How to Select a Golden Retriever

Take a wavy-coated retriever and mix it with a Tweed water spaniel. Now add a little bit of Irish setter and a dash of bloodhound and you have a hunting dog known as the golden retriever. These dogs aren't just blond - they range from pale cream to downright red.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog Brushes
  • Dog Carriers
  • Dog Collars
  • Dog Dishes
  • Dog Food
  • Dog Leashes
  • Hand Vacuum Cleaners
  • Nail Clippers For Dogs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a golden retriever if you want an affectionate, loyal and friendly companion. They are not aggressive and make poor watchdogs because of their friendly dispositions. This, however, makes them good family dogs. They are excellent with children of any age.

    • 2

      Don't worry about adopting a retriever if you have other pets. They do equally well with dogs and cats.

    • 3

      Expect your golden retriever to reach a height of 21 to 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 55 to 65 pounds.

    • 4

      Anticipate paying between $200 and $750 for a good-quality dog.

    • 5

      Consider adopting from a rescue group. Many of these dogs are already housebroken and finished with the chewing stage. There is usually nothing wrong with the dog; the owners didn't research the breed and later discovered that they and the dog were incompatible.

    • 6

      Remember that goldens try very hard to please and can be trained fairly easily as long as you are consistent and patient with them.

    • 7

      Note that this breed sheds a lot. The main reason people give up their goldens is because they shed too much. (The second reason is that they got bigger than expected.)

    • 8

      Provide this breed with a large, secure yard. Keep your retriever inside if at all possible. This is an extremely social dog, and it will be very unhappy if left alone outside while its family is together in the house.

    • 9

      Be prepared to enjoy a full 10 to 14 years with your retriever, as this is the average life expectancy of a golden retriever.