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Do Golden Retrievers Get Cold

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#4: European Golden Retrievers Are Less Likely To Die From Cancer Than American Golden Retrievers

According to this study, 40% of golden retrievers from Europe will die from cancer, while 60% of golden retrievers in America will die from cancer.

Here’s a quote in Vet Street about why this is the case:

“When studied in a laboratory, the genes of American and U.K. Goldens are significantly different, suggesting that the risk of hemangiosarcoma is related to a relatively recent genetic alteration.”

#10: English Golden Retriever Breed Standards Are Different Than American Breed Standards

We’ve already talked about how a golden retriever is a golden retriever, and how they got the name “English” Cream, but here’s another chapter in that story.

The breed standards are different in the UK and in America.

In America, the breed standard for males is 23-24 inches tall at the withers and 21.5-22.5 inches for females.

In the UK, the breed standard is 22-24 inches tall for males and 20-22 inches tall for females.

So the UK is more accepting of shorter goldens, which is one of the common traits of English type goldens.

If My Golden Retriever Puppy Sheds Their Fur Coat Around Six Months Will They Have No Fur

No, your Golden Retriever puppy who sheds their fur coat around six months won’t be without any fur.  While the first shedding is the largest, they will still have fur.  This first shedding is the most significant but it doesn’t cause them to be hairless.

There may be thinner spots, and the process can vary from dog to dog but generally speaking, it will be an all-over shedding and thinning to make room for the new fur coat.

If, however, bald patches appear at any time until they reach eighteen months, they should be addressed with the puppy’s veterinarian to ensure nothing else is going on with their health.

How Do I Groom My Puppy At This Time That They Are Shedding Their Puppy Fur Coat

Grooming is a lifelong process, especially for a Golden Retriever who naturally have a lot of fur.  This long, thick, and dense hair can shed a lot, and the sooner pet parents and puppy get acquainted with the full grooming process, the better.

When a Golden Retriever puppy is six months old, it is essential to introduce them to the ritual of daily brushing if this hasn’t been done before. This part of their grooming is critical to keep their fur from ending up everywhere in the house, and reducing tangles and knotting.

These first brushing sessions should include lots of praise and treats but be short in time.  Taking them into a bathroom or other safe area where the fur can be contained, the pet parent can begin the process.

The pet parent can start brushing at the top and back of the puppy’s body and work their way to the front. Then repeat the process going front to back.  Then they can move to the underside of the puppy and repeat.  This promotes shiny fur while removing the excess shedding fur.

It is essential to be gentle with the puppy as they are little and have small bodies.  In the beginning, these brushing sessions need not be perfect just an attempt to minimize fur everywhere while helping the puppy get used to this care.  Praise and treats should be offered to enhance the experience.

These sessions should also include praise, treats, and perhaps some silly games or a break for fun.  How this is handled depends on the puppy and pet parent pair.

How Long Does It Take For Golden Retriever Puppies To Shed Their Puppy Coat

Do Golden Retrievers Get Cold? Learn How to Keep Your Dog ...

How long it takes for Golden Retriever puppies to shed their puppy coat depends on the individual dog.

While the process will begin at six months, it can take up to a full year from that point for them to get their complete adult fur coat.  This is just a guide, some puppies will have their complete adult fur coat sooner, some later.

Do Golden Retrievers Get Cold At Night 10 Ways To Keep Them Warm Outside

Health

Golden Retrievers like the cold weather, that’s no surprise, but even golden retrievers have limits when it comes to tolerating the cold. They may like the cold, but they were not built to live in the north pole, after all.

This made me wonder if golden retrievers can get at night when it gets really cold, and whether they need to stay inside and how can I help my own dogs stay warm when the temperature drops. So, I went ahead and did my research, and here is what I found.

Do golden retrievers get cold at night?  Yes, golden retrievers get cold at night, golden retrievers will start to feel the cold when the temperature is around 35°F, and they will get really cold if the temperature drops below 20°F . When it gets this cold,you should never leave your golden retriever outside at night.

