Golden Retrievers - The 3 Secrets You Must Know When Training Your Golden Receiver

Golden Retrievers are lovable, friendly dogs who love companionship and will be your best friend.

The right training is the key for turning your golden retriever puppy into your best friend for life. It is vital that you understand that the keys to training your golden retriever puppy are to be patient, to get them into a daily routine, and to give them lots of love and exercise. These three things will help you develop a relationship with your golden retriever puppy so that they will be your best friend for life.

The first secret to effectively training your golden retriever puppy is to be patient. Their playful nature means that they have a limited attention span, so limit their schooling to about 15 minutes at a time. Keep the sessions short and start with simple commands like sit and stay. Reward them when they do the right thing with a favourite treat. Just remember not to get carried away with the treats. Reinforce when they do the right thing and you will soon have your puppy eating right out of your hand, quite literally. Just remember to keep the sessions short as like all children they would rather play.

Golden Retrievers love routine, so try and get them into a routine as soon as possible. Just like a lot of human beings they like to do the same things in the same way at the same time each day. So always feed your golden retriever puppy at the same times each day, exercise them at the same time, and train them at the same time each day. That way they will soon come to understand when it is time to train and when it is time to play. That will make your training sessions much more effective and your golden retriever puppy will learn much more quickly.

Golden Retrievers thrive on two things, exercise and companionship. So make sure to give them plenty of both. Regular walks will keep your Golden Retriever in top physical condition. Regular playtime and companionship will create a strong bond between you and your puppy. Regular grooming will keep your retrievers coat in peak condition and will also serve as time that you spend with your dog. Carry out these activities with your dog and regular times to help set them into a routine.

So the 3 secrets to training your Golden Retriever puppy are to be patient, remember that your dog has a playful nature and will naturally want to play with you, so keep your sessions short. The second secret is to create a routine with your dog, and that way they will soon get to know when is training time and when is playful time. And give them lots of exercise and companionship, and turn your Golden Retriever into your best friend for life.

Stephen is a lover of dogs in general, and especially golden retrievers. The key to your Golden Retriever being your best friend is the correct training. For more training information for golden retrievers please visit my site at http://www.goldenretrievertrainingguide.com

The Big Differences Between Labrador Retrievers And Golden Retrievers

It is more common for people to confuse us Labrador Retrievers with Golden Retrievers than you may think! Though some people may be confused about the breed differences, Labradors and Retrievers have evolved very differently.

Activity Level

This is one of the big differences between us Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers. Labradors are extremely active, and we love any activity that involves the outdoors! We are also very energetic, needing a significant amount of exercise on a daily basis. Golden Retrievers, though still active, are not as high-energy as Labradors. Labradors are also generally more athletically built than Retrievers, having a higher average percentage of muscle mass.

Fur Type and Color

This is perhaps the most obvious difference between Labrador Retrievers and Retrievers. Us Labradors have a dual-layer coat, with a soft under-layer and an oily outer-layer. This outer-layer helps to give us our water-resistant properties, which is one of the reasons why we make such effective water hunting dogs! Golden Retrievers have long, curly fur, which is not water-resistant. Labrador Retrievers are classified as short-hair dogs, while Golden Retrievers are long-hair dogs.

Us Labradors can be very diverse, as we usually come in three very different fur colors. We can have Yellow, Chocolate, or Black fur. Sometimes, there are very rare fur colors seen in Labradors, such as Charcoal or Silver. Retrievers are usually colored from light golden to reddish brown, though most Retrievers are mid-range in color.

Grooming

Most Labrador Retriever owners would tell you that we can sometimes shed a lot! However, this is also true for Golden Retrievers. Because Retrievers are a long-hair breed, they are much more likely to develop fur matting and tangles than the short-haired Labrador Retriever. Also, because the Labrador Retriever's skin produces a higher amount of oil to nourish the fur, the Golden Retriever is a bit more prone to developing dry skin. It's highly recommended to groom a Retriever on a daily basis, to prevent fur mats and other possible problems. Us Labrador Retrievers, on the other hand, usually require grooming about two to three times per week. However, if we are shedding heavily due to a seasonal coat change (also called "blowing the coat"), daily grooming may be necessary.

Temperament

Labrador Retrievers are well-known for their agreeable temperament, though so are Retrievers. However, Golden Retrievers tend to be more relaxed than Labradors, which is also one of the reasons why they are more prone to becoming overweight. Labradors are energetic and active, usually being more prone to hyperactivity than Golden Retrievers.

