Are you the proud parent of a Golden Retriever? Are you wondering how much exercise your Golden Retriever needs? If so, then you’ve come to the right place!
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In this article, we’ll take a quick look at the Golden Retriever dog breed, how much exercise these dogs need, and then we’ll provide a list of fun activities you and your fur bud can enjoy together! Let’s get started!
What is a Golden Retriever?
Did you know that Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dogs in the US? The reasons are many. For one thing, Goldens are friendly, tolerant, and highly intelligent. They make great working dogs, too. However, they do love to have fun!
Golden Retrievers were originally bred as hunting dogs. They were used to track game and then retrieve it. Today, these dogs still love to work. They’re often used by law enforcement used as therapy and service dogs.
What’s more, Golden Retrievers are easy to train and make great companions for just about any type of person and family. These dogs are also good with kids and protective of the family too. They’re also prized for being extremely loyal and loving companions.
This dog breed is also known for being silly much of their lives. One reason for this is that they tend to mature slower than other dog breeds. We’ve known of Goldens who resembled Peter Pan most of their lives (they were silly, fun, and goofy).
When it comes to exercise, Golden Retrievers have plenty of energy!
How Much Exercise Does a Golden Retriever Need?
Keep in mind that Golden Retrievers were bred to be hunting and sporting dogs. This means they have a ton of energy! They also have stamina and can take on just about any type of terrain. For these reasons, Goldens need at least an hour of exercise every day, though another hour would be better.
Be forewarned—Golden Retrievers who don’t get enough exercise can become destructive. Because they’re highly intelligent, these dogs will figure out some “fun” to keep their minds busy and wear off excess energy. This could involve chewing up your favorite sofa or pair of shoes, digging holes in the backyard or garden, and more. Dogs who don’t get enough exercise may also jump, pace and bark more often.
One more note—Goldens are also prone to becoming overweight or obese if they don’t get enough exercise. These dogs love to eat and will gain weight, which can lead to other health problems. So, exercise isn’t just about having fun; it’s also about keeping your dog healthy and happy.
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Ask a Vet Live NowFun Activities for Your Golden Retriever
OK—now we’re ready to take a look at some fun activities that you and your dog will love!
1). Walking/Jogging/Hiking
Your Golden Retriever will enjoy daily walks with you. Not only does this help your fur baby to wear off energy, but it’s also a great way to bond with your dog every day. Walking also stimulates his mind, with all the many things to see and sniff.
Your Golden has the stamina to out-walk you if he’s healthy. So, be ready! Be sure to walk your dog twice a day, for at least an hour each time.
Golden Retrievers also make great jogging companions! They’re able to run and keep running for quite a while. If you don’t jog, then consider going out for bike rides. Your canine companion can run alongside you as you ride the bike. This will help him wear off energy and stay in shape at the same time.
Goldens also make wonderful hiking companions. As noted earlier, they can take on just about any type of terrain. They have the stamina and long legs to manage it with ease. Just be sure to talk along with some provisions for your fur baby if the hike will be a long one. Your dog will need snacks, perhaps some dog food, and plenty of water to keep him hydrated.
2). Swimming
Golden Retrievers are natural swimmers, and most of them love the water! This is a high-intensity activity that works all the major muscle groups without putting stress and strain on joints and ligaments.
3). Puzzle Toys
Goldens love mental stimulation, which means your dog may really enjoy dog puzzle toys. When combined with their love of treats, these dogs thrive when it comes to going on a treasure hunt or playing with toys that make them work for their treats.
4). Fetch
We guarantee your Golden Retriever will love a great game of fetch! Remember, these dogs were bred to retrieve game. Instead of retrieving game, your dog may enjoy a great ball, a frisbee, or one of his favorite toys. Just throw the toy and tell him to fetch it. Remember to also teach your dog to “drop it” when he returns with the toy. Otherwise, your Golden Retriever will enjoy making you chase him for the toy!
5). Agility Training
Golden Retrievers also excel at agility training! This is another activity where the dog is able to wear off energy and receive the mental stimulation they need. Training your dog for running agility courses is also a great bonding activity.
You may be able to find agility courses and training in your area by doing a Google search. Otherwise, you can also choose to build an agility course in your own backyard! It’s possible to buy ready-made agility course elements, or make your own, to set up in the yard.
6). Dock Diving
This goes along with the Golden Retriever’s love of water and swimming! Dock diving is a great exercise! This is perfect for dogs who already know how to swim. If your dog doesn’t know how to swim, then don’t start this activity until he can swim on his own.
For this activity, all that’s needed is to throw your dog’s favorite toy off the dock and tell him to fetch it! That’s it! Your fur baby will gladly jump into the water and bring the toy back!
There you have it! These are all fun activities you and your Golden Retriever can enjoy together. Keeping your dog fit ensures you’ll have a happy, healthy dog!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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