Now that you've decided that you want a dog, make a list of what you want your dog to do, then compare your list with characteristics of the many breeds accessible. If you've narrowed your choice down to the Golden retriever then there are a few things you has to know about selecting a golden pup.
Golden retrievers fit many descriptions. They fit if you want a beautiful animal, a good family oriented pet, a hunting dog, an obedience worker or just a playmate for your kids. Goldens are multifaceted animals. They work as guides for the blind, as tracking dogs, as narcotic detection dogs, for commercials and advertisements among other things.
Think carefully, if you're appearing for a watch dog then the golden retriever isn't for you. Its size and loud bark might deter the intruder, except an average Golden is friendly, gentle and loves to move things all over in its mouth, which can easily be the intruder's flashlight!
Goldens shed hair almost the whole year, more so in spring, so if you're picky about hair then re-think your choice. Again, Goldens love to get wet so your Golden will be wet, and potentially muddy more often than not.
Take time to learn about the breed before you think of appearing, contact owners of Golden retrievers and locate all there's to know. It depends on what you prefer - whether or not to bring up it yourself, which could be quite exasperating at times, or get
one that is home experienced.
You surely want a healthy little fella who will grow no more than be a sound, healthy representative of the breed. If you take care in your selection now, it will save you a lot of heartache and money around future. Indiscriminately-produced puppies have health issues, poor temperaments, breed disqualifications etc.
Look for more than cuteness. With a sturdy build, direct legs, firm and muscular, the pup has to be squirmy and active when first picked up. Then the pup should be willing to allow itself to be held and cuddled for a short time. Clean and thick coats; no discharge from eyes, no nose and ear irritation; and no pot-bellied pups are second on your list of things to look for.
Then gums should be pink, not pale and there should be dark pigment all over the eyes, along with black noses and footpads. This is vital if you plan to send the dog to dog displays. White markings aren't approved in displays. There are basic differences in pups of varied litters.
Like there might be one litter that is genetically predisposed for a larger energy level and others who have low energy levels. A few might be extremely dominating, others not. So select your pup depending on the person it's for. Contact your breeder who can give you helpful advice on the varied temperaments of pups and whether or not the pup is suited to your house and vice versa.