Golden Retrievers are a fun, energetic, and excitable breed. However, you should understand the qualities of a Golden Retriever before you own one.
Since Golden Retrievers were bred for sport, they thrive on a consistent exercise routine and a healthy diet made up of the best food.
Golden Retrievers usually need between 20 and 30 minutes of exercise twice a day. Whether your dog exercises in your yard or a dog park, it is essential to allow your them enough time to release their pent-up energy. This will help your golden retriever calm down during the day.
Golden Retrievers are one of the most faithful breeds of dogs and make excellent companions. You will notice your Golden especially loves it when you play or exercise with them. However, they will still be by your side when you are relaxing.
How Much Exercise Does a Golden Retriever Need?
The amount of exercise your Golden Retriever needs depends on their weight, age, and current well-being. Golden Retrievers need more exercise than most other dog breeds to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Until your Golden Retriever puppy is three months old, it is essential to be careful of overexercising your pup.
Golden Retriever puppies have bones and joints that are still growing, so it isn’t safe to allow them as much exercise as an adult Golden Retriever. A Golden Retriever puppy does not need more than five minutes of exercise for each month of its life.
For example, a two-month-old puppy should not exercise more than 10 minutes daily. Adult Golden Retrievers, however, will enjoy exercising for about an hour a day. You might notice your dog’s endurance slowing down by the time it is between 7 to 10 years old due to aging. It is crucial not to over exercise senior Golden Retrievers to ensure their joints don’t begin to hurt.
Here are some types of exercises your Golden Retriever will enjoy:
Walking or Running
Before incorporating running into your Golden Retriever’s exercise routine, be sure he knows how to walk on a loose leash first. Walking your Golden at a natural pace is an excellent way to start. You can increase your speed over time.
Avoid walking or running with your Golden Retriever on an extremely cold or hot day, as it will make them uncomfortable. When running with your Golden Retriever, run on a soft running path or grass, as hard surfaces can damage your pup’s joints.
Playing
Playing is a great way to exercise your Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch, playing with a tug toy, and even hide and seek. Playing with your Golden is also an excellent way to spend time with them and enjoy their company.
Swimming
Golden Retrievers love swimming. If you have a swimming pool, teach your Golden Retriever to swim. Begin training him in shallow water; you can eventually go deeper. It is essential not to leave your Golden alone in the water.
Final Thoughts
Like humans, Golden Retrievers need exercise and mental stimulation to live a happy and healthy life. Regular exercise can help cut down on bad behaviors likes aggression or whining. Before incorporating daily exercise into your Golden’s life, be sure that the form of exercise you choose is appropriate for your pup.
