January Pupdate! Scroll Down!

〰️

January Pupdate! Scroll Down! 〰️

Gather ‘round lil childrens… have I got a story for ya. A go back, a return, and a yard dog? But NOT TODAY DEVIL! According to my sister Wendy.

Golden Retrievers are like sunshine wrapped in fur—wonderful companions, but perhaps not everyone's cup of tea. I was all set to pen an article titled "Reasons You Might Reconsider Getting a Golden Retriever," brimming with sage advice and gentle warnings.

But life, as it often does, took a detour. Before I could finish my cautionary tale, my sister Wendy decided to double down on canine chaos by getting a second Golden Retriever! Either she's lost her marbles, or she's a genius ahead of her time.

**The Golden Mom**

I wonder which one is which. **Nala, Max and Molly** I know you’re in there somewhere.

You see, one energetic dog is akin to having a perpetual toddler underfoot. Wendy's logic? Add another whirlwind to the mix, and they'll exhaust each other. It's the parental equivalent of letting the kids entertain themselves—blissful, until you realize silence usually means someone's coloring the walls. Problem solved, right? Absolutely brilliant—or so she believes.

But here's the twist: our youngest sister, April, is the mastermind behind this plot. She informed Wendy about Molly, Max and Nala’s lil sister who'd been returned by her previous owners (for reasons I'll delve into later). It seems they discovered some quirks that made them reconsider—quirks that are now Wendy's delightful dilemma.

The story gets richer. Tyler, Wendy's son, my nephew, (auntie love’s ya Ty), spotted a dog tied up outside in the snow and the cold that was the spitting image of Max. Next thing you know, Wendy throws on her coat and dashes out into the cold without a second thought. "Oh no," I thought, "here we go." (You can’t tell folks how to raise their kids, oops pets.)

**Aww Naww-Hail Naw! Said the Cheerleader Sisters**

It’s called a **YARD DOG** in WV when a dog is tied to a spike and lives in a **doghouse** outside.
`Photo via Shutterstock.com`

Wendy calls April, ready to wage war about going to rescue Max and Nala’s baby sis . I forgot to tell ya in WV there are two kinds of law, there’s Justice and then there’s JUST US! There’s see something say something or see something DO something. Be the change or you can keep your darn change, ya know!? Then April reveals that Molly—the baby sister—was a go back, a return waiting to be rescued. So, it was Molly; and Wendy was like, NOT TODAY DEVIL!

So now, Wendy has two Goldens, endless energy in her house, and a story that belongs in the family hall of fame. As for me? I guess I’ll finish my blog post—right after I stop laughing. Stay tuned for the many reasons not to get a Golden Retriever… unless, of course, you’re Wendy. Or April! Or anyone else who clearly missed the memo! Also see Dog Days of Sisterhood! or Sit Stay Hump! Don’t Pet the Dog!

So, I will call this section: Some Things You Might Wanna Consider When Thinking about Getting a Golden Retriever…
Golden Retrievers are extremely active and require daily exercise and playtime. If you can't commit to their physical activity needs, they may become destructive or restless.

Heavy Shedding
Golden Retrievers shed a lot, year-round. If you’re not prepared to vacuum constantly and deal with fur on your clothes and furniture, this may be a challenge. (Wendy claims that she has spray for that. I don’t doubt it cuz she did work for the FDA and the NIH, so I’ll have to give y’all the scoop on that later.)
Need for Attention
They are highly social dogs and thrive on human interaction. If left alone for long periods, they can develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors.
Size
Golden Retrievers are large dogs, which can be a problem in small apartments or homes without sufficient space for them to move around comfortably.
Health Issues
They are prone to certain health problems like hip dysplasia, cancer, and heart issues, which can lead to significant vet bills and emotional stress.
Cost
Between food, grooming, vet visits, and other care expenses, Golden Retrievers can be costly to maintain.
Training Requirements
While they are intelligent and eager to please, they need consistent training and mental stimulation. Without proper training, their enthusiasm can turn into unruly behavior.
Chewing and Puppy Behavior
They love to chew, especially as puppies. If you’re not prepared to puppy-proof your home or train them early, they might destroy shoes, furniture, or other belongings.
Long Lifespan Commitment
Golden Retrievers can live 10–12 years or more. Make sure you’re ready for the long-term responsibility of caring for a large, active dog.
Not Ideal Guard Dogs
Golden Retrievers are friendly and welcoming, even to strangers. If you’re looking for a guard dog, they may not meet your expectations.
They Eat a Lot and Fast
Golden Retrievers: Food disappears faster than you can say 'sit. Retrievers don’t eat meals; they inhale them. Prepare accordingly

**A Go Back A Return AND A YARD DOG?**

But **NOT TODAY DEVIL!** According to my sister **Wendy.**

If these challenges seem manageable, a Golden Retriever could still be a wonderful addition to your family. Otherwise, it’s wise to consider a breed that better fits your lifestyle.