168 Sunrise Lane , Mill Hall • 570-377-0340 www . sweetdreamsgroomandboard . com
Breed All About It !
Spotlight on : The Golden Retriever
Description : A Golden Retriever ' s outer coat is thick and water-repellent , and can be straight or wavy . They come in all shades of gold , from light to dark , and a more rare shade of nearly white . They have a sturdy , muscular build , broad head , feathery tail , and friendly , intelligent eyes that charm just about everyone they meet !
Temperament : The Golden Retriever is part of the sporting group of dogs , and was originally bred as a hunting companion for retrieving waterfowl . It continues to be one of the most popular family dogs in the United States . This breed is affectionate , playful , obedient , and loyal to a fault . The fun-loving Retriever makes an ideal pet for the whole family to love . Their joyous , puppyish behavior lasts well into adulthood . Not surprisingly , it lives up to its name as a great retriever , reveling in games of catch and carrying objects around in its mouth - balls , toys , or best of all , smelly socks ! But while it enjoys its active time outdoors , the Golden Retriever is calm indoors , making it a great household pet for any type of family . This breed is highly regarded for its love of human companionship . Its enthusiasm for learning new things and ability to quickly pick up on new commands makes the Golden Retriever a pleasure , and among the easiest of breeds to train . They are very adept at hunting and field work , as guides for the blind , and in search-and-rescue , and do well and enjoy obedience and other competitive events , too .
Average Height / Weight : Golden Retrievers are generally 20 - 24 inches in height , and weigh between 55 - 80 pounds .
Health Issues : Some of the Retriever ’ s minor health problems include hypothyroidism , sub-aortic stenosis ( SAS ), eye disorders , elbow dysplasia , skin issues , mast cell tumors , and seizures . Osteosarcoma is also occasionally seen in Golden Retrievers . Major health concerns for the breed include lymphoma , canine hip dysplasia ( CHD ), and hemangiosarcoma . To identify these conditions early , a veterinarian may recommend heart , hip , thyroid , eye , or elbow tests during routine checkups .
Exercise : It ’ s important for a Retriever to maintain a daily exercise routine , or take part in physically challenging games . Hiking , jogging , or just going for a romp in the yard are good activities to expend this breed ' s energy so he doesn ' t engage in destructive behavior .
Life Expectancy : Between 10 and 13 years .
Grooming : Goldens shed moderately in summer and winter , and more heavily in spring and fall . To encourage turnover of the coat and minimize buildup of hair inside the house , it ’ s best to routinely brush a Golden ' s coat at least twice a week . A bath once or twice a month is sufficient .
Sweet Dreams Groom and Board
168 Sunrise Lane , Mill Hall • 570-377-0340 www . sweetdreamsgroomandboard . com
Ask us about Doggy Day Care ! Drop your pets off while you ' re at work or running errands ... Reasonable rates and a great way to socialize your dogs !
Pawsitively Pets -- October 7