5 Things You Didn’t Know About Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Their beautiful coats and seemingly always happy and friendly demeanor makes them favorites of families everywhere.

Goldens are also highly valued for their loyalty and intelligence. They are very active and love to play with children, but I’m guessing there’s a good chance you already knew that!

But what don’t you know about our beloved Goldens? Read on to learn 5 interesting facts about these beautiful, incredibly sweet doggies!

1. Golden Retrievers are cross bred

Contrary to what many believe, Goldens did not appear until relatively recently in our history. A royal known as Baron Tweedmouth lived alongside the Scottish border near the Tweed River and was well known for hunting.

He kept many types of retriever dog breeds, but they often did not survive the severe conditions. To remedy the problem he sought to create a new kind of breed. He crossed a Tweed Water Spaniel with a Wavy-Coated Retriever, and the first yellow coated dog was born.

It was then cross-bred again with a Bloodhound, which gave birth to the first Golden Retriever.

2. Golden Retrievers look after cats

You’ve probably seen plenty of movies where cats and dogs and all kinds of other animals are peacefully coexisting in one home. But while this certainly happens in real life, not all breeds of dog take to it easily.

Goldens, on the other hand, are well known for their love for practically anyone, including cats. Put a Golden and a cat in the same home, and the Golden will likely want to become fast friends. Though plenty of breeds can be friendly with cats, Goldens take to it much quicker than most.

3. There are three types of Goldens

There are actually three distinct types of Golden Retrievers: American, Canadian and British. British Goldens are found mostly in Europe and Australia. They typically have a broader skull and a light colored coat.

The American variety are less muscular and thinner, but taller than their British cousins. They also will have a darker colored coat than the other types.

Canadian Goldens are similar to American Retrievers as they are thin and have a dark coat. They are the tallest variety of Golden.

4. Golden Retrievers are fast runners

If you’ve ever played fetch with a Golden, this probably comes as no surprise to you. But did you know just how fast they are? Goldens have been known to reach speeds up to 30mph (or 48km/h).

Take a look at this video of an 11-month old Golden that reaches over 25 miles per hour while running on snow. And of course, the beautiful boy has a huge smile on his face the whole time!

5. They get lonely if left by themselves

Another way that Goldens stand out from other breeds is their ability to experience sadness much like we do. Trainers advise not to leave them alone for long periods as they can become depressed.

If they are left alone for more than 7 hours they will start to experience sadness. Try getting a dog walker, or another pet if your Golden has to be left alone for long periods of time on a regular basis.

If neither of those will work for your family, check out our article on separation anxiety which has some great ideas on how to keep your Golden occupied and happy while you’re away.

P.S. Did you learn something new? Share with a Golden-loving friend by pinning! Thanks!

By Will Douglas Leave a Comment

10 Amazingly Interesting Golden Retriever Facts You Should Know

Golden retrievers are one of the most famous dog breeds in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. But apart from their cute looks, here are 10 golden retriever facts that will only make you love them more.

Maybe you’re looking to adopt a golden of your own, a proud parent of one (or more!), a golden retriever aficionado, or just a dog lover in general, either way it’s always fun to learn new things about different dog breeds. So chillax and join me as we learn more about golden retrievers within the next few paragraphs.

1. Golden Retrievers Are a Noble Breed

And I don’t just mean because of the air of regality that they exude. The breed came into existence in the 19th century mainly due to the efforts of Lord Tweedmouth. They were first bred in Scotland from flat coated retriever and water spaniel (a now extinct breed) ancestors.

2. They Had A Myth Attached To Their Origins

Despite their noble origins, there was actually a myth that the first golden was accidentally born from Russian sheepdogs… from a circus. Obviously this was disproved eventually but it still ran for a while. Talk about some strange origins, right?

3. Golden Retrievers are Natural Swimmers

By instinct, golden retrievers are large water lovers. In fact, their outer coats are water repellent. This proved beneficial for hunting in environments where there were wetlands and rivers in addition to forests. Even to this day, goldens take like a fish to water.

4. They are. . .Retrievers!

Okay, so the name fits them because of several reasons. First, because they could retrieve hunted wildfowl on both land and water. Second, because their sense of smell is so exceptional that they’re extremely useful to have around on a hunt (or a search and rescue); and third, because they can retrieve the shot game without damage.

