When fully grown, golden retrievers reach between 22-24 inches and weigh 55-60 pounds. They live to around 10-12 years old.
The golden retriever breed originated in Scotland in the mid-19th century. At that time, wildfowl hunting was the favorite pastime for the wealthy Scottish gentry. The owner of one highland estate, the 1st Baron Tweedmouth, crossed his yellow wavy-coated retriever to a tweed water spaniel. This pairing produced four pups that turned out to be excellent gundogs. Further crosses with other retrievers, spaniels, setters and even a bloodhound were made.
Golden retrievers have a thick, waterproof coat that they shed twice a year. They also shed moderately on an ongoing basis like other puppies. Most of the time, a good brushing-out once or twice a week will remove the majority of the shed before it has a chance to fall. During heavy shedding, brushing is best done daily. Baths help to loosen their falling hair during this period. Otherwise, golden retrievers only require occasional bathing to keep them clean.
Golden retrievers are cheerful and trustworthy and forgiving of any mistakes, especially with children. In fact, they are too nice to be guard dogs! They are pretty easy to train since they really want to please their owners.
As they remain enthusiastically puppy-like for many years, early obedience training is important. Good manners and calmness need emphasis — this includes the tendency to beg for food and chew on objects. Be sure to have toys handy so they can carry things around in their mouth.
Goldens are generally healthy puppies and are very enthusiastic about exercise! These energetic pups love outdoor play. Being bred to retrieve waterfowl for hours on end, swimming and fetching are natural pastimes. In fact, they will probably bring back everything you throw whether you like it or not!
Keep your golden retriever puppy healthy and occupied by taking them for energetic walks for at least an hour daily. Two brisk walks each day is perfect, and swimming is always welcome.
Golden retrievers are true people’s pups and are adaptable to almost any lifestyle. They want to enthusiastically meet everyone — strangers, other dogs, in fact anyone they think will give them the time of day. With their patient, forgiving nature, they are an ideal choice for active families with small children.
Call (813) 444-4365 for more information on any of our puppies for adoption. We have Golden Retrievers for sale in Tampa, Bradenton, Pinellas Park, Sarasota, Wesley Chapel, St. Petersburg, and all around the greater bay area.
