Golden Retrievers are the preferred option for many people who wish to own a dog. They are renowned as show dogs, obedience competitors, hunting dogs or any combination of these characteristics, which make them a preferable choice of breed. Once you decide that you want to own a Golden Retriever you will be enchanted with an excellent dog that will not disappoint.

One of the most affectionate and loyal breeds, Golden Retrievers are easy to school due to their high intelligence and make excellent companions because of their placid disposition. They make excellent watchdogs due to their loud bark which they will do if anything is out of the ordinary, but still make ideal friends for children of all ages. Any affection you show them will be returned with unreserved loyalty as Golden Retrievers need to be treated as part of the family.

Brushing your Golden Retriever regularly is inescapable as they shed their hair constantly, noticeably more so in the spring. A Golden Retrievers coat is important in assessing his health, so it is imperative that you brush and comb him daily and pay particular attention to the dense undercoat.

They love the water and will take every chance to get wet, so consideration is needed when exercising your Golden Retriever and what route you take. They may be reluctant at first to take to the water, but eventually there will be no stopping them. It is worth bearing in mind, however, that frustration can be the reward when they are forever coming home either wet or muddy.

Golden Retrievers, similar to other dogs, have daily needs that consideration must be given to. Most importantly are the emotive requirements, which is easily resolved by ensuring he is treated as an essential part of the family life. More effort is needed, however, in providing outlets for his active nature with daily physical exercise.

Admiration and attention are vital for a Golden Retriever and long periods of loneliness are not ideal. A busy life or long periods away from home are not an ideal environment for a Golden Retriever and a another breed of dog should be considered. A family environment is the best situation for a Golden Retriever, especially as they constantly need attention and need to be around you at all times.

To avoid getting a Golden Retriever with bad habits it is probably preferable to acquire a puppy rather than an adult dog. Then you can be fully responsible for it's schooling. The rewards of this are well worth the effort although, at times, frustration will creep in, especially when time is short. A puppy would not be an ideal choice if you don't have a lot of spare time or you quickly get frustrated. Appropriately a better option would be a Golden Retriever that is already house broken.

For the companionship that you are seeking, Golden Retrievers as a breed of dog are an exceptional choice. Whatever pastime you are involved in they will be a willing partner. They love the outdoors and, if you include your Golden Retriever in whatever your family is involved with, you will have a friend for life.