Meet the Golden Retriever

Do you have a Golden Retriever? If so, put a pawprint on your calendar for February 3rd: it’s Golden Retriever Day! The Golden Retriever is definitely one of the world’s favorite pups. In fact, this dog is currently the number 3 top dog, out of 197 breeds. That’s pretty impressive! A local vet discusses these ‘pawesome’ pooches below.

T  emperament

Friendly, loyal, and smart, Goldens are usually super lovable and easy to please. Honestly, you really couldn’t ask for a better dog, or a more adorable one! These cute pooches are very playful and active, and love to run and frolic. Given the fact that, as the name suggests, they were specifically bred to retrieve waterfowl, it’s probably not a surprise to find that these pups love water. (Tip: if you don’t have easy access to a pet-friendly swimming area, get your pooch a kiddie pool to splash around in.) Aside from swimming, Fido’s favorite pastimes include playing Fetch, hanging out with his humans, going on rides, and collecting belly rubs.

Basics

The Golden Retriever is a medium-sized dog. Their average height and weight top off at about 23 inches and 65 pounds for females, and 24 inches and 75 pounds for males. Goldens; natural happiness is even noted in the breed standards: their tails are often described as moving with a ‘merry fashion.’ There are three types of Golden Retrievers: British, American, and Canadian. They’re all adorable! It’s worth pointing out that many people confuse Golden Retrievers and the Yellow Labrador Retrievers. The main difference? The Yellow Lab has shorter fur.

Activity

Like other sporting dogs, Golden Retrievers are very active pups. Fido will need lots of walks and playtime. (Tip: many of these pups love mechanical ball launchers.) They also can make great companions for joggers, though you’ll need to get the thumbs-up from your vet before taking your pet running. Last but not least, goldens are excellent at doggy sports, such as agility, and are also wonderful at obedience and tracking.

Grooming

Goldens have beautiful fur, which can range from red to pale yellow. They are also very generous about trying to share it with their humans. Fido will shed continuously throughout the year. If you don’t want to find fur everywhere, you’ll need to brush your pup regularly. The good news is that your pooch will only need occasional baths. Regular nail trims are a must, however, as is good dental care.

Do you have questions about Golden Retrievers? Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance.