Everything You Need to Know about Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dogs in Canada for a reason! They’re exceptionally loyal, playful, and always ready to bring a little extra sunshine to your day. These pups are known for their friendly demeanour and boundless energy, but they’re also up for snuggling on the couch after chasing a few tennis balls! 

Whether you’re a seasoned fur parent or considering adding one to your family, Golden Retrievers are the perfect companions for anyone who believes life is better with a wagging tail. 

Breed Profile: Golden Retrievers

Low ​​⭐ Medium ⭐⭐⭐ High ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Origin: Scotland

Size: ⭐⭐⭐

Weight: 55-75 pounds

Energy level: ⭐⭐⭐

Trainability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Grooming: ⭐⭐⭐

Shedding: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sociability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Source: https://www.ckc.ca/en/Choosing-a-Dog/Choosing-a-Breed/Sporting-Dogs/Retriever-Golden 

Origin and History of the Golden Retriever Breed

Golden Retrievers may be the ultimate family dog today, but their story started in the rugged landscapes of Scotland. According to the CKC, In the mid-19th century, Lord Tweedmouth sought to create a dog that could handle both hunting and the harsh weather of the Scottish Highlands. By crossing a Retriever with a now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel, he struck gold (literally!).

He bred Goldens for their intelligence, loyalty, and love of water. 

Sometime in the early 20th century, Golden Retrievers found their way to Canada. Their adaptability allowed them to thrive in Canada’s diverse climate, whether they’re playing in the snow of Toronto or lounging in Vancouver’s pet-friendly cafes.

Golden Retrievers were first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1925. 

Photo by John Salzarulo on Unsplash

Personality

Golden Retrievers are typically described as gentle and affectionate companions. They’re extremely people-oriented, making them great for involved pet parents. They might not be top-tier guard dogs, but they can make exceptional family pets! 

Goldens are intelligent, playful, and eager to please. This makes them pretty easy to train, especially if you start young. That said, their active minds are always searching for something to do, so they require more mental stimulation than some other breeds. Training, puzzle toys, and playtime are a must for these dogs! 

Their social butterfly tendencies also mean that they don’t do well when left alone for long stretches. They truly enjoy being involved with their family, which is great when their family is around (but it can prove troublesome for those who work out of the home often). They can be prone to separation anxiety, which is a common behavioural disorder in dogs. 

Other signs of separation anxiety include:

• Shaking
• Excessive barking
• Destructive behaviours 
• Inappropriate urination

Ideal Home

Golden Retrievers thrive in homes where they have plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs and burn off energy. A spacious yard is helpful, but putting a Golden Retriever in a yard alone often isn’t enough to fulfill their exercise needs. They thrive when exercising alongside their family, so they do best in a more active household. 

These active pups love running, playing fetch, and retrieving. When introduced to water early, they’re often strong swimmers. 

For families with small children, Golden Retrievers are an excellent choice when properly trained and socialized. Their gentle and patient nature makes them wonderful playmates. Plus, they have enough energy to keep up with several toddlers!

Health

Golden Retrievers are generally healthy dogs. However, they can be susceptible to a few common health concerns, just like any other breed. 

Here are some common health conditions: 

• Hip dysplasia: This condition occurs when the hip joint doesn’t form properly, causing excessive wear. It typically leads to arthritis-like symptoms. Around 19.4% of Golden Retrievers screened for hip dysplasia were found to have this condition. It's not treatable but is often managed with medication and surgery. 

• Elbow dysplasia: This condition is very similar to hip dysplasia but in the elbows. Around 11.9% of Goldens screened had elbow dysplasia. 

• Heart conditions: Golden Retrievers are prone to a few heart conditions, like subvalvular aortic stenosis. 

• Progressive retinal atrophy: PRA is a progressive disease that leads to vision loss. It is not curable and is genetic. However, many dogs are bred before they begin developing it, leading to their puppies inheriting this disorder without the breeder or new owners knowing. It’s a fairly common disease in all purebred dogs. 

• Obesity: For reasons we don’t completely understand, Golden Retrievers are one of the most overweight dog breeds. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, over 62% of Golden Retrievers are classified as overweight or obese. 

• Cancer: Golden Retrievers are also prone to cancer as they age. The most common types of cancer were hemangiosarcoma and lymphoid neoplasia. 