5. There Are Three Types of Goldens

Yup, as if one type wasn’t enough to overwhelm us with awesomeness. There are British, American, and Canadian types. Most of the differences lie on the physical attributes, but there is some variation in temperament as well.

6. Two American Presidents Had Golden Retrievers

Both President Ford and President Regan had golden retrievers as pets. President Gerald Ford’s was named Liberty (full name Honor’s Foxfire Liberty Hume), who even had a litter of puppies while she was at the White House.

7. They’re Not Choosy About The Company They Keep

Golden retrievers don’t discriminate when it comes to who they hang out with. Notable examples include one fostering a litter of wild dog puppies, as well as another who chills with akangaroo (strangely enough both are named Lilly).

8. Goldens are Internationally Popular Dogs

And not just in America, where they are the third most popular breed by registration. They rank fifth in Australia (probably because they can chill with kangaroos, am I right), and eighth in the United Kingdom. Not shabby at all, huh?

9. They are Guinness World Record Holders

There are at least two golden retrievers in the world who are known Guinness World Record holders. The first one is for the loudest bark (beating even a chainsaw at 113.1 decibels), and the other is for the most number of tennis balls held in a dog’s mouth (five).

10. Golden Retrievers are Easy To Train

Talk about being real charmers. This breed is known for being obedient and easily trainable. In fact, the first three title holders for AKC’s obedience trials were all golden retrievers. Not only that, this trainability is exhibited by the fact that a lot of dog-centric films star goldens (I mean, have you seen the Air Bud films?)

Conclusion

So there you have it, 10 golden retriever facts. I hope you had just as much fun reading them as I did finding out about them, because just when I thought I couldn’t like golden retrievers more I find out these facts about them. Let’s just say that this breed has gone up a notch or two (or ten!) on the cool meter.

Do you have any more golden retriever facts to share? Let us know about it on the comments below!

By Will Douglas Leave a Comment

4 Tips To Keep Your Dog’s Smile Bright

If you’re like us, keeping your dog healthy is one of your main concerns. From feeding them the proper quality food, taking them for routine checkups, to exercise and grooming, you pride yourself on being a responsible pet owner. However, if your pup’s dental health is sometimes overlooked, there can be both short and long-term consequences. The American Veterinary Dental College states that many dogs show signs of dental issues and periodontal disease by three years old.

We’re excited to share some easy ways that you can help keep your dog’s smile healthy and bright!

#4. Brush those canines

There are many products on the market that can help you care for your dog’s teeth right at home. It is important to keep up on these techniques in between veterinary visits. One method is a finger toothbrush, which is a small plastic device you place on your finger and can use to gently clean your dog’s teeth. It may take some getting used to (for both you and your pup) but can easily become part of your grooming routine once they do. In between brushings, there are dental sprays on the market that you can use as well. Lillian Ruff offers one that is made in the USA, is 100% cruelty-free, gluten free, paraben free, sulfate free and vegan.

#3. Dental cleaning at the vet

Have you ever noticed how each time you bring your dog to the vet one of the first things they do is check their teeth? If your vet suggests cleaning or any extractions, take their recommendation into strong consideration. While they can be pricey, it is important to get ahead of any issues. Dental disease not only affects the teeth and mouth but also internal organs.

A dental cleaning at the vet is much like your appointment at the dentist. The vet will take close inspections of the teeth and gums, take any necessary x-rays, clean all around, and finally dry and polish them. General anesthesia is necessary to do a dog’s dental cleaning. Many vets also may require blood work to mitigate any risks associated with the anesthesia.

#2. Let them gnaw

Treating your pup to a nice long chew on their favorite bully stick can help scrape away plaque and dirt that naturally accumulates. Bones, not your thing? There are plenty of chew toys made specifically for this reason, just make sure you choose one that’s safe for your pup. Dry food and crunchy treats are another effortless way to keep build-up down.

#1. Notice odors or discoloration?

If you notice any changes in the appearance of your pet’s teeth or any unsettling odors, don’t put off contacting your vet for a checkup to make sure there are no issues like abscesses or infections.

