Are They Healthy Dogs
While Golden Retrievers are generally considered healthy dogs, they are susceptible to a number of conditions, such as:
Elbow Dysplasia
This is an inherited condition common in larger breeds where the bones that make up the elbow joint develop abnormally. It can be very painful and result in lameness.
Hip Dysplasia
This is also an inherited condition where the thighbone doesnt fit properly into the hip joint. Like elbow dysplasia, it can cause pain and lameness.
Hypothyroidism
With this disease, the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone that helps regulate metabolism. This can lead to weight gain, skin issues, and heart problems. Luckily, it can often be treated with prescription medication.
Cataracts
Like humans, these dogs can get cataracts as they age, causing a cloudy film to form over the eye. Cataracts typically need surgical correction.
Heart Disease
Golden Retrievers are prone to heart problems, particularly a disorder called sub-aortic stenosis, which causes a narrowing of the aorta and can lead to sudden death. This makes it especially important to schedule annual check-ups, so your veterinarian can listen for heart murmurs and other signs of this disease.
Cancer
Skin cancer, bone cancer, and other variations of this disease can be common in Golden Retrievers. Our illness coverage includes cancer, which can be very helpful since treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can be costly.
Allergies
Skin Problems
Ear Infections
Golden Retrievers Need Exercise
I can relate to your dilemma our familys Golden Retriever, Shakira, has always been high-strung and energetic, and even with age, she has only shown small decreases in her activity level. She was from a hunting line of dogs, and even though shes not a field trial canine, her desire to be one is so genetically ingrained that she will fetch for hours on end, and we like to joke that her brain consists of two neurons attached to a tennis ball. Weve learned to appreciate Shakiras personality as part of what she was originally bred to do. Weve also found that keeping her involved in our daily routine of chores around the ranch, combined with twice-daily play sessions that leave her panting tired, helps her settle down. Even though shes 12 and blind, Shakira still has energy to spare, but weve helped her to channel that energy into outlets that fit her desire as well as our lifestyle.
How Much Do 8 Week Old Golden Retriever Puppies Sleep
Golden retriever puppies sleep about eighteen hours during the day and six at night. When they are little, they will be close to their mother most of time for warmth and nursing. At eight weeks old, golden retriever puppies eyes are open but they cant see well. Their ears start picking up sounds with clarity now. They have started eating solid food which is more difficult to digest than milk so by the time you feed him again hell be sleeping off that indigestion- allowing an opportunity for his stomach more recover before being fed again.Its really common for a Golden Retriever puppy around this age to appear tired or sleepy all the time.The article continues on to describe how it is not.
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Is There More To Jumping Than Just Excitement
Most golden retrievers are saying hello in the only way they know how. Some dogs, however, jump up to express more than just an excited greeting.
If your dog jumps up while growling or barking, they could be showing aggression, not excitement.In addition to growling and/or barking, aggressive dogs might muzzle punch , become still and rigid, lunge at visitors, and potentially bite.
Luckily this is rare in golden retrievers who are bred for their gentle temperaments as much as any looks, but if your dog has a history of aggression, or you feel theyre showing aggression when greeting people, please consult a professional trainer or a behavioral modification specialist. It is not a behavior that can be taken lightly or treated yourself.
You can read more about aggression from this link at the ASPCA.
Golden Retriever Matted Hair: Do You Need Golden Retriever Grooming
Do you need a Golden Retriever to groom? The short answer to that is yes. Golden Retrievers have a beautiful golden double coat that doesnt need a lot of daily care, but the weekly brushing is wise, particularly when its shed. Besides shaving, your Golden will need to trim their thighs, heels, and ears.
You can take your Golden to the grooming lounge, but you can also take care of yourself. Here are a few tips and suggestions to get you started.
Its smart to start brushing when your Golden is only a puppy. A young puppys coat doesnt need to be groomed yet, but this way, your Golden Pup will get acquainted with the brush, the scissors, touching and stroking him or her, looking at his or her teeth by opening the mouth, etc.
This will make the grooming experience a good one for both you and your dog. Your local grooming salon will also be glad that your pup will encourage people to contact him or her if you plan to take your dog to the groomer!