Keeping your Golden healthy can sometimes mean unexpected vet bills. Protect your furry family member with Furkin Pet Insurance so you can focus on tail wags and playtime, not medical expenses!

Photo by Angel Luciano on Unsplash

Training

Golden Retrievers are very intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable compared to other dogs. They respond best to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and belly rubs. 

Because Goldens are prone to obesity, consider being extra careful with treats. Yummy snacks are a sure way to a Golden Retriever’s heart, but they can also lead to a few extra pounds!

While these dogs are friendly, socialization with other dogs is still crucial. Introducing them to new people, pets, and environments helps prevent nervous or overly excitable behaviour. When your dog is introduced to many things as a puppy, fewer things are new and scary when they become an adult.

These dogs can typically master commands far beyond the basics. To keep their mind exercised, consider teaching them more advanced obedience commands. Goldens also thrive in canine sports and make great therapy dogs. With the right training and a good dose of patience, these dogs can often learn just about anything!

Exercise

Golden Retrievers are bundles of energy! They need lots of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy (and fight off obesity). These types of active dogs typically need about 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day.

Luckily, Goldens enjoy tons of different activities. Exercise could include brisk walks, hikes, or a good game of fetch, which caters to their natural retrieving instincts. Playtime in the backyard is a great option, too. These water-loving pups also thrive on swimming sessions, making a lake or beach trip a perfect adventure.

Without enough exercise, Goldens can become bored, leading to destructive behaviour like chewing or digging. Keeping them active not only helps burn off excess energy but also helps strengthen their bond with you.

Photo by Sander Mathlener on Unsplash

Grooming

Goldens are known for their luscious, flowing coats, but maintaining that beautiful fur requires regular grooming. Golden retrievers shed their dense double coat year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

With a couple of weekly brushing sessions, you can keep Golden’s shedding under control, though. It also prevents matting, which Golden Retrievers can be prone to around their neck, legs, and bellies. 

Goldens also require occasional baths to keep their coat shiny and their skin healthy, especially if they decide to take a swim! That said, these pups only require the occasional bath, as too much bathing can strip their coat of natural oils and lead to dry skin. 

Don’t forget about their ears, too! Golden Retrievers are more susceptible to ear infections, due to their long, floppy ears. Consider drying your dog’s ears after a swim or bath, as trapped moisture can lead to bacteria growth and consequently ear infections. 

Lastly, routine nail trimming, teeth brushing, and eye cleaning will help keep your Golden feeling fresh. Sometimes, these dogs can benefit from a visit to a groomer, too, especially during shedding season. 

How Much Do Golden Retrievers Cost?

The cost of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on whether you’re adopting or purchasing from a breeder. Your location and the age of the dog will also play into the Golden Retriever price. 

Adoption 

Adopting a Golden Retriever typically costs between $400 to $1,000 CAD ($300 to $700 USD), depending on the rescue. There are many breed-specific rescues in Canada, such as Golden Rescue. These rescues often have dogs of various ages. Golden Retriever puppies may cost more than adults, as rescues often require younger dogs to be spayed or neutered before adoption. 

Buying from a breeder

The cost of a Golden Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder is typically between $1,200 to $4,000 CAD ($800 to $3,000 USD). This price usually includes vaccinations, microchipping, and initial health checks.  

When deciding on a breeder, ask about health checks and temperament testing. A quality breeder will often also ask you to fill out an application. They care about where their dogs go and aren’t just trying to make a sale. 

Photo by Bill Stephan on Unsplash

Final Thoughts

Golden Retrievers are loyal companions, eager playmates, and loving family members. From their early beginnings in Scotland to their widespread appeal in Canada, these dogs have captured the hearts of pet parents worldwide. While they come with specific care needs, like regular grooming, exercise, and health concerns including hip dysplasia and obesity, the boundless joy they bring to a home is priceless.

Whether you’re considering adding a Golden to your family or already have one by your side, give yourself the peace of mind that your Golden is covered for all of life’s eventualities with Furkin Pet Insurance. With us by your side, you can focus on tail wags, cuddles, and unforgettable moments with your Golden Retriever. 

Get a quote today!

Featured Image by John Price on Unsplash