There is more to that answer, to know more about how well do golden retrievers tolerate cold weather and how to keep them warm, Keep reading…

  • Helpful Resources
  • Factors That Determine How Cold Is Too Cold For Your Golden Retriever

    How cold your golden retriever feels will depend on more than just the temperature. Different dogs will feel the same temperature differently, and here are the 7 factors that determine how cold your golden retriever is actually feeling;

  • Weight 
  • Let’s go over each of these quickly;

    Weight

    You probably did not expect that one but weight can determine how cold your golden retriever is feeling.

    Their body fat can be a great insulator to protect them from the cold, which means that if your golden retriever is slightly overweight, they will tolerate the cold better than golden retrievers that are fitter and have less body fat.

    Age 

    Just like humans, senior golden retrievers can feel the cold easier than adult goldens and it is the same thing with puppies as well.

    Vets recommended that you should not leave your puppy or your senior golden outside in the cold because they can’t regulate their body’s temperature. Later in the article, we are going to discuss when and when not to leave your golden retriever outside.

    Health

    If your golden retriever is sick, they will not be the best to tolerate the cold weather because their body and immune system will be weaker than usual.

    Since they are weaker, they can catch diseases easier than healthier golden retrievers.

    Humidity 

    If you live in a place with high humidity, it can make your dog colder because humidity makes the air feel colder.

    Wind 

    Dampness 

    Clouds 

    #15: English Cream Golden Retrievers Make Good Therapy & Service Dogs

    Because golden retrievers have such good temperaments and are so smart, they are one of the most common breeds for service and therapy dogs.

    They’re patient, loving, and friendly, plus they’re big and strong enough for many tasks required of service dogs.

    In addition to being therapy and service dogs, goldens also make great search and rescue dogs and hunting dogs, which is what they were initially bred for.

    How Can I Keep My Golden Retriever Safe And Healthy In A Cold Winter

    Don’t Shave Your Goldens Coat

    It’s not advisable to shave your Golden’s coat, especially in the winter. As we said above, this coat is the Golden’s primary protection from environmental factors.

    Clean Your Golden Thoroughly After Outdoor Activity

    After the playtime is over and you are preparing to go inside, be sure that you properly and thoroughly clean your dog. This means cleaning its coat with a clean towel, and especially its legs and paws. These are the areas where salt, antifreeze, and other chemicals can accumulate. If not properly cleaned, your dog will lick its paws and, thus, ingest these hazardous chemicals that can cause irritation and poisoning.

    Never Leave Your Golden Retriever Outside Alone

    Always be near your Golden Retriever and monitor its activity and behavior in the cold winter conditions.

    Puppies And Older Dogs Are Vulnerable, Pay Special Attention

    As’s the case with humans, the most vulnerable categories of the Goldens population are the youngest and the elders. Puppies don’t have thick enough coat to cope with harsh winter conditions, and older dogs have a weaker immune system.

    Be Warry Of Antifreeze Spills

    Antifreeze is a highly toxic and poisonous liquid. Therefore, you must clean up all the spills immediately. 

    Never Leave A Golden Retriever Outside By Themselves In Cold Temps

    If the weather is freezing one day or the forecast says that it’ll get colder later in the day, don’t leave your Golden retriever outside by themselves. If you leave them out while you go to work or run errands, you won’t be there to keep an eye on them or see the signs that they are getting too cold.

    As you know, being cold can quickly turn into hypothermia, so not being around to notice their signals is dangerous for your pets.

    Why You Shouldnt Leave Your Golden Retriever Outside For Too Long

    There are many reasons why you shouldn’t leave your golden retriever outside for too long, in cold weather, your golden retriever should not be left in the cold for more than 30 minutes because they may suffer from hypothermia and frostbite.

    However, leaving your golden retriever for too long even if it’s not cold because it may lead your dog to separation anxiety, stress, and many behavioral issues.

    If one of your family members or a friend was wondering about the same thing, maybe you can share this article with them to help them out a little bit and certainly, I will appreciate it as well, hope you found it useful.

    In fact, I don’t think golden retrievers should live outside at all. I highly recommend you read my guide on why golden retrievers shouldn’t be outside dogs here.

    What Are The Steps To Protect Golden Retriever From Cold In Snow

    Golden Retrievers are for sure good with winter and cold temperatures. But still, these dogs are needy breeds. And through evolution over these years, they now have lesser resistance to cold weather.

