The ‘glamorous blonde’ of the dog world, the Golden Retriever is also known as a firm family favourite, says Julie Hill.
These dogs are very active.
The wonderful Golden Retriever smile.
GOLDEN RETRIEVER FACT FILE
● Life expectancy: Can be 12 or more years.
● Price: From £1,400 – £1,800 for a well-bred, properly reared puppy.
● Height (at withers): Dogs 56 – 61cm (22 – 24in); bitches 51 – 56cm (20 – 22in).
● Weight: There is no breed standard for weight, but owners should not allow their dogs to get too fat, with expanded waistlines, or too thin, where the ribs are exposed.
● Coat care: Being a long-coated breed, their fur can soon get tangled. Adopting a regular grooming routine with your puppy will soon get him into a routine, and most dogs love the procedure.
● Health: All reputable breeders will have had their stock’s hips, elbows, and eyes checked and certified by The British Veterinary Association.
● Character: Most endearing; they are warm and friendly dogs, love people, and most certainly love life. They will greet you each morning with excitement and almost always a possession — either one of their toys or one of your shoes!
● Trainability: They are easy to train and will enjoy pleasing you. For puppies, most vets hold puppy socialisation classes, and as they get older there are many local dog training classes for which you can enrol.
● Exercise requirements: Regular exercise is very important, starting off with short walks for puppies. Remember not to overexercise your young pup; build up distance as he grows to full size.
● With thanks to The Golden Retriever Club, and chairman Roy Maynard for his help with this feature.