Full Description
Get the most out of this Golden breed
Man's best friend doesn't get any better than the Golden Retriever. Originally bred as hunting companions who retrieved birds and hares and delivered them to hand, the breed today is much more than "just a hunting dog." Highly intelligent and eager-to-please, Golden Retrievers have a history as working dogs that makes them easy to train. Attired in a luxurious fur coat and blessed with a gentle and affectionate nature, they are the third most popular breed in the United States and a favorite for families with young children.
Written in a friendly style by Retriever-owner Nona Kilgore Bauer, the 2nd edition of Golden Retrievers For Dummies puts everything you need to know about your furry friend right in your hand. You'll learn how to care for a Golden Retriever from puppyhood to its stately golden years and how to communicate with them better. You'll also learn about grooming and training, as well as how to deal with common ailments and behaviors.
Select the best puppy for you
Adopt an older dog
Dog-proof your home
Train your Golden Retriever right
Whatever you're looking for from your Golden Retriever, this book will help you get there, making for happiness all around—and many golden years ahead!
Contents
Introduction 1
Part 1: Finding Your Soul Mate 5
Chapter 1: Are You Meant for Each Other? 7
Chapter 2: What to Look for in the Breed 17
Chapter 3: Finding a Golden Breeder 27
Chapter 4: Selecting Your Special Puppy 43
Part 2: Welcome Home! 53
Chapter 5: Setting Out the Welcome Mat 55
Chapter 6: Welcoming Your Puppy Home 67
Chapter 7: Crate Training and Housetraining 81
Chapter 8: Canine Communication and Growing Pains 91
Chapter 9: Homeschooling Your Golden Puppy 107
Part 3: Keeping Your Pal Healthy and Happy 123
Chapter 10: Healthy Habits: Nutrition and Exercise 125
Chapter 11: Golden Health Care 101 139
Chapter 12: The Ins and Outs of Bugs and Worms 165
Chapter 13: Golden Grooming Basics 179
Chapter 14: Caring for Your Senior Golden 189
Chapter 15: Hereditary Disease 199
Chapter 16: Problem Behaviors and Aggression 207
Part 4: The Part of Tens 227
Chapter 17: Ten Great Games to Play with Your Puppy 229
Chapter 18: Ten Websites for the Golden Retriever Believer 235
Chapter 19: Ten Things in Your Golden Retriever's Bag of Tricks 239
Chapter 20: Ten Ways to Help Your Golden Live a Longer and More Golden Life 251
Index 257
