5 Reasons Why Golden Retriever is Not the Right Dog for You

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Have you ever thought about getting a cute and fluffy Golden Retriever to accompany you at home? Many people have thought the same. After all, their cuteness, intelligence, and funny quirks have made many fall in love with them, even long before the social media era. But are they the right breed for you?

Many say that Golden Retrievers are a perfect dog for first-time owners. They are friendly, smart, and easy to train. They are also beautiful, loyal, and can get along well with kids and other pets. However, it doesn’t mean that Golden Retrievers are the perfect dog breed for you. There are still many other things to consider before deciding if they are the right pet for you and your family.

So if you are thinking of getting a Goldie as your dog, here are some reasons why they might not be the right dog for you:

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1. They Are Big Dogs

If you live in a small apartment or a small house, Golden Retrievers may not be the best dog for you. According to the AKC, they can weigh between 55–75 pounds. Big dogs like them need a lot of room to live. And not to mention, Goldies are very active. They need plenty of space to play and run, even inside your home, so you should keep that in mind.

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2. They Are Expensive

Golden Retrievers are quite expensive. According to The Dog People website, if you buy a Goldie puppy from a breeder, the average cost is around $2,000. Adopting one from a shelter is much cheaper, but remember that Golden Retrievers are big dogs. This affects their upkeep cost. They eat more food and treats and need bigger toys, crates, beds, and medications. And we haven’t even talked about grooming costs yet. So, if you are on a tight budget, Golden Retrievers may not be the best choice for you.

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3. You Are a Couch Potato

If you are a couch potato who doesn’t like going out or staying active, it’s better to forget about getting a Golden Retriever. Goldies are very energetic and need a lot of exercise. According to My Golden Retriever Puppies, adult Goldies need about 20–30 minutes of exercise twice a day. And they need more than just a simple walk — they also need mental training, such as brain games. Daily exercise not only keeps your dog happy and healthy but also helps you bond with them.

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4. They Shed a Lot

Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful, long, and fluffy coats. They look great on Instagram, but do you know that they can be a nightmare for owners? Golden Retrievers shed a lot. The AKC says that they shed moderately throughout the year and heavily once or twice a year. Many people advise brushing their coats at least 2–3 times a week to remove dead hair and keep them clean and beautiful. But even then, their fur will still cause you headaches. You’ll find it on your floor, couch, bed, and clothes. If you like keeping your house spotless, then Golden Retrievers might not be your type of dog.

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5. You Want a Guard Dog

If you choose a Golden Retriever and hope it will guard your house from intruders, good luck. If there’s one thing Goldies are famous for, it’s their friendliness. They are good with kids, other pets, and even strangers. If a stranger sneaks into your house, they might greet them with a wagging tail, asking for pets and playtime. While you can still train them as guard dogs from a young age, their friendly nature makes many people believe Goldies are not the best choice for that job.