Golden Retriever Puppy

The loveable golden retriever puppy is one of the best companion dogs out there. Bred to be loyal, kind, and full of energy, this beautiful golden dog is an excellent family pet. If you're thinking about buying or adopting a golden retriever puppy, you should know what to expect. Read on to find out about the physical characteristics and temperament of this faithful companion.

Physical Appearance

A golden retriever puppy comes in varying shades of gold, ranging from very light in color to a dark gold that is almost like an Irish setter's coloring. The coat of this dog is water repellent and helps to keep the puppy safe from bad weather. The outer coat is firm, almost course, and the under coat is denser and has soft hair. If you're thinking about adding a golden retriever puppy to your family, keep in mind that they shed quite a bit and you'll need to brush your new friend regularly and vacuum often to keep up with the hair loss.

Character & Temperament

The golden retriever puppy is loving and loves to please its human family members. These dogs are friendly and polite with others and they are very smart. If you want to get a golden retriever, keep in mind that you will need to spend a lot of time with your new puppy. Golden retrievers become destructive when they are left alone for periods of time, so you should not get one if you are at work all day or frequently travel for your career. You'll find that your golden retriever puppy is extremely friendly and wants to make friends everywhere you go. From greeting children in the park to wanting to make friends with every dog it meets, the golden retriever breed is one of the friendliest out there.

Grooming Needs

Because of the frequent shedding of the breed, you'll need to brush your golden retriever puppy daily. You'll need a brush with firm bristles. If your golden retriever gets muddy or dirty from playing or swimming, you can wash it with a mild shampoo. Keeping up with your dog's grooming needs can keep its coat looking lustrous and contribute to continued good health. Grooming time can also be good bonding time for you and your golden retriever puppy.

Health Concerns

Golden retrievers are prone to certain medical conditions as a breed. Skin allergies are common and they are also prone to cataracts and hip dysplasia. You should be careful not to overfeed your golden retriever puppy because this breed can gain weight easily.

Exercise & Play

Golden retrievers are a very active breed and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Fetching, running, and other exercises are beneficial. If you live in apartment, be sure to take your golden retriever puppy to a local park or dog run so it can get the exercise it needs.