Adopting a Golden Retriever
The adoption of a Golden Retriever is a considerable, but extremely rewarding comittement which should be discussed and considered by the family as a whole before proceeding. Retrievers can be expected to live for approximately 12-15 years and should therefore not be seen as a short term committement but as a major part of family life for some considerable time to come.
It is also important when considering adoption, that you consider your current and possible future circumstances and take time to select the right animal for your home and situation. Try to be open minded and do not discount an older dog as these have many qualities and just as much love to give as a younger animal.
Before proceeding down the adoption path, please read and consider the following information to help you make a more informed decision about adoption:
Size
Golden Retrievers are medium-sized dogs. Male golden retrievers are usually 23-24 inches in height at the withers, while females are usually 21.5-22.5 inches. Male dogs usually weigh 65-75 pounds, while the females are commonly 60-70 pounds. Their tails are also at the perfect height to knock everything off of your coffee table.
Attention
Golden Retrievers are family dogs and crave human contact.. They live for their family and are therefore poorly suited to live the life of a backyard dog, or a dog that is alone all day. A golden will always prefer to sit on your knee to tell you just how much he loves you and will be a devoted and loyal friend and companion. When bored or stressed, many dogs can resort to digging and other destructive behaviours
Exercise
Golden Retrievers are sporting dogs. They were bred to have the ability to work in the field with the stamina to work all day. As a result, they require daily exercise. Letting your dog out to run to the nearest tree as a potty break and back again is not considered enough exercise. A Golden should be given at least 2 good walks a day!
Grooming
Golden Retrievers have a full luxurious coat, and they shed at least twice a year, minimum. You WILL have dog hair in your house, on your clothes, and probably even in your food. If you are a fastidious housekeeper, a golden is probably not for you. In order to keep your golden's coat in good condition, they need to be brushed every couple of days. This prevents matts from forming and helps to cut down on the shedding in the house. As well, regular brushing will help remove the small twigs and grasses that will collect in your golden's coat! It is often said that with every Golden should come the household Dyson!
Health
There are several health issues to be aware of. Every breed has their share of hereditary health problems, and the golden retriever is no exception. Possible conditions that may affect your Golden are hip displasia, eye problems and thyroid conditions. It is always recommended that you should take out suitable pet insurance to ensure you can give your dog the best care needed should it be required.
Carrying things
Goldens are retrievers. They LOVE to carry things around in their mouth. Be prepared to pick up your socks and underwear, you never know just what your golden will grab to greet guests at the door !!
Water
Golden Retrievers love water, and will go out of their way to get wet and muddy. Male goldens with larger heads will usually have longer lips which means DROOL!! Oh, and did I mention? They SHED!!!!
After Adoption
If you continue the adoption process and find yourself with a new family member please bear in mind that a dog may take anything from a day to 6 or 7 weeks to become fully settled in his new surroundings. Whatever the reason the dog was put up for adoption, he/she will have undergone a huge upheaval, being moved to our kennels and then to your home. You may well do things differently than his previous owner, he will be in a strange environment and will have new routines to learn.
We will always endevour to give you as much information about your new dog as we have available, and time will have been taken to make sure you have the right dog for your circumstances but please be prepared to give your new dog the time, reassurance and patience he/she will need to settle. We are always available to offer advice and support at any time.
If you are still interested in adopting a Golden Retriever, Give Jan a ring - the number is on the contact page. She will have a chat with you andhelp you take things further.