Weight/Build

Us Labradors usually weigh a bit less than the average Retriever. The reason for this, is because Retrievers are generally not as active as Labrador Retrievers, which is also why Retrievers are much more prone to becoming overweight. However, us Labradors are usually a bit taller in average height than Golden Retrievers, mostly due to how our bone structure develops. We're also usually a bit more athletic, and are more likely to develop a higher percentage of muscle tissue.

This article was brought to you by Sean Green, at Pet Care. For more information on Dog Pet Care please visit our website!

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Golden Retriever's Common Illnesses - The 3 Major Health Affectors

Because they have been so popular over the last 50 years or so, Golden Retrievers have been over-bred, resulting in a genetic predisposition to experience specific health problems. Unfortunately, as greedy breeders often fail to screen their breeding animals, additional hereditary health problems are introduced to the breed. If you have a Golden, or plan to bring one into your home, you should know about the more common hereditary problems that may reduce the quality or length of your Golden Retriever's life.

Health Problems Known to Be Inherited by Golden Retrievers

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: When growing hip joints don't form properly, juvenile and adult Retrievers may have an uneven gait or even severe lameness. This inherited disorder is common to many large dogs, and while is not usually noticeable in puppies, hip dysplasia will begin to show when your Golden is between four and nine months old. The severity of the condition varies greatly from dog to dog, but most Goldens with hip dysplasia will develop arthritis as they age. Moderate exercise, weight control, and inflammatory medications will help with the discomfort of this problem. Not all Golden Retrievers will show, or even know about, their hip dysplasia if it's a mild form. Golden's with hip dysplasia can live long, happy lives, but they should not be bred.

Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is developmental problem in young dogs. It is not as common as hip dysplasia, but it can be aggravated by over-feeding and too much nutrition in early puppyhood. Care and treatment are the same as for hip dysplasia. And, of course, Golden Retrievers with hip dysplasia should not be bred.

Eye Disease: Golden Retrievers frequently suffer from hereditary cataracts. They can range from mild problems that do not interfere with your Golden's vision to severe cataracts that cause blindness as the dog ages. Eyelid and eyelash problems may be hereditary, though not all are. When the lids or lashes turn in, they may irritate the eyeball. Depending on the severity of this problem, surgery may be necessary. Because it's hard to tell whether eye diseases result from heredity or environment, it's best not to breed a Golden Retriever with frequent or chronic eye problems.

Heart Disease: Golden Retrievers are known to inherit Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) that may be hard to detect. Heart murmur is the best indicator, although it is not always present when the problem exists. Your veterinarian may be able to identify the problem by listening with a stethoscope or more invasive necropsy. If your Golden has SAS, consult with your veterinarian about the best treatments.

Golden Retriever Health Problems Suspected to be Inherited

Epilepsy: Characterized by seizures, epilepsy can result from environmental sources and viral infections. While watching your Golden Retriever go through a seizure is very uncomfortable, it may not be dangerous to your dog's long-term quality of life. You can get medications from your vet to control the seizures. Do not breed a Golden Retriever that has seizures to avoid the chance of passing the disorder on to its puppies.

Skin Allergies: The most common medical problem that Golden Retrievers experience is skin allergies, although it's difficult to know if they are genetic or environmental in nature. Your Golden may have skin allergies if it obsessively bites or scratches. It can even create bald spots in its coat if it goes untreated. Skin allergies are a natural reaction to flea, mite, and tick bites and can be reduced or avoided by regular grooming and shampooing with commercial flea and tick products. Your Golden could also be allergic to mold and other indoor air pollutants. Regular house-cleaning should reduce the problem. Diet can be very important to treating and avoiding allergic reactions in Golden Retrievers, so do your research to find the appropriate feeding regimen for your dog.

Hypothyroidism: Golden Retrievers affected by this failure of the thyroid gland to function properly may be obese or have problems maintaining a healthy coat. Some Golden's with hypothyroidism will also have seizures. However, most problems should resolve upon the administration of oral medicines. Assuring your Golden is generally healthy by providing a balanced nutritious diet, plenty of exercise, and a safe living environment will do much to prevent or reduce the impacts of hypothyroidism. Goldens with this problem may have more difficulty breeding than you'd expect, although it is recommended that you do not even try to breed a Golden Retriever with this or other hereditary conditions.

Tips on Selecting and Caring for Your Golden Retriever

These are a few of the medical problems often found in Golden Retrievers. It's an unfortunate irony that the more popular a dog is, the more likely breeding is to bring out health problems specific to the breed. One way to avoid these problems is to be very careful in selecting the breeder, shelter, or pet store that supplies your dog. Insist on reviewing the dog's records, and inspect the facility. Knowing that the offerer has a passionate love for Golden Retrievers is one way to assure your Golden is not plagued by the problems that result from breeding and over-breeding unhealthy dogs.