Some dogs enjoy being washed, groomed, and bathed. Goldens need to be brushed regularly, and they need to be brushed every other day while theyre grinding. You should check the skin and skin of your Golden Retriever for wounds or parasites when brushing your Golden Retriever.
Some Simple Tips To Improve The Straight Hair Of Golden Retrievers
Therefore, here are some hair care tips for your Golden Retriever:
The comment box is eagerly waiting for your reviews and suggestions.
- Proper diet
- Consult their vet
Proper diet
Daily grooming
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You Must Make Room For Your Dog And Her Hair
Golden Retrievers are mediumlarge dogs. A male Golden is about 23-24 inches tall and weighs between 60 and 75 pounds . Females are smaller, but they still need space to move, being 20-22 inches tall and weigh between 55 and 70 pounds .
Youll have to give your dog enough room to move freely around the house. Having a yard can be helpful, but as Goldens are very social dogs theyll prefer staying inside with their families rather than running around by themselves outdoors. So be sure your house or apartment is large enough to host such an active and intelligent dog, even if youve got a yard.
The dog isnt the only thing youll see around the house all day. Free your schedule for cleaning up hair as Golden Retrievers shed all year, becoming heavier in spring and autumn. The easiest way to reduce the amount of lost hair is by brushing your dog 3-5 time a week, for about 15 minutes. However, youll still need a powerful pet hair vacuum cleaner to remove the mess from your carpets and sofa.
Who Is The Best Human For A Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are a tried and true family dog. They love swimming , running, and playing in a big backyard. Theyre highly social, so a large and active family household works well for them. They also need plenty of affection and snuggles. Due to their hunting heritage, they love to play fetch! Looking to please you, theyre relatively easy to train.
Theyre great with children and seniors alike. Golden retrievers do best with plenty of companionship, and so despite their activity level, often do very well with retirees who can devote plenty of time to them.
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Four On The Floor: How To Keep Your Dog From Jumping Up
You hold the keys to your dogs heart but also the key to their failures and successes. Behavior modification can be done, and its up to you to train it.
Yes, it takes patience. Yes, it can be frustrating, but your dog truly wants to please you, and will learn this important skill if you are steadfast in your training.
Here are four methods you can use to help you keep your dog from jumping up.
Keep Them Company Outside
Making sure youre outside at the same time as your dog, means youll be there to re-inforce good behavior. You could play with them in the garden, and give them toys that they may instinctively try to bury, but teach them it is bad to dig, and praise them if they play with the toy in a more acceptable way.
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Quick Glossary Of Spay & Neuter Terms
Before we get into the specifics of spaying and neutering a Golden retriever it may be helpful to have a list of terms and definitions associated with these processes.
- Spay Spay is the specific term giving to the procedure of removing a female dogs reproductive organs.
- Neuter Neuter is the term giving to the procedure of removing a male dogs testicles.
- Fixed The term fixed is used to describe a dog that has been surgically spayed or neutered.
- Altered Altered also refers to a dog that has been surgically rendered unable to reproduce offspring.
- Intact The term intact means a dog whos ability to reproduce has not been altered in any way.
How Long Does The Puppy Stage Last In Golden Retrievers
The puppy stage for a golden retriever usually lasts until the dog reaches six months of age, after it has fully stopped teething. Golden retrievers are often described as big puppies because they never stop playing and always want to interact with their owners or other people.Golden retrievers are usually housebroken by the time they reach 6 months of age, but if your dog is older than 6 months and has not yet been fully house trained dont give up! Teaching an old dog new tricks can develop into 10 minutes of bonding between owner and pet that is well worth it in the end.Additionally, if your golden retriever is only five or six months old you might consider reinforcing the command.
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How To Stop Your Golden Retriever From Digging
Digging comes naturally to dogs, so dont be surprised if your golden is a digger.
To stop destructive digging, make sure your golden is physically and mentally stimulated enough.
A tired dog will likely not be a digging dog.
You can also redirect their attention with a toy or a game.
Also, dont leave them outside alone where theyre free to dig to their hearts content if you dont want them to be digging.
But if they really really love digging, you can give them a safe and less destructive outlet to dig, like their own sandbox.
