The Complete Golden Retriever Handbook by Linda Whitwam

Author:Linda Whitwam
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Canine Handbooks
Published: 2018-04-27T00:00:00+00:00

Establish a Routine

Establish an exercise regime early in your dog’s life. If possible, get him used to walks at the same time every day, at a time that fits in with your daily routine. For example, take your dog out after his morning feed, then again in the afternoon and a toilet trip last thing at night. Golden Retrievers are instinctive swimmers and this is a great way for dogs to exercise. (Photo courtesy of Angie and Ray Gait, Sonodora Golden Retrievers, Hampshire).

Many veterinary practices now use water tanks, not only for remedial therapy, but also for canine recreation.

They will dash in and out of the water all day long if you’ll let them, but remember that swimming is a lot more strenuous for a dog than walking or even running. Don’t constantly throw that stick or ball into the water - your Golden Retriever will fetch it back until he drops; the same is true if he is following you on your cycle. Overstretching him could place a strain on his heart. He should exercise within his limits. We advise gently drying under your Golden’s ear flaps after swimming to reduce the risk of ear infections.

Whatever routine you decide on, stick to it. If you begin by taking your dog out three times a day and then suddenly stop, he may become restless, attention-seeking and possibly destructive because he has been used to more exercise. Conversely, don’t expect a dog used to very little exercise to suddenly go on day-long hikes; he will struggle. Golden Retrievers make suitable hiking or jogging companions, but they need to work up to longer sessions - and such strenuous activity is not at all suitable for puppies.

To those owners who say their dog is happy and getting enough exercise playing in the yard or garden, just show him his lead and see how he reacts. Do you think he is excited at the prospect of leaving the home and going for a walk? Of course he is. Nothing can compensate for interesting new scents, meeting other dogs, playing games, frolicking in the snow or going swimming.

Owning a Golden Retriever requires a big commitment from owners – you are looking at a lot of daily exercise for 10 or more years. Don’t think that as your dog gets older he won’t need exercising. Older dogs need exercise to keep their body, joints and systems functioning properly. They need a less strenuous regime – they are usually happier with more frequent shorter walks, but still enough to keep them physically and mentally active. Again, every dog is different, some are willing and able to keep on running to the end of their lives. Regular exercise can add months or even years to a dog’s life.

The exception is if your old or sick dog is struggling – he will show you that he doesn’t feel well enough to walk far by stopping and looking at you or sitting down and refusing to move.

Most Golden Retrievers love

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