How to Adjust to your Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are among the most beloved breeds of dogs. They are wonderful in so many ways. There are some things, however, that you need to know to assure you both have happy lives.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• dog

1. Goldens are very gentle and loving. With that love comes the desire to be with you, the owner, all the time. Some categorize them as "high maintenance". Locking your golden away is the worst thing they can imagine, and often results in destructive behavior. Crate training is a good start for any golden, for their own safety and that of your home. For example, I thought the kitchen would be more desirable than a crate. Wrong! My precious puppy chewed holes in the drywall, destroyed a rug and scratched up the cupboards. They typically have anxiety when alone. Having more than one dog can help with that, though I know it's not an option for everyone.
   
   Since you can't take your dog with you everywhere you go try to build being away slowly, a little bit at a time.

2. There are five essentials to having a happy life with your dog. They are as follows;
   
   1. Training.
   * They want to please you.
   * They are typically easy to train.
   * Training gives them a sense of doing a job.
   * Training puts you in the role of leader, which is essential in a healthy relationship with your golden.

3. 2. Exercise.
   * Daily exercise is required. Not just play, but meaningful exercise.
   * Walking is great for day to day, but try to throw in some fun occasionally with a run in an open field or swimming, after all they are water dogs.

4. 3. Play (they need fun just like any of us)
   * Fetch, of course
   * Tug of war
   * hide and seek
   * a fun game of tag
   * Nylobones are great! They last a long time and it will occupy them for at least a little while. It will also prevent them from chewing on your things.

5. 4. Give the dog a job.
   * From fetching your paper or slippers to keeping the kids in the yard, they need to have a job.
   * They are great candidates for therapy dogs. Going to hospitals or nursing homes is good for everyone involved. (there are certification classes for this).
   * It can be as simple as having them carry their own ball to the park. There is also a product similar to saddle bags that the dog can wear.

6. 5. Affection
   * They live for your love. They want to be right next to you at all times. While you can't promise to be there always, try to spend time when you are there scratching and petting and just laying on the floor with them.
   
   A golden retriever is a dog that should add love, fun and security to your life. Get the best out of your dog while you can and enjoy their love of life and of you.

Tips & Warnings

• Just enjoy the dog. If you can't enjoy being with them and loving on them you should look into a different breed.

[jbrown33]

on 2/7/2009 This was really helpful. Thanks!