Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Millions of men and women adopt or purchase these beautiful canines and incorporate them into their families. The American Kennel Club says that Golden Retrievers are best known for their intelligence and eagerness to please. While they aren’t used as traditional working dogs, Golden Retrievers display an eagerness to be trained and learn. The dogs are sometimes raised to be seeing eye companions or function well as hunting companions. In the past, they have also been used as search and rescue dogs in the past. These canines are active and energetic, so they thrive in families with fast-paced lifestyles. Goldens need daily exercise in order to stay healthy and avoid boredom that can bring on bad behavior.

Normally, Golden Retrievers are medium to large sized dogs with thick coats and floppy ears. Their coat is considered a “double coat.” This means that the dog will shed on a cycle, and must be brushed in order to prevent a dirty or matted coat. When a Golden Retriever is not groomed properly, the matted fur can become uncomfortable and cause dirt to clump near the skin. This can lead to health issues. Interestingly enough, the under layer of a Golden’s coat is water resistant. While Goldens were named after their typical color, they come in a variety of hues from cream to chestnut.

Golden Retrievers have an excellent temperament. They are normally lovable, well-mannered, and smart. The dogs are almost always gentle with children, and are devoted to their owners, making them the perfect family dog. Goldens also make great watchdogs, and tend to be friendly with other canines. The only time that a Golden Retriever may become disobedient is if he or she is not getting enough attention. Bored dogs tend to scratch, chew, claw, bite, and become high-strung because they are not getting the exercise that they need. If you are not giving your dog the daily mental and physical exercise and attention that he or she needs, be prepared for problems.

Goldens normally fare well in any environment, as long as they are sufficiently exercised. They do best if they have a yard to play in. Goldens normally live about 10 to 12 years, but they are susceptible to a variety of health conditions. Many times, Goldens will get cancer, which can cut their life short. As well, the dogs can end up with hip dysplasia. This is an illness that occurs when the dog’s hip joints don’t develop normally. This leads to a loss of function in the hip joints, which causes the dog to have a hard time getting up after lying on the floor. Goldens also tend to get Von Willebrand’s Disease. Dogs with this illness will experience excessive bleeding after an injury, and can eventually die from a loss of blood if they are not treated.

Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to heart problems and congenital eye defects. They can gain weight easily, so you will want to talk to a veterinarian about dietary plans for your Golden. Sometimes, a vet will suggest a special dog kibble that can help to regulate weight. The animals can also get skin conditions, and these need to be treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. If you take good care of your Golden Retriever and give him or her the attention and love he or she needs, then he or she has a better chance of being healthy and happy for years to come. Make sure to take your Golden in for regular checkups and care for him or her diligently to ensure a healthy and happy dog!