Adopting A Golden Retriever Puppy – 7 pics
Who does not adore a golden retriever puppy? The perfect family dog is also the perfect family puppy. Perhaps you want the perfect exercise partner or hunting companion? Perhaps you want to groom the perfect service or guide dog, or an agility or obedience champion? Then you want to learn more about golden retriever puppy adoption.
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Do you want to buy or adopt a golden retriever puppy? Can you adopt a pure bred puppy? Goldens are such a popular breed, that it is easy to adopt a pure bred puppy. There are even organizations such as shelters and rescue groups that specialize in rescuing goldens and making them available for adoption. Other good places to begin your search are the ASPCA and petfinder.com.
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Adopting a dog usually involves a fee from $100 to $300, and puppies are generally more expensive. However, this fee is cheaper than the cost of buying a puppy, and the money will go to the shelter. Most shelters are non-profit organizations, so your fee will help keep up the shelter and will help other needy animals. Also, shelter dogs most often have had a medical check-up and some degree of socializing.
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Why would you buy from a breeder? Buying a golden retriever puppy from a breeder is more expensive. If you get lucky, you could find someone selling golden puppies for as little as $150. A breeder might start selling puppies for $250 at the low end of the scale. If you want a light cream golden retriever puppy with champion blood lines from a reputable breeder, you could pay over $2,000.
Buying from a breeder will allow you to examine the pedigree of the dog you are buying. This is especially important with goldens, since their most common health problems are genetic in nature. A reputable breeder will have paperwork certifying the health of his/her goldens. The parents of a puppy should have OFA certification for hip dysplasia. Also look for Orthopedic Foundation for Animals certification for knees and heart, and CERF certification for eyes. Finally, breeders may offer a puppy guarantee, so if you are not satisfied, you can return your pet.
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How do you choose the right puppy? It is a tremendous advantage to spend time with a puppy's parents. That way you can gauge the future look, personality, and health of your puppy. A golden puppy will typically have a lighter coat, and by looking at his/her ears you can determine the color of your future dog. Which puppy do you choose? By spending time with the litter, you can gauge the personalities of the puppies.
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Look for puppies in the center of the group, who aren't acting overly aggressive or submissive. Which friendly puppies run toward you? Finally, spend time alone with each puppy. With care, pick up your puppy and try petting him/her. Does the puppy enjoy your company? Do noises and sudden movements scare him/her?
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Prepare for your puppy's arrival. Golden retrievers like to chew, so have some chew toys ready ahead of time. Puppy proof your home at your dog's height by removing toxins and sharp objects. Goldens like exercise and human interaction, and remember your puppy will grow into a large dog. Older goldens can be given to over-eating, but growing puppies need their food. Don't be afraid to feed your puppy real meat; some owners even recommend it over commercial dog food. Be prepared for weekly brushing; goldens are not ideal dogs for people with sensitive allergies. Goldens are known to be smart dogs, and learn faster with positive training. Finally, look after your best friend's health. Start with an annual check-up with the veterinarian.
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