Most people in North America love dogs and have dogs as pets. They are incredibly loyal and loving and they are just so adorable. That’s why, many parents have heard their children say, “Can we get a puppy?” Golden Retrievers are very beautiful dogs with a great temperament and a gentle, kind face. They get to be pretty big and live for around 10 to 12 years.

However, sometimes, when people can’t handle it, they abandon the dogs in shelters. Dogs have feelings and they love the master so much, so here are some things you need to know before you decide to get a Golden Retriever puppy.

1. Plenty Of Room

You need to have plenty of room for a Golden Retriever puppy. They are very active dogs and grow big and powerful, so if you live in an apartment, it is not advisable to get such a dog. You can, if you are always at home and take the dog out quite a lot though, since bigger dogs need more exercise. They need a yard where they can run around and play with you. They are very social, so expect the dog to spend lots of time indoors with you as well.

2. Hair

Be prepared for a load of hair everywhere! They shed all year round, so one thing you’ll be doing quite a bit is cleaning the place constantly to get rid of the hair. You need to brush the dog a few times a week, which will help the situation. Just make sure you have a good vacuum cleaner to remove hair from the furniture and carpet.

3. Goldens Love Chewing!

You better look out! Goldens love chewing, so make sure you keep your slippers and shoes (always a staple ‘diet’) and hide them where the dog can’t get at it. One way to keep other things safe is to provide your dog with a safe and durable chew toy. There are also treats that can be chewed for a long time which will keep the dog occupied and your property safe. Make sure your garbage is secure or you’ll come back to a huge mess! Not only that, some human food can actually be dangerous to Goldens and in fact, a lot of other dogs, so you need to take extra precautions.

4. Couch Potatoes Need Not Apply

Golden Retrievers are active and intelligent dogs. They have a lot of energy and need physical and mental stimulation. You need to give the dog a lot of exercise, so if you’re the couch potato sort, it would be a little unfair on the dog. They are very obedient, so it can be very stimulating for the dog to teach him or her obedience training. If you can teach it agility training, they will absolutely love it. If not, they are great companions for long walks, running, hiking and playing in the park.

5. Neutering The Golden Retriever

There has been research suggesting that neutering the Golden Retriever may have a negative effect on the dog. Cancer and joint disorders tend to be increased. This is not to say that by doing so, they will be free of it, but for whatever reason, it appears to have a bad effect on this particular breed.

Golden Retrievers make great pets and companions, not just for the adults but for the kids as well. They require lots of attention, so if you’re busy or away a lot, it can be hard on the dog. It can be very easy to look at the dog’s face and melt, but think about whether or not you have the time and ability to look after it. If you do, you won’t regret it.