    Therefore, here are some tips for keeping your Golden Retriever safe in colder temperatures:

    How do you manage to keep your pet warm in winter?

    #6: English Cream Golden Retrievers Have A Wonderful Temperament

    Do Golden Retrievers Get Cold in the Snow?

    Many people think that English Cream golden retrievers are more good-natured than their American counterparts.

    This depends on the individual dog, their pedigree, and how they’re raised.

    If you want a sweet, well-mannered dog, look at the parents, not the color.

    Remember, there’s technically only one type of golden retriever, and goldens are typically friendly and good-natured, so talk to the breeder about their dogs, what they breed them for, and what the temperaments of their dogs typically are like.

    If a breeder consistently produces sweet-tempered puppies, then no matter what the color, if you get a puppy from them they’re likely to be sweet-tempered as well.

    #17: English Cream Golden Retrievers Take A Long Time To Mature

    Golden retrievers, and larger breeds in general, mature slower than smaller breeds.

    Although golden retrievers may look like adults around one year old, mentally they’ll still act like crazy, stubborn puppies until they’re about two or three.

    These “teenage” years for dogs can be some of the toughest times for dog owners, but know that this is totally normal and will soon pass.

    That being said, a lot of people say that golden retrievers are like playful puppies for life, so expect to have a lot of fun with your golden throughout their lifetime.

    P.S. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook!

    Do Golden Retrievers Need Snow Boots When They Go Into The Snow

    This is another question that doesn’t have a clear yes or no answer.

    It depends on how cold winters get and how much you intend to keep the dog in the snow.

    Snow boots take a while to get used to, but they do work well in protecting your dog’s sensitive paws from a series of factors like:

    • Snow
    • Shredded ice
    • Chemicals used to deice the roads

    If you choose to have your Golden wear snow boots, make sure that his feet are dry before putting them on and that they are the type that improve grip, in order to prevent accidents.

    If you leave your dog barefoot in the snow, you will have to stop on occasion to clean between your dog’s toes.

    As Golden Retrievers have a long coat, snow tends to build up in their paws, and depending on how long they will be outside it can become very uncomfortable.

    Golden Retrievers love winter, and they are one of the best family dogs. You can be sure that a day out in the snow with children and even a sled can translate in loads of fun.

    As long as you pay attention to the signals that your dog is sending, and you take them to a warm place when they become uncomfortable, everything will be just fine!

    Do Golden Retrievers Get Cold Learn How To Keep Your Dog Warm

    Lindsay

    Don’t you love the ever-so cheerful and playful golden retriever? The way they snuggle with their owner and obey their every command makes everyone fall in love with them. There is no secret that golden retrievers are happy and loving dogs, which is why they make for an ideal family pet. Another widely known fact is that this dog breed is always eager to please its owner. And that’s one of the reasons why golden retrievers are willing to obey their owner’s commands. However, it’s important to give them nice treats as a reward so that they continue obeying their master.

     

    Make Sure That Your Golden Retriever Has A Warm Place To Rest

    A cozy bed and warm blanket are all it takes to shoo away winter chills. Make sure that you provide these comforts to your pets after they come inside.

     

    Also, make sure that you keep the bed and blanket away from an open window or drafts. Keep the house warm and cozy so that the indoor temperature doesn’t drop too much.

     

    Make Sure Your Golden Retriever Is Dry Before Heading Outside

    Never walk your Golden retriever when they are wet during the winter, such as right after bath time. Their wet coats will make them feel chilled to the bone, especially if it’s windy outside. Therefore, you should always towel them off well, and give them several hours to fully dry before heading out into the elements.

    Similarly, before you come back inside your house, remove any snow or ice that’s become trapped in their coats as this will prevent them from becoming chilled once they’re back in the house.

    What Should Be A Safe Location For Your Retriever To Live In

    Generally, golden retrievers love staying outside, unless there are life-threatening weather conditions outdoors. Their long fur keeps them warm even in very low temperatures. Despite that, it’s important to keep checking the condition of the weather outside.

    If you are away and it starts raining or snowing, the first thing you should do when you get home is to give the dog a dry and warm environment immediately. Make its body dry if it is wet.

    If you will be traveling for long periods of time, provide your retriever with an insulated doghouse, built a few inches above the ground, where the temperature would suit your dog perfectly.

    It is also against animal rights to keep any dog in extreme conditions. As such, a law has been passed that restricts owners from leaving their dog tied outside in extreme temperatures for more than 30 minutes.

    You can let your golden retriever stay outside under the following conditions:

    • It feels comfortable outside.
    • The weather is not extreme.
    • There is no snow or rain.

    In short, keep this simple formula in mind: if you feel uncomfortable with the temperature, then it is not going to be any comfortable for your dog. If the water feels cold for you to stand in it, then the same water is not safe for your dog to stand in it either. Being a golden retriever dog owner, you should be aware of when your dog feels too cold to stay outside.

    How To Tell If Your Golden Is Feeling Too Hot Inside The Car

    At the other end of the temperature range, a Golden Retriever might get uncomfortable in the car and get dehydrated quickly on normal days; they need to be observed for heat signs during the summers. 

    While in motion, keeping the air conditioner turned on is preferable; when parked, windows rolled all the way down helps the circulation of air from the outside.

    Note: Many countries have laws that prohibit leaving an unattended pet inside a parked vehicle.

    On warm and sunny days, the temperature inside a car, even with windows rolled down, can quickly get warmer than outside, by 15 – 20 degrees, in a matter of minutes. This can dehydrate your pet and sometimes be quite dangerous.

    When your pet is panting profusely or appears too exhausted, it is probably dehydrated. Additionally, it may throw up or lay motionless, almost unconscious, momentarily.

    How To Keep Your Golden Retrievers Warm Outside In The Snow

    Do Golden Retrievers Get Cold?

    Golden retrievers should not be outside alone in the snow for too long but if it’s time for their daily walk or they want to play outside here a couple of things you can do to keep them warm outside in the snow.

    • Never underestimate boots 

    Let’s go over each of these really quickly:

    Never underestimate boots 

    You can get your golden retriever doggy boots, which are not only adorable but also will keep them warm and protect them from the snow. This is very useful if your dog loves licking their paws after playing in the snow, as you really don’t want them to lick any of the salt or dirt that’s in the snow.

    The salt and other chemicals that are used to melt the snow on roads can irritate their skin, paws, and it can be toxic if they licked and that is why boots are great. 

    If you’re looking for good boots for your dog, I highly recommend checking out the . They are anti-slip, weather-proof, affordable, and comfortable for your dog. My dogs love them, and I think yours may too.

    It’s sweater weather 

    Everyone loves sweater weather so why not get one for your pup to keep them warm and to rock a new look.

    Just like the boots, the sweater can protect your pup from snow stuck in their coat. A sweater is a good option for larger dogs in really cold weather , and a necessity for younger dogs. Check out my article on golden retriever sweaters here to find great recommendations there.

    Healthy nutrientious food 

    Water access 

    Self-heated blanket 

    Exercise is important 

    Cold weather gear

    History Of Golden Retrievers With Snow And Cold Temperature

    There is no debate that Golden Retrievers originated in the 1870s, and British dog breed Lord Tweedmouth holds the sole credit for their origination. But as you flip the pages of history, you will find that these breeds were from Scotland.

    Further, Scotland isn’t unfamiliar with cold and snow. Thus, temperature dropping nearly below 32 ºF isn’t new there. Besides this, some parts of this country hold a record of getting colder to -16 ºF in winter.

    Owing to their Scottish origin, Golden Retrievers are more likely to do great in cold temperatures. But as the present, these breeds are a result of centuries of evolution and several mixed breeding.

    Nowadays, these dogs are more like family dogs living and comforting in warmer places than cold.

    Health Issues For Your Pup When The Temperature Is Too Hot:

    Dehydration- Your Canine gets dehydrated when the temperature is too hot for the pup. It is advisable to avoid extreme temperature conditions.

    Signs of dehydration:

    As per the American kennel club, the signs you need to look for checking dehydration in dogs are reduced energy level, decreased or loss of appetite, panting, lethargy, sunken eyes, and loss of skin elasticity, and dry nose/ gums.

    Hyperthermia- Hyperthermia in dogs leads to Heat stress, Heat Exhaustion, and Heatstroke. It can occur in the spring season when the temperature will be volatile in day and night.

