I am about to get a new puppy and have always wanted a golden retriever but I don't know if that is the most practical now. I am practically house bound and while I have a big backyard I don't have the agility to play in it. Would it be cruel to get a dog that energetic under those circumstances? Do labs or golden ret. differ in any significant way? Thanks
2007-03-22 02:45:33 · 6 answers · asked by whynot 1 in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
I have had quite a few dogs over the years and yearned for a Red Setter.
Eventually I got one and he was fantastic, I called him Skipper.At the time everybody said to me "You're crazy for wanting a setter" because they demand so much exercise and time and they never grow up. But he grew up to be an absolute star. Twelve months later my husband got a white retriever. When the kids saw her one of them said She's a snuggle and the name stuck so we called her Snugs. She was the perfect companion for Skipper and us and brought us so much happiness. This was a long time ago and they are now together in doggy Heaven.
What I am trying to say is, if this is where your heart is you go for it because you only live once, and I'm sure that you will be able to get round any problems you may foresee with some of the answers above.
I now have four Cocker Spaniels, and one of them ( Luna ) has just given birth to nine healthy puppies. Here are some pictures of them http://www.flickr.com/photos/annspain
Aren't they just gorgeous.
Good luck with whatever you decide
and best wishes Anna
2007-03-22 19:55:53 · answer #1 · answered by ann.inspain 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think labs are much more active. As adults they are a great companion but are a bit more work then other breeds while still a puppy and they are big time chewers,and they will chew on everything they can get to. Golden's are a wonderful companion also and can be a handful as a pup so I guess what I'm trying to say is that I would choose the Golden even though both are good dogs to own.
2007-03-22 02:54:30 · answer #2 · answered by upallniteowl 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I had both a Goldie and a Lab. The biggest difference between them was the upkeep. The Goldie had long fur that had to be brushed, conditioned and trimmed regularly. The Lab had to be brushed and bathed - but not as often or as much as the Goldie. That is probably the biggest difference.
Both have very loving, people pleasing personalities and are very loyal dogs. Both are high-energy (Labs are well known for their "eternal" puppy-hood). My Goldie was fairly laid back and wasn't as energetic as some Goldies I've been around.
As far as play time - even if you sit on the porch and throw a ball that is great exercise for your pooch. These dogs are retrievers - there is nothing they like better than a game of fetch! Find a neighborhood kid or make some phone calls to dog walking agencies to find someone who would be willing to come and walk your dog for you if you're not up to it.
If your condition is liable to change waiting may be the best option, but if it is a permanent condition I see no reason why you shouldn't be able to get your Lab or Goldie and be able to care for him/her with a little help. Find a dog walker, talk to family, invite friends over to play with you and your dog. There are plenty of ways to ensure your pup gets the exercise he or she will need.
Good luck!
2007-03-22 03:00:41 · answer #3 · answered by tngapch 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know much about golden retrievers.
I do know that labs, if given the space (or not) and some toys, have the ability to amuse themselves for hours. They frequently remain playful well into old age.
If your yard is fenced and safe, you can let the lab out and he'll run and jump and have a grand time on his own.
2007-03-22 02:54:34 · answer #4 · answered by Patricia S 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They are both very active and require alot of exercise.
2007-03-22 02:52:17 · answer #5 · answered by KathyS 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
youc could teach them how to play fetch..
2007-03-22 02:53:14 · answer #6 · answered by itsmepaco 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