What is common between Golden Retriever puppys and popcorn when both are in the process of being made? Confused………..? Here’s the answer; they both do a lot of popping and hopping. If you have ever seen a healthy Golden pup you would know why I’m drawing this comparison. Goldens are an extremely energetic breed and they are always full of activity. If you don’t provide them with one, they will find an activity for themselves (this is more than often destructive though). And the same holds true for the little pups as well. They may be small in size but their energy levels are just what is apt for this breed. As soon as a puppy attains 6-7 weeks of age, it grows curious about its surroundings, it’s playful, ever energetic and active when not sleeping, and very responsive to human attention.
Behaviour of golden retriever puppys can predict what temperament it will have when it grows up to be an adult dog. So, it is important for anyone considering a Golden Retriever as their pet, to choose the pup wisely. If you go in straight for an adult dog, then of course this matter is out of the question. But buying a pup requires quite a bit of consideration. But before we look at the points to be kept in mind while choosing a Golden pup, here’s a word of caution – A Golden pup is not a miniature of a Golden Retriever; it’s a Golden Retriever in the making. It is small and cute, but it will grow up into a big dog; remember Goldens are BIG dogs. It is definitely not a breed for those who believe “the smaller the better”.
Let’s have a look at the process of ‘making’ a Golden pup your own:
Select a reputable and responsible breeder. A responsible breeder will have his litter only with the best (both health and behaviour wise) parents and thus the chances of having a pup with genetic disorders and temperamental abnormalities will automatically be minimized.
Insist on seeing both the parents of the litter that you are to choose from. Ensure that both are healthy and exhibit good behaviour. Do not consider the litter if you are not satisfied with the parents.
Visit the litter. You should find the pups popping and hopping. Laziness or dullness is just not Golden Retriever. There’s nothing like a ‘calm’ healthy Golden. The pup that interests you should be amply active and vigorous.
Never forget to take the breeder’s advice on which pup’s better for you. He knows your requirements and understands the pups better.
Observe the pup’s behaviour with its siblings. It should not be dominating. A tail pointed straight up is an indication of dominating nature.
Take the pup aside and observe its response to your interaction and love. A healthy pup would respond well and would be curious to explore and know.
Once satisfied with the behaviour, examine the pup carefully to look for signs of health or skin problems. A healthy pup’s body would be proportionate. Lean stature or bulging tummy is a sign of illness.
It should be fairly furry and the coat should be smooth and lustrous. Its eyes should be straight and alert; and nose should be moist and damp.
Examine all the credentials regarding perfect health and pure bred status of the pup and both its parents.
Remember, all pups require training. A slight miss and the popcorn will pop straight into your eye, transforming a delicious experience into a painful one. Shower your pup with all the love and care in the world but ensure that it is well trained, even if it means a few extra dollars by enrolling for an obedience class.
Nelson Williams offers more info at :
http://goldenretrievertrainingcenter.com/golden-retriever-puppys. He and his family live in Vermont. He brought home their first Golden Retriever when his now grown daughters were babies. His family has bred and cared for more Golden Retrievers than they can remember. With years of experience and volumes of research, the Williams offer for free, ‘Secrets of Raising Golden Retrievers’: http://www.goldenretrievertrainingcenter.com.
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