As always, if you have any questions regarding the right type of dental care for your dog, ask your veterinarian during your next visit.

By Will Douglas Leave a Comment

6 Common Signs your Dog is in Pain

The common signs your dog is in pain can be easier to notice once you know what you are looking for. It’s never easy seeing your furbaby in pain.

Since Harley having her surgery on her leg, I’ve learnt the signs when Harley is in pain, stress or discomfort. We have been through each one of these signs together, and I hope she never has to again.

All I can say is thank goodness for pet insurance. For me personally, it has been great with almost 80% coverage. If you’re after more information,

It’s easy for humans to complain or babies to scream. But what about our furbaby’s? What are they trying to tell us?

Unfortunately, they can’t speak to us, that would be amazing. But there are a few common signs your dog is in pain that tell you something isn’t right.

Apart from a change in their personality which only you as the owner would pick up on, here are some common signs your dog is in pain.

Just to state the obvious here, if you can clearly see your dog is in pain or distress seek medical attention immediately.

6 Common Signs your Dog is in Pain

Excessive Grooming

Has your dog ever been bitten by a bull ant? Do you notice that they lick and lick that specific area? Yup, it means that it hurt. Excessive grooming often happens to help soothe that particular spot. It’s natural instinct to ‘clean’ the wound or area.

If you put your hand over the area that your dog is excessively grooming they will start licking your hand.

For example; When Harley gets bitten on her paw by an ant, she will immediately start licking her paw. I will put her paw into some ice water to help take the sting away. Harley will lick my hand constantly until the sting has gone.

Harley knows what to do know, I will get the ice water ready and she will put her paw in the water and stand there until the sting/pain has gone away.

Personality Changes

A dog’s personality can change when they are in pain, from avoidance to aggression. Dog’s will sometimes avoid contact as they think you will hurt them further or try to move them which will cause pain. Aggression can happen if they don’t have anywhere to hide or if the injury is visible.

The Dog Bundle Pack is handy to have as it has a pet record keeper which contains a contacts page.

Excessive Panting

Panting often happens on a hot day or after they have been running around. It’s their way of regulating body temperature. Excessive panting is often associated with stress. Ever notice your dog panting when sitting at the vet? It’s their way of trying to alleviate the stress.

Restless

Can’t seem to relax? Always moving around from one spot to another? Restlessness can be a sign of pain, whether it be an internal or external injury.

Inappetence

The of the most common signs your dog is in pain is inappetence, not eating or drinking. Having a lack of appetite can mean many things, upset stomach from eating something they shouldn’t to other internal injuries.

Eating Grass

Also, a common sign your dog is in pain is when they start eating grass. This often happens when they need to vomit. Having an upset stomach or digestive issues, dogs have a natural instinct to eat grass as the grass will help them vomit and or poop.

It’s never easy seeing our furbaby’s in pain. If you are worried at all, it’s always a good idea to get them checked out by your vet.

Better to be safe than sorry

Over to you: Are there any other signs you would like to add to help out fellow readers? Please add them below in the comments below.

Hugs,

Pin it…

By Will Douglas Leave a Comment

Pros and Cons of Allowing Your Dog to Sleep in Your Bed

About 62 percent of American dog and cat owners keep their animals in the house at night, and of those, about half the cats and one-third of the dogs spend the night on the bed according to the findings of a survey from the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.

Passionate pooch owners are divided on this issue, and feelings run deep. There are those who swear by their pets and would not have them sleep anywhere other than on their beds, and there are those who just swear at the thought of having their beloved Lassie sharing the bed with them.

Who is right? What are the issues?

Pros

There is scientific evidence to suggest that sharing your life with a pet will increase your years. And what better way to bond with your pet than sharing a cuddle at night?

There is also evidence to suggest that brains subconsciously interact, even in sleep, and the peaceful waves emitted by your loved pet can positively influence your brain

Cons and Complications

Health and Safety Risks

Disease, dirt, and fleas can be picked up by your cute little puppy and brought into your bed.

There’s also a danger factor, especially if you have young children. Even the most good-natured dog can snap in self-defense when startled. A child running past furniture or beds where a dog is resting may unwittingly surprise the animal.

