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Golden Retrievers are medium to high energy dogs.  They are intelligent, affectionate and willing to please their owners.  The proper training is not normally difficult, but consistency is a factor.  When any dog is bored, they can become destructive.  Keep their minds busy!!  Play with them, walk them, run with them (always check first with your Vet!!), teach them tricks!  Socializing is important too.  Remember - dogs are pack animals.  Although not all dogs get along with other dogs (much like us humans), it is essential they socialize.   Professional training is always an option and there and many good books on the market regarding dog behavior.   

Puppies - crate trainng is an option and is often the most popular.  Trainers and Professionals will tell you 'dogs don't pee where they sleep'.  Crates are known to be good during the night and when you are out of the house.  You can then open the door and let them out to pee!  Remember - when you wake up in the morning the first thing you do is head for the bathroom.  Your dog needs to do the same!!  Check with the professionals regarding crate size.  If you are not a 'crate' person, plan on getting up often, day and night with your pet.  House-breaking can be frustrating, but with planning it can be accomplished with less frustration.

Keep in mind -  Hyper family surroundings may lead to a hyper dog.

Food - Always check the igredients on dog foods.  Many of the less expensive brands are grain driven.  I'm convinced this is because grain driven foods will fill them up faster.  Just picture dogs in the wild and what they would hunt. They probably wouldn't hunt for some of those ingredients on the bag would they?  But they do make good fillers.  Some ingredients are indeed not good for your dog.  Check with your Vet, Pet Store or your local Feed Store.  They can direct you to the better foods and read the labels!!  There is very good food on the market that is high in protein, low in grains, but quite pricey too, You should be able to find a nice compromise instead of lots of fillers.  I've noticed some foods puff up like rice when dropped in water.  Rule of thumb: look for a food that starts with a protein such as:  chicken, beef, lamb etc.  Check the next 3-5 ingredients for more protein and some healthier grains.  If you end up feeding your pet high grain foods with little to no exercise, you may end up with a lazy, over-weight pet!  Don't count out medical conditions either from lack of exercise and lousy food.

The Internet - is a very good place to start looking for food and tips on training.  'Many of the search engines can help you research dog behavior, foods and find a Trainer in your area.  Major dog food companies have websites and list their ingredients. Some also issue coupons to your email address!   You can also received helpful information joining a free dog forums.  If you have a computer, take advantage of free information!


The information above is from experience!  You can speak with Professionals to receive the best information for you and your pet.  Some of it is just logic!