Happy Golden Checklist: Daily, Weekly, & Monthly Must-Dos for a Thriving Pup

Keep your Golden Retriever healthy, joyful, and tail-wagging with this actionable guide!

🐾 Daily Must-Dos

• 60+ Minutes of Exercise:
• Walks, fetch, swimming, or dog park zoomies.
• Pro Tip: Use a Ruffwear Float Coat for safe swims!
• Mental Stimulation:
• 15 mins of training (practice “leave it” or “find the toy”).
• Feed meals in a Kong Wobbler.
• Quality Meals:
• High-protein kibble + omega-3 supplements (ask your vet).
• Avoid: Grapes, chocolate, and onions.
• Affection Time:
• 10 mins of belly rubs or brushing (bonding + coat health!).

📅 Weekly Check-Ins

• Grooming:
• Brush 3x/week to prevent mats.
• Check ears for redness/odor (clean with Earthbath Ear Wipes).
• Socialization:
• 1–2 playdates or dog park visits.
• Introduce new sounds (vacuum, thunderstorms) gradually.
• Training Refresh:
• Reinforce “stay” and “come” with high-value treats (cheese, chicken).

🌙 Monthly Priorities

• Weight Check:
• Weigh at home or at the vet. Ideal BMI: 4–6 (visible waistline).
• New Adventures:
• Hike a new trail, visit a pet-friendly store, or try agility.
• Vet Touchbase:
• Schedule nail trims or dental checks if needed.

🎾 Bonus Tips for a Happy Golden

• Decode Their Joy:
• “Helicopter tail”: Wide, circular wag = pure happiness.
• Play bows: Invitation to fun!
• Diet Hacks:
• Add canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to meals for digestion.
• Freeze blueberries for a summer treat.
• Emergency Prep:
• Save the vet ER number in your phone.
• Learn pet CPR (yes, it’s a thing!).

FAQs: Keeping Your Golden Happy

Q: Why does my Golden Retriever follow me everywhere?
A: They’re bred to be Velcro dogs! It’s love, not neediness.

Q: How do I stop my Golden from jumping when excited?
A: Turn away + reward only when all paws are on the floor.

Q: Do Goldens get depressed?
A: Yes—signs include lethargy and loss of appetite. Consult a vet.

Print: To track your progress!

A happy Golden Retriever = a home filled with wagging tails and wet-nosed kisses! 🐶💛

Share your #HappyGolden moments with us below!