The tragic result of an elevated dog’s teeth coming into contact with a small child’s face can be physically traumatic for the child but may cost a startled dog its life.

Loss of Quality of Sleep

Disturbed sleep and restless nights are another bonus that studies show to be gained from sharing your bed with a pet.

It’s not just dogs, either. Behaviorist at the Veterinary Specialty Center in Lynnwood, Dr. Lynne Seibert, says that the most common problem with sleeping with cats is that they don’t sleep.

“Most of the issues I see are about exuberant play,” she says. “They’ve got a captive audience and end up pouncing and scratching.” As is to be expected from an animal that spends all day sleeping!

Family Strife and Jealousy

Jealousy, aggressive behavior, and family divisions have also been attributed to pet sleeping arrangements.

There are many stories of marriages placed in jeopardy because the family pet has assumed the role as leader of the pack and dominates the bedroom as well.

How can you prevent this from happening in your bedroom?

Cesar Milan on the Pack Relationship

Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, says, “You may prefer to have your dog sleep in bed with you. It is perfectly natural for a dog to sleep with other pack members, and it is also a powerful way to bond with your dog. But don’t forget the rules, boundaries, and limitations; it’s your bed—not your dog’s.”

You must have your “pack” relationship properly established before considering allowing your dog to sleep with you. This means educating your pet that sleeping with you is a privilege, not a right, and that when you say “off,” they must vacate the bed (a married couple needs some privacy after all!).

What an Expert Says

Carol Byrnes gives her opinion on this issue in the following article.

Should You Sleep With Your Dog?

There is much written by experts that suggests that allowing your dog in your bed sends mixed messages, that it lowers your pack status, that a dog who shares a bed considers himself an equal on the pack pole.

On the other hand, plenty of non-experts report that their dogs slept with them for years without a hitch.

Here’s my opinion: It depends on the dog and the human.

If you have a healthy working relationship with your dog based on mutual trust and respect and you don’t mind waking up with a dog’s tail in your face or paws braced against your back, by all means, sleep with your well-adjusted dog – under the covers if you want!

It’s not the well-adjusted, respectful dogs who should be banished, but the ones who don’t see the humans in their lives as leaders, dogs who would dare talk back or bite you, in (or out of) the bed, who don’t belong there. I think it’s a shame that great dogs who don’t need to be banished are punished for the ones who can’t handle it.

The bed doesn’t cause the problem, but it can certainly magnify a problem that is already there.

If you are having difficulties with your relationship with your dog, if he is bossy, bratty and disrespectful, then he should not be in your bed at night.

The dog who steals sandwiches from your child’s hand and knocks him over in doorways shouldn’t share your child’s pillow, even if he would be fine sharing yours.

Puppies should learn how to sleep alone so they don’t grow up clingy and co-dependent or develop the mistaken impression that the bed is a right, not a privilege.

Dog behavior specialists like Dr. Ian Dunbar, Ph.D., and British behaviorist John Rogerson quote horrifying statistics that the most severe bites to dog owners occur in the owner’s bed.

Dogs who would take advantage of their owners when standing upright will certainly take more advantage when their owners are prone.

A bossy dog who thinks it’s HIS bed and he’s sharing his space with you, might also think he has the right to correct you for bumping his highness in the bed, with dire consequences.

If your dog thinks he runs your house, get professional help for that issue. It’s not “The Bed” that is the real problem—it’s just a symptom of a more serious issue: an unhealthy relationship.

Velcro-dogs may not be good candidates for bed sharing.

If your dog is clingy and co-dependent, or if he suffers from separation anxiety, he should not be in your bed. A dog who suffers great stress when you are away needs to practice feeling secure when not in your direct presence.

If he is your ever-present shadow, whining because you are on the other side of a shower door, he needs to learn to be ok with separation. Sleeping plastered against you all night only feeds this co-dependence. Nighttime is a great time for him to practice feeling secure with you out of reach.

Some Good Guidelines

• Evaluate your relationship. Are you a good leader? Is your dog emotionally secure?

• Your dog should wait for permission and sleep where you tell him to.

• If you have to be careful to avoid disturbing his highness in bed for fear of eliciting a growl or a bite, boot him out of the whole room, not just the bed, and get help from a behavior professional.