Loyal, intelligent, gentle, friendly, even tempered, affectionate. It’s no wonder Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds Australia chooses to invite into their homes.
While they’re known for their friendly yet gentle temperament, they’re also considered one of the most intelligent and loyal dog breeds in the world. And with one of the most luscious coats of all the canines, they’re great for a cuddle too!
The one question most commonly asked about these remarkable creatures, however; Do golden retrievers shed?
So, do Golden Retrievers shed?
In short – yes, Golden Retrievers shed. And, they shed a lot. If you’re thinking about welcoming one into your home, be prepared for their thick, golden fur to become a regular part of your life.
But wait. Let’s rewind a little and highlight some of the unique characteristics of a Golden Retriever dog breed (including their fur coat).
The unique abilities of Golden Retrievers
While all pets are extraordinary companions, each with their own unique set of abilities, Golden Retrievers continuously impress us with their talents. They’re often employed as therapy dogs – employing their gentle and empathetic nature to help calm and soothe people – and also as service dogs, thanks to their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities.
They’re said to be one of the smartest dog breeds also. Their high IQ combined with good memory makes them incredibly easy to train and follow complex commands.
This is also where their thick coat of fur comes in too.
Golden Retrievers have a unique water-resistant coat, a feature that allows them to excel in water-based activities. Originally from Scotland and used as hunting dogs, their double-layered coat is designed to protect them from various weather conditions.
However, while their coat is built for all-terrain, it also means that shedding is a year-round process, with certain times of the year being more intense than others.
Maintaining such a unique fur coat requires the right nutrients. A diet that supports a healthy skin barrier function ensures that their fur remains strong, shiny, and capable of withstanding the rigours of their adventurous lifestyle.
Why do Golden Retrievers shed so much?
Golden Retrievers shed more during two key periods: spring and autumn. During these seasons, they go through what’s called “blowing coat,” where they shed their undercoat to prepare for temperature changes. In the spring, they lose their heavier winter coat to stay cool in the warmer months. In autumn, they shed their lighter summer coat to make room for their thick winter fur.
However, shedding isn’t limited to these times. Due to their double coat, Golden Retrievers shed consistently throughout the year. Factors like stress, diet, or even medical issues can affect how much they shed, so it’s important to monitor their health closely.
How to manage Golden Retriever shedding
While shedding is inevitable, it can be managed with regular grooming. Brushing your Golden Retriever several times a week helps to remove loose hair before it lands on your floors and furniture. Bathing them every few months can also reduce excess shedding, and feeding them a high-quality diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can keep their coat healthy.
Different breeds require different nutrition.
Just as every breed has unique abilities, their diet is unique also. Furthermore, each life stage can have an impact on their nutritional requirements. Royal Canin provides tailored nutritional solutions for your dog at every stage of their life, from puppyhood through to their senior years.
Golden Retrievers benefit from a formulation that helps support the health and beauty of the skin and coat. Royal Canin’s Breed Health Nutrition® range features high-quality protein sources, unique nutrients, and is designed with specific shape, size and texture for each dog’s facial and jaw structures and biting patterns.
ROYAL CANIN® Golden Retriever puppy is suitable for Golden Retriever puppies up to 15 months old, and helps support the skin’s “barrier” role (exclusive complex) and maintain skin and coat health (EPA and DHA). These nutrients all help to support a healthy skin barrier function which in turn contributes to the healthy appearance of your dog’s coat.
Just like the puppy diet, the ROYAL CANIN® Golden Retriever Adult diet is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of your dog. This diet contains omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, DHA, and borage oil, to help support your dog’s skin condition.
ROYAL CANIN® is recommended by Vets & Breeders
Chosen with precision, the high-quality raw materials found in Royal Canin dog food are the foundation of our science-led formulas, selected to help your pet feel their vibrant best.
“I am confident recommending Royal Canin diets because the diets do what I need them to do, they are palatable and I trust the science behind them” – Dr Helen Orbell, Director and Dermatologist, Referral Animal Skin Hospital
As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to tune into the unique needs of our pets. Dogs, unlike humans, can’t vocalise their discomfort or explain their dietary needs. That’s why Royal Canin caters to the unique sensitivities of your pet’s breed with 55 years of scientifically tailored nutrition.
So if you’re asking ‘do Golden Retrievers shed?’ and debating how you might manage this characteristic of these beautiful furry best friends, grooming and a breed-specific diet might be the answer.
Next time you marvel at your dog’s intelligence, remember that their incredible skills deserve the best support. Specialised nutrition not only sustains their unique abilities but helps them thrive, ensuring your pet can continue to impress you for years to come!
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