Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the US. Their beautiful coats and friendly personalities contribute to the high demand for this particular dog breed. However, it's important to know a few things about the realities of living with a golden retriever before you decide that it's the right breed for your family.
High Energy Levels
Golden retrievers are a high-energy breed of dog that needs regular exercise and plenty of toys and activities. They are not the type of dog that will easily adjust to being cooped up in a small area or left alone for most of the day. If you have a small apartment or if you're rarely home, you may do better with a dog that's less energetic and has less need for space to run.
Left to their own devices for too long or kept in too small a space, a golden retriever is likely to get into trouble. If they don't have room to run or toys to entertain themselves, they may dig holes, destroy furniture, or cause other kinds of damage.
And while golden retrievers are friendly dogs that are good with children, they may be too rambunctious for a baby or toddler. If your children are very small, you may want to wait until they're a little older before adopting a golden retriever
Shedding
When you adopt a golden retriever from a company like English Golden Cream Retrievers, you'll need to get used to shedding and familiarize yourself with proper grooming techniques. Golden retrievers shed a lot, especially in the spring and fall.
Daily brushing is good for your retriever's coat and can help keep some of the shedding under control. However, it's probably a good idea to invest in a good vacuum cleaner before you bring a golden retriever home.
Health Issues
Purebred golden retrievers are at increased risk for a few different health issues. Doing some research to make sure that you choose a reputable breeder can help ensure that you bring home a healthy puppy, but your retriever will still need regular veterinary checkups, and you'll need to be on the lookout for some of the more common health issues that affect the breed.
Hip dysplasia is one of the more common ailments for golden retrievers. This is a form of arthritis that occurs when the joints in their hips develop abnormally. It can cause pain, inflammation, and difficulty walking and running. Catching and treating the condition early can help prevent it from becoming debilitating.
A golden retriever can make a wonderful addition to your family. Knowing what to expect when you adopt a golden retriever can help you prepare so that you can take good care of your pet.
