What Is The Perfect Home For A Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers can feel cramped inside small apartments, but if they have a huge yard to run around in, they will thrive. If you have an active household, then retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for families. Theyre the perfect partner for hikes and runs, but keep this in mind if you live a busy lifestyle. If you dont have the time to take your retriever out for long walks or runs once daily, your furniture is at risk.
Normal Dog Behaviors Versus Abnormal Behaviors
Dogs naturally dig, bark, express fear in certain situations, mark territory, chase small animals, and jump.
They may steal food. Or want to be with us all the time.
Goldens were bred to be sociable, high-energy dogs. Theyâre bred to retrieve.
So we shouldnât be surprised when they become pushy for attention or always have to carry something in their mouths.
My rescued golden Spencer almost always had to carry something in his mouth. So I made sure there were safe toys for him to happily tote around.
Unfortunately, many dogs are given up to shelters because of behaviors that can be modified.
Many people get a young golden and arenât aware of all thatâs involved in teaching him our rules.
Goldens are high-energy hunting dogs who donât mature until theyâre three or four years old.
To have a great companion takes a lot of work, patience, and time.
Itâs up to us, as dog owners, to be aware of our dogâs drives, personality, and needs. And to meet those needs.
This article wonât cover in detail abnormal canine behaviors.
These should be dealt with by behavior specialists who can evaluate the individual dog and determine the best behavior modification plan.
And itâs always important to have your dog get a full physical from a vet when dealing with any behavior problem.
These abnormal behaviors include aggression to those around the dog, obsessive-compulsive disorders, shutting down, and severe separation anxiety.
Golden Retriever Grooming Suggestions
The Goldens long, beautiful coat comes at a price. It requires lots of brushing to maintain its condition. You should brush your Golden Retrievers coat at least once a week, however, once a day is optimal. You should bathe your Golden at least once a month. Depending on how dirty he gets on hikes, you may have to bathe him more frequently.
For optimal Golden Retriever health, check your Golden Retrievers nails once a month. Goldens tend to file down their nails when they exercise, but sometimes they do need a nail trim. Brushing their teeth 2-3 times a week will help prevent dental health issues by decreasing the buildup of tartar and bacteria.
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My Dog Nibbles On Me Why Do Dogs Nibble
This is another behavior that is considered to be affectionate in nature and is known to be a grooming nibble. When this happens your dog is significantly more relaxed as opposed to when theyre mouthing affection. Not only will they do this on their favorite humans but they may do this to a treasured toy or other animals in the home they have bonded with.
Dogs give grooming nibbles to those they trust, including other pets, so the action doesnt hurt as they will only use their front teeth to slightly graze you. Dogs that understand biting inhibition will not nibble hard as they are able to acknowledge that human skin can be vulnerable.
English Golden Retriever Temperament
English Golden Retrievers have a very similar temperament to all other Golden Retrievers.
However, because these Golden Retrievers are obviously the result of different breeding pairs, they might show slight differences due to their genetics.
But these differences are so minute that it is not likely that they are overtly noticeable.
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Golden Retrievers Are Sporting Dogs
Golden Retrievers are part of the Sporting Group. They were originally bred for hunting. Therefore, your Golden Retriever will have a moderately high energy level and will need an outlet for its energy.
Although they are not as exuberant as some working or herding breeds, such as Border Collies or Australian Cattle Dogs Golden Retrievers are active, athletic dogs.
If you expect your Golden Retriever to lie around the house all day, you will likely have a bored and destructive dog on your hands.
Golden Retriever exercise is extremely important. Make sure to set aside at least 30 to 45 minutes of aerobic exercise each day.
Golden Retrievers love to go for long walks and jogs with their owners. One of the best ways to exercise your Golden Retriever is with a long game of fetch in the backyard. As their name implies, these dogs are excellent retrievers.
Whats So Special About The Weimaraner Dog
A Husky Mixed with a Golden Retriever is an extremely loyal and intelligent dog. Although they are large, they are great around children and do well in a household with several pets. Their loyalty to their owners will ensure that they are taken care of and loved, and they are highly sociable. The following are some of the characteristics of the Husky mixed with a Golden Retriever.
A Husky Mixed with a Golden Retriever has the classic personality of a loyal dog. They will always follow the pack leader, and they have endless love for people. Despite their high energy levels, the Husky-Golden Retriever mix is a highly sociable, lovable dog. If you are looking for a friendly and loyal companion, this is the breed for you. If you want a dog that will protect you and your family, consider getting a Husky-Golden Retriever mix.
Their breed mix makes them an excellent choice for active people who enjoy playing with their dogs. A Husky-Golden Retriever mix will be both loyal and affectionate. A Husky-Golden combination will be a good dog for those who want an active dog.
