Golden Retrievers are some of the most loving, loyal, and gentle dogs on the planet. Their enthusiasm for life is infectious, and they truly want nothing more than to spend every moment by your side. But even the most dedicated owners can accidentally make mistakes that negatively affect their furry best friends. From seemingly harmless habits to overlooked health risks, you might be unintentionally breaking your Golden’s heart. Here are 17 ways you might be hurting your Golden Retriever – without even knowing it.
1. Overfeeding Them With Love (And Treats)
It’s hard to resist those pleading puppy dog eyes, but too much food is not a sign of love – it’s a health risk. Golden Retrievers are prone to weight gain, which can lead to joint problems, heart disease, and reduced mobility. A few extra treats here and there might not seem like a big deal, but they add up quickly. Stick to a balanced diet and controlled portions to keep your pup healthy and happy.
2. Letting Them Stick Their Head Out the Car Window
Golden Retrievers love car rides, and nothing excites them more than sticking their head out to feel the wind. But this can be dangerous. Debris, rocks, and insects can hit their face or eyes, leading to painful injuries. Worse yet, some dogs have been known to jump out of moving vehicles. Keep your Golden secure in the car with a dog seatbelt or crate to prevent accidents.
3. Ignoring Their Need for a Routine
Golden Retrievers thrive on structure and consistency. If they don’t know when they’ll eat, go for walks, or have playtime, they may become anxious. A predictable routine helps them feel safe and secure, so try to keep meal times, potty breaks, and exercise schedules consistent.
4. Giving Them the Wrong Toys
Not all dog toys are created equal. Soft plush toys may seem harmless, but Goldens can rip them apart and accidentally swallow stuffing or squeakers, leading to choking hazards. Similarly, cooked bones can splinter and damage their digestive system. Always choose sturdy, safe toys made specifically for tough chewers.
5. Using the Wrong Type of Harness
Harnesses are great for preventing neck injuries, but some types actually restrict natural movement and can lead to joint problems. If your Golden wears a harness that goes across their front legs, it could alter their gait over time. Choose a harness that fits between their front legs instead.
6. Not Giving Them Enough Exercise
Golden Retrievers are high-energy dogs, and without enough physical and mental stimulation, they can develop destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, and excessive barking. A bored Golden is a mischievous Golden! Daily walks, play sessions, and training exercises are essential to keep them happy and well-behaved.
7. Leaving Them Alone Too Long
Goldens are incredibly social dogs, and being left alone for extended periods can lead to severe separation anxiety. If you’re away for long hours, try arranging for a pet sitter, dog walker, or even doggy daycare. Whenever possible, include your pup in your daily activities – they live to be by your side.
8. Bathing Them Too Often
Golden Retrievers have a naturally water-resistant coat that helps regulate their body temperature and protect their skin. Bathing them too frequently can strip away essential oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and an unhealthy coat. Unless they roll in something particularly nasty, bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is usually enough. If they start smelling a little too “doggy” between baths, a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or dog-friendly wipes can help freshen them up without damaging their coat.
9. Not Rinsing Out Shampoo Properly
Because Golden Retrievers have a thick, double-layered coat, shampoo can easily get trapped in their fur, leading to skin irritation, itchiness, and discomfort. Even if you think you’ve rinsed thoroughly, it’s a good idea to rinse them again to be sure. Leftover shampoo can cause dandruff, allergies, or even infections, so taking the extra time to wash it all out is essential. Using a detachable shower head or a bucket of clean water to rinse thoroughly can make a big difference.
10. Failing to Dry Them Completely
Goldens are known for their beautiful, fluffy fur, but that same coat can trap moisture, leading to hot spots, bacterial infections, and skin irritation. If they stay damp for too long, these issues can become painful and difficult to treat. After bath time or a swim, use a towel to absorb excess moisture and follow up with a pet-safe blow dryer on a low-heat setting. Pay special attention to their belly, underarms, and behind their ears, as these are the most common areas where moisture gets trapped.
11. Neglecting Regular Brushing
Golden Retrievers shed a lot, and if you don’t brush them regularly, their fur can quickly become matted, tangled, and uncomfortable. Matted fur pulls on their skin, causing irritation, pain, and even infections in severe cases. Regular brushing removes loose fur, distributes natural oils, and helps prevent shedding from taking over your home. A good-quality slicker brush or de-shedding tool used at least 3-4 times a week will keep their coat in top shape and strengthen your bond with your pup.
12. Forgetting to Trim Their Nails
Overgrown nails can change the way your dog walks, causing pain, joint issues, and even long-term posture problems. If their nails get too long, they can snag on carpets, break, or even grow into their paw pads, which is painful and may require veterinary attention. Regular nail trims help prevent these issues and keep your Golden comfortable. If you’re nervous about clipping their nails, a groomer or vet can do it for you, or you can use a dog nail grinder for a safer, smoother trim.
13. Neglecting Their Ears
Golden Retrievers have floppy ears that trap heat, moisture, and dirt, making them prone to ear infections. If their ears aren’t cleaned regularly, bacteria and yeast can build up, leading to painful infections that may require medication. You should check their ears weekly and clean them at least once or twice a month using a vet-approved ear cleaner. After swimming or bathing, always dry their ears thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of infections.
14. Skipping Dental Care
Dental health is often overlooked in dogs, but poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, infections, and even heart and kidney problems. Golden Retrievers are prone to plaque buildup, which can cause bad breath, pain, and tooth loss if not managed properly. Brushing their teeth two to three times a week with dog-friendly toothpaste helps keep their mouth healthy. If brushing isn’t an option, dental chews, rope toys, and vet-approved water additives can also help keep their teeth clean.
15. Yelling at Them
Golden Retrievers are sensitive, people-pleasing dogs, and yelling at them can cause stress, anxiety, and confusion. Unlike humans, dogs don’t always understand why they’re being scolded, and yelling can damage their trust in you. Instead of punishment, use positive reinforcement to guide their behavior—reward good actions and redirect bad ones. A calm, firm voice combined with consistency and patience is far more effective in teaching them right from wrong.
16. Not Socializing Them Enough
Goldens are naturally friendly and outgoing, but without proper socialization, they can develop fear, anxiety, or even aggression. Exposing them to new people, pets, sounds, and environments early in life helps them grow into confident, well-adjusted dogs. Without regular social interactions, they may become overly cautious or even scared of everyday situations. Frequent walks, visits to dog-friendly places, and puppy playdates can help your Golden feel comfortable in any setting.
17. Not Keeping Up With Vet Visits
Routine vet checkups aren’t just for vaccinations – they help catch potential health issues before they become serious problems. Golden Retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, heart disease, cancer, and allergies, so early detection is key to ensuring a long, healthy life. Skipping vet visits can mean missing important signs of illness, leading to unnecessary suffering for your pup. A yearly checkup (or biannual for senior dogs) helps keep them in top shape and gives you peace of mind.
Love Them Right—Because They Deserve It
Golden Retrievers give us their whole hearts, and they deserve the same in return. Even small changes – like feeding them properly, giving them the right toys, or making time for daily exercise – can make a huge difference in their health and happiness. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll strengthen your bond with your furry best friend and give them the best life possible. So, which of these habits will you change to make your Golden Retriever’s life even better?
Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.