How to Care for a Golden Retriever

It's possibly the most common and beautiful breed there is — its golden coat and its always cheerful, affectionate temperament make it the perfect companion. But what does a Golden Retriever need to live a healthy, happy life?

From proper nutrition to certain physical care needs, the truth is this breed needs our attention to avoid problems like obesity or hip dysplasia. Let's look in detail at how to care for our Golden.

What Should a Golden Retriever Eat?

During the puppy stage, we should stick to a high-quality kibble specifically formulated for large breeds. Once they're an adult, though, we should consider switching to a moderate-calorie kibble.

The Golden Retriever is very prone to becoming overweight, which is quite harmful to their overall health, but especially to their joints. That's why a "light" kibble and cutting back on treats (dog snacks) is the most recommended approach, especially if they've been neutered or spayed.

Daily but Moderate Exercise

Golden Retrievers are very active dogs, but we shouldn't push them too hard, since they're prone to joint problems and ligament tears. Because of this, we should let them run and play, but at their own pace.

Three or four walks a day are recommended so they can relieve themselves outside. One or two of those walks should be especially long, letting them run and play as they please.

It's not a good idea to force them to keep up with us on a bike ride or a run, since they'll push themselves too hard and it'll catch up with them eventually. Their health isn't as sturdy as that of some other breeds.

How to Care for My Golden Retriever's Coat

This dog's golden coat requires two fundamental types of care: brushing and bathing.

Brushing

It's a good idea to use a metal-pin brush twice a week to remove dead hair. On top of that, the Golden sheds twice a year, and daily brushing is recommended during that period.

Sticking rigorously to this routine matters a lot — otherwise, tangles will form and your Golden will become the perfect host for external parasites like fleas and ticks. Always wait until the coat is dry before brushing.

Bathing

The Golden Retriever's coat repels water, so frequent baths aren't necessary. Once a month or every couple of months will be enough to keep them clean. If more frequent bathing is needed, use a pH-neutral shampoo made specifically for dogs.

Remember to thoroughly clean and dry their ears to prevent problems like ear infections, which are fairly common in this breed.

Family Life

Golden Retriever care also includes their relationship with people. This breed is very family-oriented — it's not the kind of dog that's happy left alone in a yard. Being part of family life, daily play and petting, and tagging along with people's activities is what makes them truly happy.

They also get along well with children, making them an ideal pet for playtime. They can live in apartments, as long as they get daily physical activity, though a house with a yard or garden is ideal for them.

What Care Does a Puppy Need?

Basic care for a Golden puppy includes waiting until the eighth or ninth week of life to wean them, though it's best for them to stay with their mother until the third month. After that, feed them solid food formulated for puppies, 3 to 4 times a day.

Puppies can get moderate exercise, always at their own pace. It's best for them to play with other dogs, so they get exercise and socialize at the same time.

Socializing with other dogs and people is recommended from puppyhood, so they grow up to be a friendly, well-balanced companion. Likewise, from the very first day at home you should start teaching them where to relieve themselves, eat, and sleep. If you prefer, you can turn to a professional dog trainer to help.

The vaccination and deworming schedule should follow whatever frequency your vet recommends. Likewise, see your vet if you notice any signs of illness or changes in mood.