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Golden Retrievers Have Webbed Feet
Golden retrievers were bred to retrieve gunned down birds back in the 1800s in Scotland.
They were sometimes required to swim through marshes and wetlands, and one of the characteristics that helped them succeed at that is their webbed feet.
The first golden retrievers were a mix between a Tweed Water Spaniel and a wavy-coated retriever, which gave them these webbed feet.
Its not very obvious that they have them, since they keep their toes close together and their feet are furry, but next time you clip your goldens nails, check it out!
Should You Own A Golden
Golden Retrievers are wonderful, right? Well then, of course everyone should have one. Actually no they arent suitable for every family. Its important to consider some key qualities of a golden before deciding to own one. For some people, these qualities are features. For others, they are bugs. Either way, it is vital that you examine your own lifestyle, needs and wants to see if a golden is right for you. And, conversely, you need to evaluate if you can meet the needs of a golden retriever. If you can, we can attest to the fact that owning a golden is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have! They are addicting and people seldom have just one in their lifetimes. Once you have a golden, youre usually hooked for life.
Here are a few things to consider:
Size
Goldens are medium to large sized animals. The standard size for males range from 23 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh proportionally from 65-75 pounds. Females stand around 21.5 22.5 inches and weigh 55-65 pounds. They normally possess extremely active tails making clean sweeps of coffee and end tables. Quite simply they need room. Uncluttered houses are a must!
Exercise
Velcro Dog
Leashes
You may have visions of letting your dog play fetch in an open field or running free on the beach. As a sporting dog they are easily distracted by birds, animals or moving objects they must be kept leashed when being exercised outside of a fenced yard to keep them from running off.
Shedding
Health
Care
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Life Expectancy Of A Golden Irish
Life Expectancy is another thing that can be very difficult to determine. If you are ever worried about your dogs health, you will want to contact your dogs veterinarian.
Irish Setters have a life span of 12 to 15 years, and a Golden Retriever has a life span of 10 to 12 years. So, expect your dog to live between 10 to 15 years long, and this will all depend on your dogs health.
How To Stop Your Golden Retriever From Pulling On The Leash
There are two ways to get your golden to stop pulling on the leash:
If theyre walking nicely next to you, give them praise and treats.
But when they pull, they want to go forward, so if you let them go forward, youre reinforcing that behavior.
Instead, stop or turn in the other direction.
Eventually, theyll learn that pulling doesnt get them what they want, but sticking by your side does.
Also, the more tired your golden is, the less likely theyll pull.
So before you go for a walk on a leash, play inside or in the backyard with them to get the edge off.
Click here to learn about teaching your golden retriever to walk on a leash without pulling.
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Golden Retriever Puppy Mills
When it comes to the personality and temperament of a Golden Retriever, the topic of puppy mills is important to discuss. Every popular dog is going to fall victim to the puppy mill phenomenon, but it seems Labs and Goldens often have it worse.
With such a high demand for these breeds, an array of irresponsible breeders will stress a larger focus on quantity rather than quality, producing Goldens that no matter how well socialized, trained, or loved will simply demonstrate poor traits. Thats why its incredibly important with this breed to ensure that your breeder is reputable, clearances have been given to the parents, and that their personalities are on par with that of the quintessential Golden Retriever.
There are plenty of cases out there in which a poorly bred Golden Retriever contradicts the breeds stereotype, and this is often the case of irresponsible breeding. For a breed as popular and coveted as the Golden Retriever, do your research and know your breeder.
Training Your Golden Retriever
The intelligent Golden Retriever temperament makes this dog a fairly easy dog to train.
These dogs are sometimes even trained as guide dogs for the blind and service dogs for the physically disabled.
Golden retrievers are food motivated and they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Never use harsh punishments or painful training tools such as shock collars, pinch collars or choke chains.
In terms of Golden Retriever temperament problems, one issue that sometimes arises is your Golden Retriever jumping up and biting at hands or clothing.
This behavior is usually a product of too much pent up energy. Your dog is probably not trying to be aggressive he is most likely trying to play.
Try increasing exercise and training. If the problem persists, consult with a professional positive reinforcement trainer.
The Online Dog Trainer by Doggy Dan a world-class Dog Trainer from New Zealand is worth taking a look at. This online resource has hundreds of fun informative dog training videos that can help you learn the basics and more.
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Golden Retrievers Are So Popular In Movies Due To Their Obedient Nature
Golden Retrievers are often featured in movies and television shows, including Air Bud and Homeward Bound. While the breed is certainly cute, it’s not their beauty that gets Goldens so many television spots. It’s their mellow nature, combined with their trainability.
Golden Retrievers are easy to train, and they perform reliably and consistently. That’s what makes them such popular guide dogs, and it’s also what led the breed to take first in AKC obedience trials when they were introduced in 1977.
