Things To Know About Golden Retriever Puppies

The Golden Retriever Guide: Food Personality Exercise And More

Year after year, the golden retriever ranks among the top three most popular dog breeds in the U.S. and its not exactly hard to figure out why. Known for their friendly and people-loving personalities, goldens are as famous for being the perfect family pet as they are for their picture-perfect looks.

The typical golden is SO friendly, SO easygoing, and SO adorable that they can give the impression that theyre a low-maintenance dog. But, like any breed, they demand ample mental stimulation, exercise, and training. Goldens can be pretty chill compared to some breeds but most wont be content to laze the day away on the couch.

Read on to learn the basics about golden retrievers and golden retriever mixes, and insight from owners and experts to help you live the happiest possible life with this sunny companion.

Basic golden retriever breed facts

Golden retrievers are medium-to-large sized, sturdy, and muscular in build but with broad heads, short ears, and friendly, intelligent eyes. What really makes these dogs stand out, however, is that lustrous golden coat.

As the name suggests, golden retrievers always have a golden coat, though it can range in color from a light cream-colored gold to a dark reddish gold . Dogs of this breed often exhibit a thick ruff around the neck along with feathering on the legs, stomach, and tail. Some goldens have slightly wavy fur while others have completely straight coats.

Typical golden personality profile

Stella

Home environment

Sullivan

Feeding The Little Goldies

Actually, as the Golden Retriever puppies grow, the food is their basic necessity like in humans. Knowing this, you must have sufficient knowledge about their feeding requirement as part of the things to know about Golden Retriever puppies.

The First Weeks

Basically, one of the most important things to know about Golden Retriever puppies is that you should not offer them any puppy, dog, and even human food until the age of 6 weeks. The reason behind this is generally because the little Goldies only need the milk from their mother. They usually need nourishment from it until their weaning stage in which they are taken off from their mother. Generally, the mothers milk has high levels of antibodies which boost the immune system of the puppy.

Weaning Stage

At the start of the weaning phase, the mother dog usually reduces the frequency of feeding her Golden Retriever puppies. This is basically one of the most important things to know about Golden Retriever puppies as this is the period in which you, as pet owners, begin to support the missed feeds from their mom. It is actually better to begin introducing the little Goldies some cerelac first.

Post-weaning Phase

Things You Need For Your Golden Retriever Puppy

When you decide that its time to get a golden retriever puppy, you know you cant take the decision lightly. A new puppy is a huge responsibility, so thats why youve been busy doing your research, and youve found this article. The good news is youve come to the right place.

So, what things will you need for a golden retriever puppy? A new golden retriever puppy will need several dog basics like the following:

• a crate
• food
• treats

Youll also need to make sure you puppy proof your home, know how to bathe your puppy, and also know how to keep it happy and healthy.

Since there isnt a lot of information available on the Internet today about taking care of a new golden retriever puppy, we created this guide to help you out. Below well outline things you will need for your golden retriever puppy and also a few things youll need to know.

Also Check: Golden Retriever Face Drawing

Goldendoodles Vary In Size

Not ready for the responsibility of a big dog? Luckily, there are miniature Goldendoodles, too. Instead of being bred with a Standard Poodle, Golden Retrievers are bred with a Toy Poodle to create a pint-sized pup. These mini Doodles may possibly be the cutest thing you’ll ever see.

Red Flags Regarding The Puppy:

• Lethargy: Puppies are little fur-balls of energy! Even a pup with a mellow temperament will exhibit the traits of puppy-playfulness and abandon. A lethargic puppy is a clear indicator that this is NOT the puppy for you. Something is wrong, physically or emotionally. Even a sleeping puppy should quickly respond with playfulness upon awakening. If you cant seem to rouse a puppy into playfulness, do NOT purchase him!

Next, pick up the puppy and inspect it.

• Cloudy and non-responsive eyes are indicators of a bigger problem. Keep shopping.
• Excessive itching, sore spots or balding indicate a parasite infestation since puppies usually dont exhibit signs of a food allergy until they begin to mature. Continue searching if you see these problems.
• Discharge from a puppys eyes, nose, ears or anus also indicate a larger health problem. A puppy with discharges is NOT the puppy to buy.
• His belly should be chubby, but not distended or sensitive to your touch. If a puppy shows any signs of pain when you handle it, its not the pup for you.

Also Check: Golden Retriever Summer Cut

Should I Get A Female Or Male Golden

Males are bigger, and their boxy heads are more pronounced, which gives them a more huggable appearance. Marking and aggression could become a problem in intact males.

Females are leaner in comparison and can become quite clingy when theyre in heat. Aside from those slight differences, either gender will give you a calm and even-tempered Golden.

Meeting Another Dog: How To Introduce Your Puppy To A New Dog

Its important to socialise puppies when theyre still young to really make sure theyre at their friendliest and kindest with other dogs as adults. In humans or dogs worlds, everybody likes a friendly guy.

A good way to do this is by organising a visit from one of your friends dogs.

PRO TIP: The other dog should be friendly with puppies, and up to date with their vaccinations!

How to do it

PRO TIP

We know that all you may want is to let loose in some off lead play. But lets not get ahead of ourselves, keep the adult dog on lead for now there will be plenty of time to play later on. Dont worry youre not being a Debbie Downer, youre just making sure your puppy is safe, and is able to go one step at a time!

Recommended Reading: Best Golden Retriever Breeders Southern California

Teaching Your Golden Retriever Puppy To Wait

The practice of patience: Waiting. What a lesson to teacheven for humans.

For your puppy, waiting means not moving when we move away. But you can also use this lesson later on for things like waiting at doors, before you let them out of the car, or in their crate. Unfortunately, using it for teaching them to wait on tables is way past their learning capabilities.