No matter what symptoms your Golden Retriever exhibits, the careful pet owner does not jump to conclusions or make uneducated diagnoses. If you are concerned about your Golden, be sure to take it to the vet as soon as you can. Rely on the education and experience of a certified veterinarian in identifying health problems and treating them.

Abhishek is an avid dog lover and he has got some great Dog Health Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 80 Page Ebook, "How To Take Care Of Your Dog's Health" from his website http://www.Dog-Tale.com/192/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.

Aug 2, Care Tips For Golden Retrievers -- What You Need To Know

Would you like your furry friend to look and feel his very best? Here are some care tips for Golden Retrievers that will help you do just that.

As beautiful as that Golden coat may be, your canine companion needs your help to maintain that healthy glow.

Proper grooming involves bathing (using an appropriate dog shampoo), brushing, and keeping an eye out for skin problems.

From brushing your dog's teeth to keeping his toenails trimmed, the time you spend on your Golden's care will make him feel great and look like a champ.

The advice "You are what you eat" applies to pets, too.

Learn how you can meet your dog's nutritional needs by following excellent dog feeding guidelines.

We'll also provide specific information on feeding a puppy.

And let's see if we can unravel the mystery about which type of dog food might be best for your Golden Retriever.

What about using dog treats as part of your dog's daily balanced nutrition?

You can always buy healthy dog treats (read the ingredient labels carefully), but why not try making your own?

Dog Treat Kitchen.com has lots of great dog treat recipes to get you started.

Every stage of your dog's development presents a unique set of circumstances.

We'll take a look at the best ways to meet the special needs of puppies, adults, and Golden oldies with care tips for Golden Retrievers of all ages.

Most Golden Retrievers are beloved indoor pets, so we'll examine the situation from both sides--keeping your dog safe from household hazards such as poisonous plants, and keeping your house safe from an enthusiastic, lively Golden by puppy-proofing your home.

Here's another great idea: a sturdy dog crate, used appropriately, can be both a safe haven for your furry friend and a protector of your house and sanity.

Where will your Golden companion sleep? If this is your first dog, you'll want to consider the options before you bring him home.

If circumstances prevent you from keeping a dog in the house, there are still ways to make him as comfortable as possible outside.

We'll look at some ideas for kennels and other outdoor care tips for Golden Retrievers in order to make the best of this less-than-ideal situation.

When it comes to your dog, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Here are some health care tips for Golden Retrievers that you can do at home to help keep your Golden in tip-top shape:

You've done your part well, but you still need a professional's help.

Let's talk about your veterinarian. She's an important part of responsible Golden Retriever care.

How do you choose one?

How can you experience relatively stress-free visits to the vet?

You might even get a break on the cost of dog health care if you choose to invest in pet insurance.

Every dog is different in his level of athletic ability, but there are some basic guidelines on Golden Retriever care when it comes to exercise.

We?ll look at a Golden?s wide range of energy levels and give you some ideas to help your Golden companion stay fit and happy.

Staying fit means more than just physical activity. It's important to provide mental stimulation for your pooch, too.

He'll be much happier that way, with less chance of becoming bored.

Boredom can lead to a host of behavior problems, so let's derail that train before it even heads down the track.

From puppyhood to the senior years, your canine friend relies on you for his food, shelter and companionship.

It's not difficult to take care of a Golden, but it requires a commitment on your part.

His options are limited. He needs you!

Feel free to browse through these care tips for Golden Retrievers and see what you can add to your collection.

I hope you'll find a useful suggestion you haven't thought of before, that will make your canine buddy even happier.

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Aug 30, Hip Dysplasia In Golden Retrievers -- Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers is a disorder that can range from mildly uncomfortable to totally debilitating.

Active sporting dogs, such as Goldens, are more prone to this disease than smaller, less active dogs. It's actually one of the most common inherited conditions in large breed dogs.

The word dysplasia means abnormal development, and was first diagnosed in the 1930s.

Hip dysplasia is caused by looseness in the hip joint that prevents the ball at the top of the thighbone from fitting tightly into the socket in the hip.

The loose fit of the ball-and-socket joint causes the ball to move in and out of the socket, which is a form of trauma.

This trauma causes inflammation and further damage to the joint.

Because the hip joint doesn't work correctly, it's prone to develop arthritis.

It also tends to worsen with age and excessive weight gain.

Hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers can affect one or both sides of a dog.

It can be aggravated by rapid growth, excessive nutritional supplementation, and obesity.