    Canines need time to adjust to the temperatures.

    Treatment for Hyperthermia:

    Cool your Canine’s temperature as soon as possible. Dip your pup’s body in a cool swimming pool.

    Cover your Canine’s body with a towel submerged in icy water. Dogs can lose consciousness due to hyperthermia, so move your Canine to shade or place her in a room with a fan or air conditioner.

    Fever- when the temperature of a being increases, it is termed as fever. Fever in dogs occurs when it plays in high temperatures or when it does excessive exercise continuously in humid conditions.

    How To Properly Dress My Golden Retriever For A Cold Winter

    Even though Golden Retrievers are very well adapted to snow and cold weather, you need to add other layers of protection to keep your dog safe. The majority of Goldens don’t need this, but puppies and older dogs should wear booties and a warm sweater or jacket.

    Good-quality booties will protect your Golden’s pads from salt and snow. On the other hand, a jacket or warm sweater will add additional protection from cold. This is especially beneficial for puppies and older dogs that don’t have a coat as thick as Goldens in their prime.

    #12: English Cream Golden Retrievers Need Lots Of Exercise

    Golden retrievers were bred to hunt all day, so they naturally have tons of energy.

    They’re also very smart dogs, so they need to be stimulated both physically and mentally.

    Here are some ways to do that:

    • Play fetch or tug
    • Train them
    • Feed them through puzzle toys or frozen kongs
    • Take them on long walks and let them sniff around

    #19: English Cream Golden Retrievers Need Lots Of Grooming

    English Cream goldens have beautiful coats, but they do require lots of care and grooming.

    You’ll need to brush them several times per week and bathe them 1-2 times per month, depending on if they swim or play outside a lot.

    In addition to their coats, you’ll need to regularly brush their teeth, trim their nails, take care of their paws, and clean their ears.

    What Is The Normal Body Temperature Of A Golden Retriever

    The normal body temperature of a golden retriever and dogs, in general, is between 101° F and 102.5° F, and compared to humans it’s 97.6° F to 99.6° F.

    If your dog’s temperature dropped below normal, give them something warm to drink and cover them with a blanket if the temperature stays the same then you need to take them to the vet immediately. 

    How Can You Keep Golden Retrievers Active In Cold Weather

    Even though Golden Retrievers love winter, there are lots of limitations in this weather. Since your pet is more reluctant to get cold during too humid, windy, or snowy weather, exercising or training seems impossible during these conditions.

    However, Golden Retrievers still need physical activities to strain themselves so that they can be calm. So, in this case, try some indoor activities instead of relying on the weather and making excuses.

    Thus, here are some exercises that I follow when I can’t take my pet out. I hope it will be helpful for you too.

    #5: English Cream Golden Retrievers Have A Lifespan Of 10

    Do Golden Retrievers Get Cold in the Snow?

    Many people think that English Cream goldens live longer than other types of goldens.

    The lifespan of a golden retriever does not necessarily have to do with the color of the coat or the “type” of golden retriever.

    The more important thing to consider if you want a golden retriever who’s likely to have a long, happy life is to find a quality breeder that breeds healthy dogs.

    Yes, you may find many English Cream golden retriever breeders breed healthy dogs, but you also may find other golden retriever breeders produce healthy pups as well.

    Golden Retrievers Have One Of The Highest Rates Of Cancer

    Cancer is a huge concern among all dog owners because it is the leading cause of death among dogs over the age of 2. Nearly half of all dogs will be diagnosed with some form of cancer over the age of 10.

    Unfortunately, the incidence of cancer is slightly higher in Golden Retrievers. About 61% of Golden Retrievers in the US will die from cancer according to a study done by Purdue University along with the Golden Retriever Club of America in 1998.

    A survey done by the UK Kennel Club in 2004 indicates that about 38% of European Golden Retrievers die from cancer. European Golden Retrievers develop cancer at a lower rate because their genes are different.

    A few decades ago Golden Retrievers did not have such a high rate of cancer. The lifespan of a Golden Retriever was 15-17 years old in the mid-1900s to the early 2000s. Today their lifespan is 10-12 years according to Wikipedia.


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