As a dog lover, if you are looking for a four-legged companion who is more than a pet and can transform into a lifetime companion, then you should consider the European Golden Retriever. Its appearance, sporting a pale, creamy coat with soulful eyes, is appealing enough. However, they aren’t just there to showcase their good looks. They have a gentle and calm nature that blends well in any family. Undoubtedly, it can redefine the meaning of joy in your life. Let us delve deeper and find out what the previous and existing owners of the European golden retriever have to say about it.
The first impression creates the magic
Maybe the name Golden Retriever makes you think of the American version. But the European Golden Retriever, also called the English Cream Retriever, looks a class apart. The European version is shorter than its American cousin and is more robust. Furthermore, it is covered in a plush cream colored coat, hence the name justifies it perfectly. Your feet are destined to stop when you spot a breed of European origin passing.
A typical day with a European Golden Retriever
It starts very quietly. After waking up, you should see them near your feet and ready to follow you from one room to the other. They would never bark or show any dissent, all the while. Of course, the tail will keep wagging and those curious eyes trying to solve the mysteries that lie ahead in the day.
However, it would be wrong if you took their calmness for granted and presumed them to be lazy. They love going out for morning walks, enjoy performing drills, and all sorts of outdoor activities. They are never demanding, and the onus is on you to make them happy.
Regardless of your daily routine, the European Golden Retriever will adjust to it appropriately. You are saved in one aspect, i.e., these dogs do not require periodic maintenance. English Cream Retrievers are easy to groom.
Although they do shed moderately all around the year, and more heavily during seasonal changes. Yet, brushing 2-3 times a week should be enough to reduce shedding. It would be sufficient if you bathe them once at an interval of 6-8 weeks. Ensure to clean their ears as they are vulnerable to infections.
Taking care of their emotional side
It is the emotional aspect of the breed you need to take care of precisely. They are emotionally attached to their owners or other members of the family. If you ask existing owners, they will agree, these dogs seem to know when something is not right in the family. When a family member gets sick, they will sit close without uttering any sound, as if it is an assurance, “I am there for you”.
They love to socialize
Without any doubt whatsoever, European Golden Retrievers are social animals. However, do not consider them to overdo it. For example, they will never climb on the lap of a guest or try to seek attention when outside. They are quiet and calm and try to emphasize their feelings soberly. Undoubtedly, this factor makes them the best fit for households having children, older adults, and other pets. You can count on the European Golden Retrievers as they will always be respectful, patient, and gentle with everyone in the house.
Feeding and diet tips
European Golden Retrievers require a healthy diet. You can choose the best-quality food for them that has ample amounts of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. Nutrition is mandatory to support their fluffy coats. You must also keep a watch on their weight, as if you overfeed them, they can gain weight abruptly. This emphasizes the significance of daily exercise. Consult or be in touch with an experienced vet to know more about their feeding and fitness roles.
Health and Lifespan
The European Golden Retriever is known to be one of the healthiest dogs, particularly if they are bred responsibly. Reports suggested, these breeds are among the few that are diagnosed with cancer compared to their American counterparts. Still, you must be careful with the following health issues:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Heart conditions.
- Eye diseases (Progressive retinal atrophy).
- Skin allergies.
- Cancer (Rare as reported by sources).
Here again lies the significance of responsible breeders, as they will regularly scan the pups for genetic diseases. Before getting a pup, make sure to ask for health certifications of the parent dogs. European Golden Retrievers can live 10-12 years or even more if they are well looked after.
Tips to find the right pup
Dog lovers all over the world are now becoming familiar with the above-mentioned qualities of the English Cream Retrievers, and so the demand for the breed is surging. However, not all breeders operate ethically, and here is where you must be careful. While considering a healthy pup, remember the following points:
Identify breeders who perform regular health checkups.
Avoid the breeders who solely concentrate on “rare color” and mark pups specially based on the coat.
Do visit the kennel personally to familiarize yourself with the pup’s parents.
Consider reading or viewing references and reviews from trusted sources.
Ethical breeders safeguard the future of the breed and also guarantee that you take home a healthy and well-maintained pup.
Last words
The European Golden Retriever can turn out to be your loyal companion and fill your life with unbounded happiness. With its grace, intelligence, and affectionate nature, you will never spend a boring day in your life again. It hardly matters whether you are a first-time dog owner or want to add on to your already envious list of pets; this breed will fit in conveniently into every lifestyle.
As a responsible dog owner, you should remember, the European Golden Retriever is not only famous for its pretty looks, but their soulful eyes, along with a caring heart, seek unconditional love from their owners. No wonder, when they receive your love and affection, they will return the favor in every way possible.