Extra stress on the joints during a dog's developmental stages (often caused by lots of jumping and running on slick floors or concrete) can also worsen the problem.

The condition covers a broad range of severity that includes mild, moderate, and severe dysplasia.

A severe case can make it difficult for a dog just to get outside to relieve himself.

Even mild hip dysplasia can cause painful arthritis in a sedentary companion animal, although some dysplastic dogs manage to live normal, active lives.

You can't always spot hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers by watching them walk. In fact, some affected dogs don't show any symptoms until they're several years old.

Signs of the disorder don't generally appear at all until a dog is at least five months old.

Some common symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs are: Difficulty walking Difficulty getting up from lying down or sitting Difficulty going up and down stairs Looks like he's swaying when he runs Difficulty jumping Doesn't like having his rear legs and hip area touched Tends to sit with both legs together on one side of his body Moves both rear legs together in the characteristic "bunny hop" when running (to keep the pressure off the weak joint)
Hip dysplasia can only be properly diagnosed by x-ray. The best age for a definite diagnosis is between 12 and 18 months.

If x-rays do confirm hip dysplasia, there are several options you can discuss with your veterinarian.

The treatment he'll recommend will depend on the severity of the symptoms.

In mild cases, weight control, moderate exercise, and pain relievers as needed may be enough to keep symptoms under control.

In more severe cases, surgery to correct hip dysplasia can be performed, which will repair some of the damage. And in very serious cases, the hips can actually be replaced with Teflon hips.

Most mild and moderate hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers can be properly managed to allow the affected dogs to lead relatively normal lives. Here are some ways to make a dysplastic dog more comfortable: Keep your dog at a healthy weight to avoid putting stress and strain on a joint that's already compromised. Avoid rapid growth spurts during adolescence by working with your vet to monitor your young dog's size and weight. Help your dog get reasonable amounts of moderate exercise--especially swimming--to help keep him mobile and limber. Don't be afraid to ask your vet for pain relievers if your dog is in obvious discomfort. It's all about quality of life, after all.

Avoid extreme physical stress from sports involving lots of jumping or jarring, like disk catching or flyball.

Those workouts wouldn't be a problem for a dog with normal hips, but hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers can sideline an athletic-minded dog in a hurry.

It's always a good idea to have your dog checked out by a vet before starting any new sport or activity, anyway.

And if your Golden Retriever is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, you'll want to switch gears to pursue more gentle activities, like walking and swimming.

Our Goldens are precious--treat them with lots of tender, loving care!

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Jul 30, Police Dogs -- Talented Golden Retrievers

Police dogs have many important jobs. What's the first kind of dog that pops into your head when you think about these talented canines?

It's probably not a Golden Retriever. But Goldens can actually fill many important positions in the law enforcement industry. Let's take a look.

The German Shepherd is probably the most well-known police dog.

But there are actually several dog breeds used in law enforcement, including Goldens.

Golden Retrievers are much more than just a pretty face.

They're incredibly talented, smart and easy to train.

Their exceptional sense of smell makes them an asset to any police department in the following areas: Drug Dogs -- Locating illegal drugs is a snap for a police drug dog, whether they're hidden in a school locker, a car, a suitcase, or a warehouse. Bomb Dogs -- Alerting to all types of explosive devices, these dogs can check out large areas quickly, bringing peace of mind and averting tragedy. Water Rescue Dogs -- These dogs help drowning people get to shore. Golden Retrievers have all the qualifications: strong swimming ability, an excellent sense of smell and an instinct for retrieving. Water Search Dogs -- When police suspect there's a body in a lake or river, these dogs can tell them exactly where it is. The dog can smell a totally submersed body, no matter how long it's been there, as he and his handler are transported over the water by boat. Cadaver Dogs -- It's an unsavory task, but a necessary one. These dogs are trained to find the tiniest bit of human remains that might provide the clue to solve a case or provide a grieving loved one closure after a disappearance. Arson Detection Dogs -- After a fire is put out, and everything is thoroughly soaked, arson dogs are still able to quickly sniff out any accelerant that might have been used to start the fire. Customs Dogs -- Golden Retrievers present a friendly face at customs as they quietly search for contraband items such as drugs, explosives, fruit, firearms, or large amounts of cash.

Border Patrol Dog -- It doesn't take a Golden long to sniff his way along a row of cars, speeding up proceedings along the borders of countries. Like customs dogs, they can find whatever shouldn't be coming across the border. Search and Rescue Dogs -- The Golden Retriever has a super sniffer and a friendly personality, a winning combination when searching for a lost child who might be scared by a German Shepherd police dog. He's so easy-going, he doesn't even mind rappelling down a cliff with his handler to reach a lost hiker.

