Golden Retriever
Description
Ever wonder what makes Golden Retrievers so popular? They’re medium to large dogs, weighing between 55 and 75 pounds, with a solid coat that ranges from light to dark golden shades. Their double coat is water-resistant, perfect for swimming and outdoor adventures. Originally bred in 19th-century Scotland to retrieve game from land and water, they’ve kept their natural love for fetching and carrying things gently in their mouths. Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and trusting nature. They get along well with kids and strangers alike, making them wonderful family companions. Their playful spirit and eagerness to please also make training a rewarding experience. Isn’t it nice to have a dog that’s both a great buddy and a hard worker?
Grooming
Golden Retrievers have a medium-length double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall. To keep their coat healthy and reduce loose hair around your home, brush them three times a week, increasing frequency during shedding seasons. Using an undercoat rake helps remove dead hair trapped beneath the topcoat. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps their coat clean, but always blow-dry afterward to help loosen and remove dead undercoat fur. Here’s a quick grooming checklist: - Brush 3× weekly, more in shedding seasons - Use an undercoat rake for dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks - Blow-dry to aid de-shedding Pro tip: Regular blow-drying after baths can significantly reduce loose hair and keep your Golden’s coat looking its best. Their solid golden colors don’t require special stain care, but keeping ears clean helps prevent odor and discomfort.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? Plan for about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This breed thrives on consistent activity that challenges both their body and mind. Morning walks can be brisk and energizing, while evening strolls offer a chance to wind down and sniff around. Example routine: - Morning: 50-minute brisk walk with fetch breaks - Evening: 50-minute relaxed walk with scent games This schedule helps manage their natural enthusiasm and keeps them happy. Mixing in games like fetch or scent work during walks taps into their retrieving instincts and prevents boredom. Remember, a tired Golden is a happy Golden!
Boarding
When boarding a Golden Retriever, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to ensure comfort and enough room to stretch. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help reduce stress. Golden Retrievers are social and playful but appreciate calm downtime too. Enrichment activities like puzzle toys or scent trails during breaks can keep them engaged. Staff should note their friendly nature and mouthy habits, offering plenty of chew toys to satisfy their retrieving instincts. A well-structured boarding stay helps them feel safe and entertained while you’re away.