Golden Retrievers are at the top of the AKC popularity chart within the United States, second only to Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Yorkshire Terriers. Families looking for an ideal pet may find it difficult to do better than a Retriever. Because of this, many people think of opting for a Golden Retriever adoption.
A Golden Retriever likes to be in situations where at least one person is at home most of the day. Homes where a stay-at-home mother or father with young children, retired homes, and homes where someone works at home all the time are excellent homes for Golden Retrievers.
Golden Retrievers need a lot of human attention and are poorly kept out of cages or for long periods of time alone. Because this animal needs a lot of interaction with its human companions, they are not good dogs for people who work long hours or are away on business most of the time.
Retrievers are some of the easiest animals to train because they are eager to please their human companions. A Goldie navigates through obedience training with flying colors. However, Golden Retrievers don’t make good watchdogs because they love all people, not just their owners. A Goldie can be just as happy to see an intruder and accept treats from him as to see a well-recognized face.
Retrievers do not fit in well in every home. These dogs are lively animals that love to chew and run. If owners don’t take the time for proper training, a Retriever can become unruly and destructive. Goldens also love eight years old and are prone to being overweight.
As a breed, retrievers have a natural tendency to be overweight and should never be freely fed or fed table scraps. Weight problems are not a minor problem and can cause them to develop critical medical problems that may even lead to the owner having to euthanize. Proper diet and exercise are not optional for retrievers; they must have both. People who cannot provide a healthy diet and plenty of exercise should think about other races.
Last but not least, these animals are shedding and need to be groomed and brushed several times a week. The fur around a retriever’s hindquarters can become quite unsightly if it is not trimmed and kept clean. People with allergies may find that a Retriever is simply not the best breed for them.
Despite some minor drawbacks and challenges, many people find that retrievers make the perfect family pet. Families living with a Retriever would rarely do otherwise. If a Golden Retriever turns out to be the right dog for your household, find a respected breeder who will carefully screen your pet for birth defects. This is very important, so you don’t end up with a dog, that gives you a lot of problems in the long run.