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!
