Tuesday, April 29, 2008

7 Tips on How to Have a Healthy Connection with Your Golden Retriever by Jenny Stinson

Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in America. And, it is no wonder. They are friendly, reliable, and loyal pets. Goldens are often therapy dogs, service dogs for the physically, visually, and hearing impaired, and even Search and Rescue dogs.
And, though known for their "pleasing" personalities, goldens are still dogs - not people with fur.
You can enjoy an even greater connection with your golden when you follow these 7 suggestions:

Establish yourself as the pack leader. Dogs are pack animals. Even as a part of a human family, dogs operate according to the rules of the pack. The leader is always the most respected member of the pack.

Recognize the various stages of your dog's life. Specific behaviors are associated with the age of your dog. Golden retrievers are generally considered "adults" around age three. However, they go many stages on their way to adulthood, and understanding the behavior associated with those stages is critical to having a healthy connection with your dog.

Choose the best diet for your golden. Dog food is not one-size-fits-all. Dog breeds have different needs according to their type of coat, their level of activity, their size, and more. Goldens tend to overindulge, so it is best to feed your golden on a regular schedule rather than self-feeding.

Groom your golden regularly. Though brushing your golden keeps him beautiful, regular grooming can also prevent health problems. Grooming is not just bathing and brushing - it is also keeping his nails, teeth, eyes, and ears healthy.

Teach your dog to behave. A well-behaved dog is a happy dog, and it makes for a happier family life also. Dogs like structure and routine. You should establish household rules and stick to them. Your dog will be much more relaxed and well-behaved, and he will show more respect to you, the pack leader.

Provide adequate exercise. Goldens are athletic, often energetic dogs, and they require lots of exercise, not only to keep them at a healthy weight, but also to help them relieve stress and clear their minds.

Play with your dog. Playing with your dog can also be a great stress reliever for both you and your golden. And, it can help to forge the bond between you and your golden.
And now I invite you to learn more about building a healthy connection with your Golden

Retriever by visiting http://www.GoldenRetrieverpro.com to get more information in all areas of caring for your Golden.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Stinson http://EzineArticles.com/?7-Tips-on-How-to-Have-a-Healthy-Connection-with-Your-Golden-Retriever&id=1127362

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