to snapping at children, the best score they could get. They are also very playful and not very destructive, which makes them very good playmates for youngsters. Goldens are not velcro dogs, which means they dont bond with just one person in the family. They generally get along well with other dogs and animals
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The Golden Retriever Has A Winning Temperament
The Golden Retrievers desire to please is almost legendary. Because of that in combination with the dogs natural intelligence and outgoing nature, GRs are easy to train. They maintain a puppy-like spirit and playfulness well into adulthood, long past when other breeds have shed their puppy energy and enthusiasm. They are affectionate but not overprotective, and are a good size but not overbearing.
Finn chases after a ball in his backyard. Hes clearly bounding after it and is almost hyper-focused on getting it so that he can joyfully bring it back to his owner.
Do Golden Retrievers Bite
Yes, Golden Retrievers are known for their good-natured demeanor, but they are still dogs. Sometimes, Golden Retrievers will bite in response to fear or distress. Dogs bite as a reaction to something. If the dog finds himself in a stressful situation, he may bite to defend himself or his territory.
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Golden Retrievers Can Be Trained Well Thus Can Be Well
Golden retrievers have been known to be one of the most intelligent dogs on the Earth. These dogs are not only easy to train but also are eager to please us. They are willing to do anything for a praise and a good treat. As golden retrievers are also trained to become guide dogs or rescue dogs, it is totally possible to train him to behave well with kids.
Although golden retrievers are easily trained, the way you train them is essential. These dogs should always be trained in a gentle way and if you are too strict or use too much disciplines, they would not respond as well. For inexperienced dog owners, feel free to contact a dog trainer to assist you when training dogs, in particular golden retrievers, for best results.
Be Careful How Much You Feed Them
Yes, retrievers are very food driven breed. It is easy to overfeed apartment dogs, especially them.
As with humans, if dogs are eating more calories than they are burning, the surplus will store as fat.
Dogs are opportunistic scavengers by nature and will eat whenever food is available.
A classic example of this is when you come back home, and you find a garbage can tipped over and evidence all over your pups mouth. They will simply eat as much as they can.
If you are not home and your dog needs feeding, I would recommend using an automatic dog feeder with a timer, so your dog gets the right amount of food at the right time.
Why Is Obesity Dangerous?
- Lower life expectancy: Obesity can take up to 2 years from your dogs life. That is a lot when the average golden retriever lives 10-12 years!
- Lower quality of life: Carrying extra pounds takes its toll. Overweight dogs are slower, get tired quickly, and are less likely to play.
- Skin diseases: Extra skin folds are a great place for bacteria to multiply. This causes scratching, unpleasant body odor, and skin redness.
- Arthritis: All that extra weight puts pressure on a dogs joints. The cartilage in the joint deteriorates, which leads to arthritis.
- Obesity can also cause high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart attack, respiratory problems, cancer, and more.
What Can You Do About It?
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Are Golder Retrievers Good Apartment Dogs
Are Golden Retrievers Good Apartment Dogs? Yes , as long as they are given adequate exercise, are properly trained, are provided with frequent mental stimulation, and are groomed routinely, Golden Retrievers can adapt quite well to apartment living. Some breeds are famous for being really good apartment dogs.
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Are Golden Retrievers Friendly Enough For Apartment Complexes
Absolutely! Golden retrievers are one of the most friendly and social dog breeds there is. A Golden will be very excited to meet and play with the neighbors whenever they can. Keep in mind that not all the neighbors will like dogs, so be respectful of everyones space and individual preferences.
If any of your neighbors have problems with dogs, just avoid them when youre walking your retriever. Otherwise, you should be fine to have a Golden retriever in your apartment building!
While most Golden Retrievers are naturally super friendly, it is possible that your Golden will be wary and untrusting of people. With some patience and training, its likely that this will turn around quickly, and your Golden will soon be angling to be pet by anyone they can get near.
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Top Tips For Raising Your Golden Retriever In An Apartment
If youre still set on moving a golden retriever into your apartment, here are some great tips for making the transition as smooth as possible!
Make Sure The Apartment Is Safe
The most IMPORTANT thing you can do is to make sure that your apartment is safe for your pup. Obviously, make sure that theres nothing they can eat or bite that they shouldnt. But also, make sure that all your balcony and windows are dog proof and safe, especially when youre on a high floor.
Give Them Plenty Of Mental Stimulation
A good way to combat their boredom when youre not around is to make sure they have plenty of mental stimulation. For example, giving them puzzle toys to play with like KONGs can keep them entertained for hours.
When youre with them try playing with them, training them, and teaching them tricks as well! All of which are going to keep their mind stimulated and active.
And remember, theyre probably going to get bored of seeing the same surroundings all the time. So if you can, take them to lots of different places!
Let Them See The Whole Complex
If possible, you should try to walk them around the entire apartment complex. This way they any noises they seem strange will be understandable to them, and its a lot less likely theyll end up barking or getting nervous because of it.
Set Up A Routine For Them
As well as this, you could also try and get someone to pop in midday to make sure theyre okay and spend some time with them.
Consider A Dog Walking Service
Train Them
Appointments With The Vet
Make sure you dont miss out on setting up regular appointments with the vet. Living in an apartment facility, your dog will constantly be interacting with many people and animals. Any embrace or touch can accidentally result in transfer of diseases. Vaccinations will prevent any intense health issues and keep your pet healthy and fit.
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Taking Care Of Your Golden Retriever
Goldens require a fair amount of grooming. That beautiful coat does shed, especially during the change of seasons.
Like many pure-breed dogs, there are lots of warnings against conditions and diseases. You can get a comprehensive list here at the Prestige Animal Hospital website. One things to watch for is obesity. These dogs do tend to get chunky if you dont monitor their food intake.
Neutering Can Cause Health Issues To A Golden Retriever
Researchers at the University of California have discovered that neutering has negative effects on Golden Retrievers, increasing your dogs chances of getting joint disorders and cancer. In this post, Dr. Karen Becker talks about alternative methods of keeping your dog from breeding, such as a vasectomy or tubal ligation.
Even if you choose not to neuter your dog shes still prone to a long list of medical conditions, which include:
- hypothyroidism
- eye disorders
- skin problems.
If you own a Golden Retriever you need pet insurance that covers her for a wide range of health issues, besides accidents. This can increase your regular expenses, but its usually a good investment as Goldens are in the top of the most expensive breeds in terms of medical costs, with an average of $961 a year.
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Potty Training Without A Yard
The most difficult part of owning a dog of any size in an apartment has to be the potty-training stages. It is one thing if you can just open the door to a fenced backyard and let him go do his business.
That is not the case in an apartment.
You will need to put on your shoes, maybe get on the elevator, and head outside to someplace where your dog can do his chore.
This is where you have to ask yourself, How badly do I really want a dog? Understand the time and effort commitment is intense in the early months.
Even when your retriever gets bigger, you will need to leash her up and walk her outside. I think this is the biggest downside to dogs in apartments. That is the reality, however, of every breed, not just larger dogs.