There are two aspects to teaching your puppy to wait:

First, well work on duration.

Now, lets practice distance.

Things To Remember Before Adding Shiba Inu Golden Retriever Mix To Your Family

The ideal option is to buy from a respected local breeder who guarantees the happiness and health of both the purebred parents and the puppy. Inquire about the breeders health clearance certifications and gene testing reports. Examine the dog to see if the puppy has been vaccinated. It would be fantastic if you could pay a visit to the puppys parents. Youll get a healthy puppy as well as information on the parents.

Read Also: How To Stop Golden Retriever From Digging

They Are Prone To Waxy Ears

Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers are prone to waxy ears. This tends to be a result of poor air circulation due to their long ears.

Although it is not always the case, waxy ears can be the symptom of a more serious problem, such as an infection or mites. If left untreated or if not treated correctly and consistently, ear problems can become chronic and affect the dog’s quality of life.

The most common cause of ear infections in Golden Retrievers is yeast. After swimming or bathing, take the time to dry your dog’s ears. Effort should also be made to keep ears clean. There are solutions available for purchase or that you can make at home that, in addition to cleaning and soothing your Golden Retriever’s ears, will also change the pH level, creating an environment yeast should not thrive in.

Be careful Goldens will eat almost anything that resembles food, regardless of whether or not it is good for them.

Coat Color And Grooming

Golden Retrievers have a dense, water-repellent outer coat with a thick undercoat. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail.

Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Some breeders have begun selling “rare white Goldens,” but the American Kennel Club does not recognize white as a coat color for the breed.

Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. If you live with a Golden, you’ll need to adapt to a certain amount of dog hair in your house and on your clothes.

The Golden’s thick coat means lots of grooming. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean.

Brush your Golden’s teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath.

Begin accustoming your Golden to being brushed and examined when he’s a puppy. Handle his paws frequently dogs are touchy about their feet and look inside his mouth. Make grooming a positive experience filled with praise and rewards, and you’ll lay the groundwork for easy veterinary exams and other handling when he’s an adult.

Don’t Miss: How Much Does A Golden Retriever Husky Mix Cost

Should You Get A Golden Retriever From A Breeder Or A Rescue

If you want a golden retriever puppy, chances are youll have to get one from a breeder.

There are usually more people that want to rescue goldens than there are goldens that need to be rescued, and golden retriever puppies available to be rescued are rather rare .

If you do want to rescue a golden retriever, check out this article to find a golden retriever rescue near you.

But if you want to get a golden retriever puppy from a breeder, you need to know how to find the right breeder for you.

Make Your Home Safe For Your Golden Retriever Puppy

An essential part of preparing for a new dog is to puppy-proof your home and yard before you bring your pooch to the house.

Youll need to make your home safe for a puppy and then keep it safe as your puppy becomes a dog because even older dogs get curious about things like the trash and get into trouble if you make it easy for them to do so.

Make sure your dog cant reach any electric cords, remove items from low tables where your puppy might reach them, and put away anything vital that you think might harm your dog.

Here are a few other items youll need for your golden retriever at your home:

• #4 Puppy padsWhile not everybody feels the need to buy these, they can come in handy while you are potty training your dog. If you have an especially lovely carpet, it might be a wise idea.
• #5 Puppy toysPuppies require several different types of toys to keep them busy. Chew toys are essential because your puppy will need to chew while teething. Your puppy can learn what is proper to chew and chew toys can help keep your puppy from chewing on your items. Make sure you buy the right size of toys for your golden retriever puppy. You dont want to purchase tiny toys that your dog might choke on.
• #6 Travel harnessYoull want this while you are riding with your dog in the car.
• #7 Baby gatesIf you want to keep your puppy out of individual rooms in your house, a baby gate will be an idea.

You May Like: What Size Dog Bowl For Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever Loves Kids Other Dogs And Cats

Golden Retrievers really were born to love, and that love extends to just about every other living creature. Because of their gentle nature, they are one of the better breeds to be around children. They get along great with other dogs, and most other cats. You do want to keep an eye on them around cats and smaller pets initially, keeping in mind that they were originally bred to be hunters. But most do get along great with just about everyone and everything.

Finn has an elementary-aged human brother who is very hands-on with him and who helps with training him and caring for him. They get along great, and the boy loves teaching his dog new things.

Things You Need To Know About Golden Retrievers

Don’t Miss: What Should I Feed My 2 Month Old Golden Retriever Puppy

How Long Do Golden Retrievers Live

On average, Golden Retrievers can live anywhere from 10-12 years. Like other dog breeds, a Goldens lifespan can be affected by many factors, including their overall health, living conditions, diet and exercise, and if they have any pre-existing conditions. Some Goldens who have a clean bill of health have even lived well beyond 12 years.

How To Pick A Golden Retriever Puppy From The Litter

Im going to be honest here

There are no tricks to getting the perfect puppy for you.

The most important thing is to find a breeder that breeds parents that resemble the dog you want.

Do you want a sweet, calm golden?

Then look for a breeder that breeds sweet, calm goldens.

Do you want a dog to go hunting with?

Then look for a breeder that breeds hunting dogs.

After finding a good breeder, talk with them and tell them what you want.

For instance, when my wife and I went to pick up our golden retriever, Oliver, we told the breeder that we wanted a big, calm golden.

It was obvious to see which of the puppies were going to be big, and from being with these puppies the previous eight weeks, they were able to help advise me on which ones seemed to be on the calmer side.

Here are a few other tips for picking a puppy:

You May Like: Golden Retriever Puppies And Babies