ABOUT

Goldens LOVE digging up the garden - as puppies they love to explore the world and one way is with their paws. Training a Golden is essential and with patience you can teach them to leave plants and areas alone. You may also want to try sprinkling some lemon grass essential oil in areas that you want them to avoid, they do not like the smell, planting some herbs in between plants also helps as the strong smells also repels them: try rosemary, thyme or other strong smelling herbs.

Goldens eating valuables or clothing - a simple way of avoiding losing your socks or items of clothing to a Golden is to make sure that they are out of reach, it is a good way to teach the human members of the family good housekeeping :)

Goldens Shed: Although you may be diligent - and should be - in grooming your dogs, they will shed large amounts of hair. When you live with a Golden you have to live with the hair on everything from furniture to clothes.

Yes they are the most amazing family dog but will they fit in to what your family want from a pet?

You should consider whether you have the energy and time to invest in the attention and time a Golden requires. In fact no matter what breed you plan on bringing into your family please do read some more about the breed and their behavior and needs before adopting.

If you want to sit on the couch and have a laid back companion at your feet, do not get a golden! They need attention and work otherwise they will get bored and take out their frustration and boredom on your garden, furniture or clothing.

Choosing the best dog breed for you - article on Ark Animal Centre

You may have your heart set on getting a puppy but do not discount the advantages of getting an older companion.

Older dogs will already be house trained and will be easier to settle into a routine. Older dogs will also not be as prone to chewing and or digging.

Although some older dogs may need a bit more health care it should not be a reason not to offer them a second chance, we all get old right?

Commitment

Some vets and or vet clinics who help animals in need.

Always find a vet that not only you trust but your dog does too.

We would like to thank the Orange Grove Vet - Erasmia Vet Clinic - Oaklands Vet Clinic as well as the Fourways Vet Hospital for going the extra mile to help a Golden in need.

What you should know and consider before adoption

Goldens are people orientated dogs and need to be able to have contact with their family at all times. If you are not willing to have your animals live in your house as part of your family then DO NOT get a Golden. Be prepared to ensure that your Golden has a safe (adequately fenced and secure) area. Make sure that you Micro chip your Golden so that in the event that you need to find your dog it is made easier with a micro chip.

Do not get two puppies from the same litter, they will bond with each other and not with you - you will also have double trouble with chewing and digging!

What you should know and consider before adoption

Goldens are loyal - loving playful and unbelievable companions to have as part of your life