Goldens were bred to retrieve, so you know they can play a good game of catch. They also love the water, which makes them a great companion on summer days at the pool. Their intelligence allows them to fill a variety of roles, including service dogs for the blind. They also comfort people and help aid relief efforts. Like the residents of Newtown after the tragic shooting last December. Goldens are basically the ultimate family dog. Read more…
People give up their dogs for a variety of reasons – time limitations, divorce or other changes in family composition, financial problems, expensive and/or difficult medical care required for the dog. The purpose of this page is to help you keep your dog, if possible, and to let you know about the various options for turning your dog over to someone else. Unfortunately too many dogs – yes, even wonderful Golden Retrievers – are just abandoned. Read more…
Sometimes, the body goes on the attack against itself. The resulting condition is known as an autoimmune disease. Labrador retrievers are among the breeds most likely to suffer from immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, or IMHA. This occurs when a Lab’s immune system starts attacking his red blood cells. IMHA usually strikes middle-aged Labs, with females more susceptible than males. Your dog’s red blood cells, produced in the bone marrow, bring oxygen to the rest of his body. Read more…
The Labrador retriever’s body type has evolved to suit his job, as well the preference of breeders, owners and kennel organizations. In America, these variations are categorized as either English or American Labrador types. The two country’s kennel organization standards also differ slightly, while generally describing the Lab we love. In America, the Labrador, referred to as an English show/confirmation Labrador, generally is a stocky, short legged, powerful, Rocky Balboa-type Lab, with a broad head. Read more…
Labrador retrievers are eternally puppies. They love to play, to eat and to make friends, as their cat-scratched noses attest. Labs’ high energy levels can cause restlessness, and trouble, if they are not provided near-constant entertainment well into adulthood. Meanwhile, some medical conditions can make the already restless breed more so. Natural Energy Labradors are natural workers, bred to have the stamina to work long days. They initially helped fishermen retrieve nets from cold waters. Read more…
Bred for pursuits such as duck and waterfowl hunting, Labradors are water dogs, and their double-layered coat is thick and oily, both to protect against cold, and to repel water away from their skin. In many ways, this makes Labs almost self-cleaning, and means they don’t need regular baths with dog shampoo, which can strip away the natural protective oils on their coats. Most Labs only need a shampoo bath two or three times a year. Read more…
Do you have a friend who has a special Golden Retriever dog in her life? If so, why not give her a Golden Retriever gift basket filled with gifts for both dog and owner. If you’re so inclined, it is simple and inexpensive to make your own basket full of Golden Retriever gifts. First, you will need to find a large basket. The best place to find an inexpensive basket is at your local craft store. Read more…
Unless you have a dog-friendly workplace, you are probably forced to leave your best friend home alone while you work. If you come home to a howling pup, wet spots on the carpet or chew holes in the couch, your Labrador may have separation anxiety. Causes and Cures A number of changes in the life of your dog can result in an excessive amount of anxiety when you leave him home alone for the day. Read more…
Golden retrievers are known for their flowing, sunny coat. However, puppy goldens are more fluff than flow. It does not take long for a golden puppy to begin growing feathers in his puppy fluff, which are the start of the long, full coat he’ll have as an adult. Most golden puppies begin growing the start of feathers in their short, fluffy puppy coat at around 3 months of age, but this depends on their heritage and bloodlines. Read more…
Problems such as ear infections and ear mites are common in golden retrievers. Their large floppy ears are literally a breeding ground for problems. Symptoms of ear mites include excessive scratching of ears, head-shaking, strong odor and a discharge with the appearance of coffee grounds. Step 1 Mix equal amounts of white vinegar and warm water. Dip a clean cotton ball or cloth in the solution and gently wipe the inside of the ears down. Step 2 Read more…