By the way, it's amazing how many champion drug dogs and bomb dogs started out in animal shelters. They just had too much energy and prey drive for their owners.

But that's exactly what these special police dogs need to have in order to keep going when searching for illegal drugs, explosives, or a missing person.

The smart folks who create TV commercials have it all figured out.

Golden Retrievers are beautiful dogs!

That's why they show up in so many movies and commercials.

They're so friendly and gorgeous, you just want to reach out and pet them.

Many police departments have also figured out that if you have something as beautiful as a Golden Retriever, you should show it off!

Taking a Golden drug dog along when you make a presentation to the local schools about the dangers of drug use just makes good sense.

The students would much rather look at a gorgeous dog than a police officer, any day!

They're also happy to show off their canine detection abilities at schools, universities and public events.

When they're not on the job, these valuable dogs are spending time with their handlers just like any pet.

They love to go for long walks and play with whatever toys you give them.

But when it's time to head back to the police station, don't get in their way.

They have work to do!

You wouldn't buy a Golden Retriever to be a guard dog because of the breed's strong bite inhibition and love of people.

They might bark if someone tries to break into your house (maybe). More likely, they'd probably greet the intruder like a long-lost friend.

But if your police department is looking for a super sniffer, they've come to the right place. These gentle police dogs are worth their weight in gold.

I guess they're just the right color, then, aren't they?

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Aug 2, Care Tips For Golden Retrievers -- What You Need To Know

Would you like your furry friend to look and feel his very best? Here are some care tips for Golden Retrievers that will help you do just that.

As beautiful as that Golden coat may be, your canine companion needs your help to maintain that healthy glow.

Proper grooming involves bathing (using an appropriate dog shampoo), brushing, and keeping an eye out for skin problems.

From brushing your dog's teeth to keeping his toenails trimmed, the time you spend on your Golden's care will make him feel great and look like a champ.

The advice "You are what you eat" applies to pets, too.

Learn how you can meet your dog's nutritional needs by following excellent dog feeding guidelines.

We'll also provide specific information on feeding a puppy.

And let's see if we can unravel the mystery about which type of dog food might be best for your Golden Retriever.

What about using dog treats as part of your dog's daily balanced nutrition?

You can always buy healthy dog treats (read the ingredient labels carefully), but why not try making your own?

Dog Treat Kitchen.com has lots of great dog treat recipes to get you started.

Every stage of your dog's development presents a unique set of circumstances.

We'll take a look at the best ways to meet the special needs of puppies, adults, and Golden oldies with care tips for Golden Retrievers of all ages.

Most Golden Retrievers are beloved indoor pets, so we'll examine the situation from both sides--keeping your dog safe from household hazards such as poisonous plants, and keeping your house safe from an enthusiastic, lively Golden by puppy-proofing your home.

Here's another great idea: a sturdy dog crate, used appropriately, can be both a safe haven for your furry friend and a protector of your house and sanity.

Where will your Golden companion sleep? If this is your first dog, you'll want to consider the options before you bring him home.

If circumstances prevent you from keeping a dog in the house, there are still ways to make him as comfortable as possible outside.

We'll look at some ideas for kennels and other outdoor care tips for Golden Retrievers in order to make the best of this less-than-ideal situation.

When it comes to your dog, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Here are some health care tips for Golden Retrievers that you can do at home to help keep your Golden in tip-top shape:

You've done your part well, but you still need a professional's help.

Let's talk about your veterinarian. She's an important part of responsible Golden Retriever care.

How do you choose one?

How can you experience relatively stress-free visits to the vet?

You might even get a break on the cost of dog health care if you choose to invest in pet insurance.

Every dog is different in his level of athletic ability, but there are some basic guidelines on Golden Retriever care when it comes to exercise.

We?ll look at a Golden?s wide range of energy levels and give you some ideas to help your Golden companion stay fit and happy.

Staying fit means more than just physical activity. It's important to provide mental stimulation for your pooch, too.

He'll be much happier that way, with less chance of becoming bored.

Boredom can lead to a host of behavior problems, so let's derail that train before it even heads down the track.

From puppyhood to the senior years, your canine friend relies on you for his food, shelter and companionship.

It's not difficult to take care of a Golden, but it requires a commitment on your part.

His options are limited. He needs you!

Feel free to browse through these care tips for Golden Retrievers and see what you can add to your collection.

I hope you'll find a useful suggestion you haven't thought of before, that will make your canine buddy even happier.

