Buying A Puppy

So you're thinking of getting a Golden? Maybe you've heard they're perfect family dogs, and great for kids? You've seen "Homeward Bound" or "Air Bud" and you think you'd like one just like Shadow or Buddy?

BUT, before you rush to buy a puppy, are you sure this is really the breed for you?

They SHED! Are you aware that Goldens shed hair year-round, and REALLY shed twice a year. (We're talking vacuuming every day when it's shedding season). Although their coat is easy to look after, they do have to be brushed regularly.

They PULL! Goldens are very happy dogs, but also very strong dogs. They tend to need lots of exercise for at least the first two years. And because they are quite strong, they should receive at least basic obedience training, as they are quite fond of dragging their owners while on walks.

They want ATTENTION! Goldens are a very sociable breed, and want to be part of the family. They don't usually do well if they have to spend most of their time outside, or in the basement, or in the garage. They want to be in the house, with their people (on the couch, on the bed, in your lap, in your face).

They CHEW! Since they are "Retrievers", it is very natural for Goldens to carry things. This often means socks, shoes, boots, underwear, kleenex, especially dirty kleenex. Sometimes they don't just *carry* stuff, they inflict major damage. It is very wise to keep closet doors closed when you have a young Golden in the house. And don't get too attached to your furniture.

Goldens unfortunately have some health problems to look out for. These include skin problems, allergies, thyroid problems, ear infections, hip dysplasia, eye problems and heart problems. Make sure your breeder has done all the necessary screenings to the puppies' parents. Unfortunately this will not guarantee your puppy won't develop any of these problems, but at least you will have every chance on your side.

Goldens are well known for their wonderful temperaments, however, as with any very popular breed, be careful! There are too many people who are breeding just for the money, and who are not careful about the health and temperaments of the parents. So we are starting to see many more Goldens with poor temperaments.

Are you planning any major lifestyle changes? If you decide to have children, will the dog become a nuisance and have to go?

If you have to move into a smaller place, will you make excuses to leave the dog behind? (Think
about it. Would you leave your child behind?)

If your career steps up, will you be "too busy" for the dog?

Have you put lots of thought into this and are all family members in agreement? Will this dog be part of your family for the rest of his/her life?

When you go to buy your Golden, keep in mind that you are "adopting" a new family member. Your breeder is going to want to check you out, to ensure that his or her "baby" is going to a loving home where the new parents know what to expect and are able to give the new arrival the care, attention and love he deserves.

If, after reading all this, you still believe the Golden Retriever is the breed for you, congratulations, and welcome to the "Club", whose members know they have the best dogs in the world.

Gail Wormington, November 1999