Choosing A Golden Retriever Breeder
Finding a good breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy, and will without question have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems as much as is possible. He or she is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than in making big bucks.
Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances and what the dogs are like to live with and come right back at you with questions of their own about what youre looking for in a dog and what kind of life you can provide for him.
The Golden Retriever Club of America is a good place to start your search for a responsible breeder. Look for a breeder who abides by the club’s code of ethics, which does not permit the sale of puppies through brokers, auctions or commercial dealers such as pet stores. Breeders should sell puppies with a written contract guaranteeing they’ll take back the dog at any time during his life if you become unable to keep him, and with written documentation that both the puppy’s parents have had their hips, eyes, elbows and hearts examined and certified by the appropriate health organizations. Seek out a breeder whose dogs are active in agility, obedience and other sports that require athleticism and good health, and not just ribbons from the show ring.
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Irish Setter Golden Retriever Mix Coat
The coat of your Irish Setter Golden Retriever mix will be long and quite dense. This is a mix that will shed a lot, so it is important to know that upfront if you suffer from dog allergies and cant handle shedding.
The coat is typically straight, but you may notice your dog having a slight wave. Most will just get the straight coat. Keep reading on to see the colors your dog will come in.
History Of The Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers originated from the Scottish Highlands, where they were used primarily as hunting dogs. The Scottish estate owners needed a dog that could retrieve birds either in water or on land because their hunting grounds had many ponds and marshes. As guns were improved, retrievers needed to be able to bring back birds from farther distances.
To develop the ideal retriever, the Baron of Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, crossed a Tweed water spaniel with a yellow-colored retriever. The four pups were then used in further breeding with lines including the Irish setter, bloodhound, St. John’s water dog, and black retrievers. He kept detailed records throughout the later years of the 19th century, showcasing the goal of developing a dog with a soft mouth for retrieving game but that was also strong and active. The breed gained popularity in England and was recognized by The Kennel Club of England in 1911.
During the early 20th century, golden retrievers were introduced to North America as both a hunting dog and a companion. The golden retriever was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1925. When the AKC debuted the AKC Obedience Champion title in 1977, the first three dogs to earn the designation were golden retrievers. Presidential golden retrievers include those owned by Gerald R. Ford and Ronald Reagan.
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References And Further Reading
- Serpell, James. Effects of breed, sex, and neuter status on trainability in dogs. Anthrozoos. 2015.
- Berg. Phenotyping of Aggressive Behavior in Golden Retriever Dogs with a Questionnaire. Behavior Genetics. 2006.
- Serpell, James. Development and validation of a novel method for evaluating behavior and temperament in guide dogs. Applied Animal Behavior Science. 2001.
- Duffy, Deborah. Predictive validity of a method for evaluating temperament in young guide and service dogs. Applied Animal Behavior Science. 2012.
- Ott, Stefanie. Is there a difference? Comparison of Golden Retrievers and dogs affected by breed-specific legislation regarding aggressive behavior. Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research. 2008.
- Liinamo, Anna-Elisa. Genetic variation in aggression-related traits in Golden Retriever dogs. Applied Animal Behavior Science. 2007.
Lookin For Small Dog No Shed
Husky mixed with Golden Retriever is a popular mix of two dogs, the Siberian Husky and the Golden Retriever. The two breeds are large and friendly and they are good with children. While the Husky is more adaptable than a golden, it requires a lot of attention from its owners and can be a difficult dog to train. However, if you have the time and the patience, this breed can make a wonderful family pet.
If youre considering adopting a Husky Mixed with Golden Retriever, youll want to keep this in mind. This type of mix has high energy and will need plenty of exercise and space. Theyre a good choice for households that have a large yard or open area. They need to be taken to open spaces at least twice a day, and theyre not ideal for apartment dwellers.
Husky mixed with Golden Retriever puppies can be independent and obnoxious. The Husky origin can lead to some pups becoming misbehaving and ignoring you. Some may also be very intolerant and unobedient to training. A strong prey drive can cause them to chase smaller animals, such as cats and squirrels, so you may have to supervise your pup more closely.
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Reason #: They Love People
Kids, adults, babies, grandmothers Golden Retrievers love them all.
A Golden is most happy when theyre with their family.
But they dont just love spending time with their own families.
In fact, theres a group of Goldens called the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs that show up and provide comfort for victims, families, and first responders after tragedy has struck.
Theyve been there for tragic events such as the Pulse shooting in Orlando, the Sandy Hook shooting in Connecticut, and after Hurricane Sandy in NY and NJ.
Goldens make great therapy dogs because of their sweet personalities and love for people.
This is definitely my favorite trait about Golden Retrievers.