Return from Care Tips For Golden Retrievers

to Lovable Golden Retriever Home Page

View the original article here

Sep 6, Grooming Golden Retrievers -- Tips For Best Results

Are you worried that grooming Golden Retrievers might be more trouble than it's worth? Not at all!
It's really a great bonding time, as most dogs love being brushed, and they love you for doing it!

If you've ever wondered how to groom a dog, read on for some helpful tips.

Dog grooming does a lot more than just untangle and remove dead hair.

A thorough brushing stimulates the oil glands, which reduces dander and keeps that Golden fur coat gleaming.

It also massages your dog's muscles, which is especially helpful for Golden oldies who don't get much exercise. And who doesn't like a good massage?

Grooming Golden Retrievers regularly helps you find any lumps or bumps on or under the skin so you can take care of them before they get to be a big problem.

It?s also a good time to take care of your dog?s eyes, ears, teeth, and nails.

By the way, parasites such as fleas, lice, mites and ticks hate to be disturbed. Brushing your dog daily to loosen his hair will stir up these little critters and help you find them easier.

Methods and frequency of grooming Golden Retrievers vary depending on their coats.

Golden coats range from short to long, thin to thick and straight to curly. What works great for one Golden may be too much or too little care for another.

My own Golden, Peaches (pictured here with Bitsy), had a thinner coat than most, and didn't need as much attention as some others might.

You can get away with a weekly brushing for the nearly maintenance-free coat described in the breed standard, but that won't work for a heavily coated dog. He'll need to be brushed daily to keep his thick coat in the best condition.

Your own Golden's grooming needs may lie somewhere between these two. Your dog would love to be brushed every day, but if you're short on time, you'll need to at least brush him often enough to avoid mats and keep an eye on his coat condition.

Did you know that Golden Retrievers have a double coat? That's why using a flat brush may groom the topcoat on the surface but leave the undercoat still matted. As you're grooming, you need to keep checking to make sure you've gotten to the bottom of the undercoat.

You don't need to invest in a lot of dog grooming supplies, and pet grooming techniques vary a bit from one dog to another, but here?s a good routine to follow when you groom a Golden Retriever:

Using a slicker brush, begin at the front of your dog and work your way back, being sure to thoroughly brush his neck and throat and behind his ears. Work backward from the neck, to the shoulder, to the elbows and legs. Groom the belly, working upward over the rib cage to the back. Work on the hind legs, and finish with the tail. As a continuation of the spine, the tail is a particularly sensitive part of the dog's body, so be very gentle.

Here are some more helpful tips for grooming Golden Retrievers: Always brush him the same way every time so he'll learn what to expect. Brush in the same direction as the hair grows. While brushing, be sure to give your dog a lot of praise and let him know what a goooood dog he is! Only move your dog's legs in natural positions. Be careful not to pull or twist his legs or raise them too high as you groom. Check between his toes where hair often grows in clumps. You'll probably need to trim this toe hair from time to time. Brush all the way down to the skin, letting the massaging action stimulate blood circulation, and loosen and remove flakes of dandruff. Watch for any cuts or scrapes on the skin itself. Use a comb on those long, pretty "feathers" on his legs and tail. They're a great catchall for burrs and other junk.
It's just a fact of life--most Golden Retrievers shed a lot, all year round. But you can expect even bigger clouds of golden fluff in your house during the spring and fall.

When your dog goes through these major twice-a-year sheddings, his undercoat (the soft, downy white fur) often comes out in big clumps. It's everywhere!

During these extra-hairy times, grooming Golden Retrievers several times a day is really the only way to keep that fluffy undercoat from ending up all over the house. (And don't even think about wearing black!)

The best way to make sure your Golden's new undercoat grows in lovely and healthy is to remove as much of the old undercoat as possible.

You can help loosen the old hair by running your hands through his coat, massaging the skin of his shoulders, neck, back, sides and rear legs (and collecting handfuls of hair in the process!).

This is a good time to invest in one of the best pet grooming accessories on the market--a grooming rake. It works really well to help you remove the dead undercoat, taking it out in huge chunks.

Clumps of matted hair can quickly form in your dog's "armpits" where his legs rub against each other, as well as under his ears, between his toes, and basically anywhere he scratches or chews more than usual.

Mats don't go away by themselves. They get bigger and more knotted as they work their way closer to the skin.

They can get very painful as they pull and pinch at your pooch's skin.

The easiest way to remove mats is by dealing with them before they get too big.

Grooming Golden Retrievers daily will help you find the mats while they're still manageable.