What Is The Best Age To Get A Golden Retriever Puppy
The best age to get a golden retriever puppy depends on what you plan to do with the puppy during its first few months. If you will be working all day and only want a companion dog for those three hours each day, then starting at 8 weeks old is fine and probably advisable.If you want your pup to socialize and experience as much as possible in their first year ? including going places ? then waiting until theyre closer to 3 months old might be better, because theyre still pliable enough that we can work with them . I recommend trying at least one toileting or walking session per week if possible, even if it.
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Spaying And Neutering Golden Retrievers
Spaying and neutering are the most common surgical procedures performed on dogs, including Golden Retrievers. Spaying and neutering are the best ways to slow down the population growth of our pets in order to ensure most pups have a safe place to call home. It can also prevent certain health conditions and decrease unwanted behavioral issues in your much-loved Golden.
You Love Golden Retrievers Here Are 5 Things You Should Know About Them
If you love playing with a furry friend for hours, a Golden Retriever is probably the perfect dog for you. These dogs are loving, playful and smart they have limitless energy and have a very even temperament. They are eager and amiable and are a perfect family dog. If you are considering welcoming a Golden Retriever in your family, here are five things you should know about them.
1. Coat and Colour
Golden Retrievers are distinguished by their golden-brown coat, they are well proportioned and a charming smile. Goldens have quite a wide head and snout, a brown nose, brown eyes and hanging ears. They have a sturdy neck, broad muscular shoulders and a broad chest. They have long, straight tails and have thick water-resistant fur. Their fur can be flat, wavy or even feathered and they can be any colour from cream to a golden brown.
2. Friendly, energetic and confident dogs
3. Golden Retrievers like to have fun!
Golden Retrievers tend to pick a lot of things up in their mouths like a stick or shoe. If they find something they like, they will carry it around for quite a while! Make sure he doesnt take a liking to one of your things, or it will become very slobbery. Retrievers are not the best guard dogs. They normally welcome strangers and are friendly with almost anyone. They have been known to sometimes bark at a stranger at the door though.
4. Nothing like seeing Goldens in action!
5. Taking care of Goldens
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Preparing For The Commitment
Why Do Golden Retrievers Make Great Assistance Dogs
Milli and her hero assistance dog Emma from Dogs for Good on Vimeo.
Golden retrievers are, unsurprisingly enough, great at retrieving! Members of the gun dog group, they are very motivated to pick up and carry things in their soft mouths. They deliver the item gently, without marking or damaging it.
Very well-mannered and sociable dogs who greet adults, children and other dogs graciously, golden retrievers are generally very steady on the lead. Goldies hate being left on their own for long so be prepared to include them in as much as you can.
Dogs for Good trainer, Clare, is a big fan of goldies: Theyre incredibly loving, kind, and gentle and they form really strong bonds with people which makes them great assistance dogs for our clients.
They dont forget who theyve given their love to, either there are golden retrievers Ive trained and then see years later who still remember me and greet me like a long-lost friend.
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Watch The World Go By
Although you cant take your pup for walks just yet, you can still start teaching them that the outdoors is a rather nice place to be.
How to do it:
TIPS
This exercise is all about building positive associations with the outside world, so no need to rush.
If your puppy seems worried by something, move further away rather than closer to it. In the world of puppies, taking facing your fears literally doesnt really work it will just be overwhelming and make them more fearful rather than less!
Reasons To Consider All Options Before Spaying Or Neutering A Puppy
Dr. Benjamin Hart of the University of California, Davis, has been researching the effects of spay-neuter for a decade, with support from the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation. His first paper on the subject, published in 2013, revealed that Golden Retrievers that had been spayed or neutered had a correlation of being three or four times more likely to develop certain cancers, including lymphosarcoma and hemangiosarcoma, and also more likely to develop joint problems such as hip dysplasia and damage to the cranial cruciate ligament. The team later published data on German Shepherd Dogs and Labrador Retrievers, finding that early spaying and neutering had varying effects on these dogs likelihood to develop joint disorders, cancers, and urinary incontinence.
And when it comes to dogs weighing more than 20 kilos, the study found that the impact of early spay-neuter varies hugely across breeds and sexes. For instance, since most small dogs didnt experience higher rates of the studied cancers and joint problems, Dr. Hart conjectured that at the other end of the scale, Great Danes might suffer them at a high rate. Yet he found that the gentle giants had no increase in joint disorders after early spay-neuter. That was completely unexpected, Dr. Hart told me.
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