If you discover a mat, you can gently comb it out by separating the individual hairs with your fingers or a comb (just like knots in your own hair). If the mats are too big to untangle, they should be carefully cut out.

First, slip a comb between the mat and the skin to make sure you don't cut your dog. Then, using a pair of blunt-end scissors, cut upward into the mat (rather than straight across), to make a smaller mark in his lovely coat. Don't worry--it will fill in soon enough.

Goldens are great explorers, and picking up burrs on their travels is just what they do.

You can usually get these out with a comb. But if they're really stuck, just apply a bit of mineral oil, then work the burr out gently.

While grooming Golden Retrievers, it?s important to keep an eye out for seasonal grass seeds in the coat.

These seeds can penetrate under the skin, causing major problems if they?re not removed.

You can usually deal with a dirty dog by letting the mud dry and then brushing it out. But if your Golden has found something really stinky to roll in, you may need to resort to a bath.

If your dog gets into a can of paint or a bunch of tree sap, do NOT apply turpentine! It irritates the skin and can poison your dog if he licks himself (as he will, for sure).

Mineral oil is a slower remedy, but it works. As a last resort, you can also carefully cut out the paint or sappy spot.

Here's an easy way to remove the chewing gum or tar that your dog stepped on or rolled in: Hold an ice cube to the sticky stuff. When it hardens, work it out gently with your fingers.

If it's really stuck, pour some mineral oil on the hardened tar or gum, and ease it out with your fingers. Yes, this also works when your kids get gum in their hair!

Grooming Golden Retrievers is easier if you start early, with good puppy grooming.

Of course, a Golden puppy coat doesn't really need much attention. But if he gets used to a grooming routine from an early age, he'll love spending that time with you.

And he's so cute and fluffy, how could you not want to brush him?

Just give him a quick brushing with a good rounded bristle brush every day. Rub his ears, play with his feet, tickle his belly, and check his teeth daily. It's all one big game to Puppy Pete, anyway!

If you get your puppy used to being handled like this every day, it'll be easier when you need to give him medicine, have your vet examine him, or anything else you need to do with him.

And, with your hands on your pup like this for a few minutes each day, you won't miss a single burr, tick, cut, mat or developing skin problem.

Who knew that grooming Golden Retrievers could be so easy?

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Jul 30, Police Dogs -- Talented Golden Retrievers

Police dogs have many important jobs. What's the first kind of dog that pops into your head when you think about these talented canines?

It's probably not a Golden Retriever. But Goldens can actually fill many important positions in the law enforcement industry. Let's take a look.

The German Shepherd is probably the most well-known police dog.

But there are actually several dog breeds used in law enforcement, including Goldens.

Golden Retrievers are much more than just a pretty face.

They're incredibly talented, smart and easy to train.

Their exceptional sense of smell makes them an asset to any police department in the following areas: Drug Dogs -- Locating illegal drugs is a snap for a police drug dog, whether they're hidden in a school locker, a car, a suitcase, or a warehouse. Bomb Dogs -- Alerting to all types of explosive devices, these dogs can check out large areas quickly, bringing peace of mind and averting tragedy. Water Rescue Dogs -- These dogs help drowning people get to shore. Golden Retrievers have all the qualifications: strong swimming ability, an excellent sense of smell and an instinct for retrieving. Water Search Dogs -- When police suspect there's a body in a lake or river, these dogs can tell them exactly where it is. The dog can smell a totally submersed body, no matter how long it's been there, as he and his handler are transported over the water by boat. Cadaver Dogs -- It's an unsavory task, but a necessary one. These dogs are trained to find the tiniest bit of human remains that might provide the clue to solve a case or provide a grieving loved one closure after a disappearance. Arson Detection Dogs -- After a fire is put out, and everything is thoroughly soaked, arson dogs are still able to quickly sniff out any accelerant that might have been used to start the fire. Customs Dogs -- Golden Retrievers present a friendly face at customs as they quietly search for contraband items such as drugs, explosives, fruit, firearms, or large amounts of cash.

Border Patrol Dog -- It doesn't take a Golden long to sniff his way along a row of cars, speeding up proceedings along the borders of countries. Like customs dogs, they can find whatever shouldn't be coming across the border. Search and Rescue Dogs -- The Golden Retriever has a super sniffer and a friendly personality, a winning combination when searching for a lost child who might be scared by a German Shepherd police dog. He's so easy-going, he doesn't even mind rappelling down a cliff with his handler to reach a lost hiker.

By the way, it's amazing how many champion drug dogs and bomb dogs started out in animal shelters. They just had too much energy and prey drive for their owners.

But that's exactly what these special police dogs need to have in order to keep going when searching for illegal drugs, explosives, or a missing person.

The smart folks who create TV commercials have it all figured out.

Golden Retrievers are beautiful dogs!

That's why they show up in so many movies and commercials.

They're so friendly and gorgeous, you just want to reach out and pet them.

Many police departments have also figured out that if you have something as beautiful as a Golden Retriever, you should show it off!

Taking a Golden drug dog along when you make a presentation to the local schools about the dangers of drug use just makes good sense.

The students would much rather look at a gorgeous dog than a police officer, any day!

They're also happy to show off their canine detection abilities at schools, universities and public events.

When they're not on the job, these valuable dogs are spending time with their handlers just like any pet.

They love to go for long walks and play with whatever toys you give them.

But when it's time to head back to the police station, don't get in their way.

They have work to do!

You wouldn't buy a Golden Retriever to be a guard dog because of the breed's strong bite inhibition and love of people.

They might bark if someone tries to break into your house (maybe). More likely, they'd probably greet the intruder like a long-lost friend.

But if your police department is looking for a super sniffer, they've come to the right place. These gentle police dogs are worth their weight in gold.

I guess they're just the right color, then, aren't they?

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Aug 30, Hip Dysplasia In Golden Retrievers -- Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers is a disorder that can range from mildly uncomfortable to totally debilitating.

Active sporting dogs, such as Goldens, are more prone to this disease than smaller, less active dogs. It's actually one of the most common inherited conditions in large breed dogs.

The word dysplasia means abnormal development, and was first diagnosed in the 1930s.

Hip dysplasia is caused by looseness in the hip joint that prevents the ball at the top of the thighbone from fitting tightly into the socket in the hip.

The loose fit of the ball-and-socket joint causes the ball to move in and out of the socket, which is a form of trauma.

This trauma causes inflammation and further damage to the joint.

Because the hip joint doesn't work correctly, it's prone to develop arthritis.

It also tends to worsen with age and excessive weight gain.

Hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers can affect one or both sides of a dog.

It can be aggravated by rapid growth, excessive nutritional supplementation, and obesity.

Extra stress on the joints during a dog's developmental stages (often caused by lots of jumping and running on slick floors or concrete) can also worsen the problem.

The condition covers a broad range of severity that includes mild, moderate, and severe dysplasia.

A severe case can make it difficult for a dog just to get outside to relieve himself.

Even mild hip dysplasia can cause painful arthritis in a sedentary companion animal, although some dysplastic dogs manage to live normal, active lives.

You can't always spot hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers by watching them walk. In fact, some affected dogs don't show any symptoms until they're several years old.

Signs of the disorder don't generally appear at all until a dog is at least five months old.

Some common symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs are: Difficulty walking Difficulty getting up from lying down or sitting Difficulty going up and down stairs Looks like he's swaying when he runs Difficulty jumping Doesn't like having his rear legs and hip area touched Tends to sit with both legs together on one side of his body Moves both rear legs together in the characteristic "bunny hop" when running (to keep the pressure off the weak joint)
Hip dysplasia can only be properly diagnosed by x-ray. The best age for a definite diagnosis is between 12 and 18 months.

If x-rays do confirm hip dysplasia, there are several options you can discuss with your veterinarian.

The treatment he'll recommend will depend on the severity of the symptoms.

In mild cases, weight control, moderate exercise, and pain relievers as needed may be enough to keep symptoms under control.

In more severe cases, surgery to correct hip dysplasia can be performed, which will repair some of the damage. And in very serious cases, the hips can actually be replaced with Teflon hips.

Most mild and moderate hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers can be properly managed to allow the affected dogs to lead relatively normal lives. Here are some ways to make a dysplastic dog more comfortable: Keep your dog at a healthy weight to avoid putting stress and strain on a joint that's already compromised. Avoid rapid growth spurts during adolescence by working with your vet to monitor your young dog's size and weight. Help your dog get reasonable amounts of moderate exercise--especially swimming--to help keep him mobile and limber. Don't be afraid to ask your vet for pain relievers if your dog is in obvious discomfort. It's all about quality of life, after all.

Avoid extreme physical stress from sports involving lots of jumping or jarring, like disk catching or flyball.

Those workouts wouldn't be a problem for a dog with normal hips, but hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers can sideline an athletic-minded dog in a hurry.

It's always a good idea to have your dog checked out by a vet before starting any new sport or activity, anyway.

And if your Golden Retriever is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, you'll want to switch gears to pursue more gentle activities, like walking and swimming.

Our Goldens are precious--treat them with lots of tender, loving care!

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