The Decision
We finally decided as a family last night that we are getting a dog!
Our dog of choice: A Golden Retriever!
My kids spent most of the summer with my in-laws’ Golden Retriever and have been wanting one of their own for several years.
For years, my husband has complained about the hair all over.
He would always say how much he loves Goldens but can’t handle the hair and he would never want one.
I tried to convince the kids to get a low-shedding dog. I thought about Westies. I thought about Wheaten Terriers.
But for some reason it never felt right.
Then last night, my 7 year old spent over an hour next door at the neighbor’s playing with their black lab.
A big dog can be so much fun for boys.
I kept thinking how good he is with his grandparent’s Golden.
And how lucky my husband and I were to grow up with pets.
My husband and I looked at each other and for the first time, HE said, “The kid needs his own dog!”
Then last night he told me that if we are going to get any dog, he wants a Golden Retriever!
The funny thing was – that was exactly what I was thinking!
And then we told the kids!
So now that I have reached the point of no return, I spent the morning doing research online and emailing friends about potential breeders.
I am happy and terrified at the same time!
My house stays so clean now that the boys are a little older.
I don’t want hair all over or nose prints on my patio doors.
But I do feel it is time.
I will let you know how things go.
In the meantime, do you have any Golden Retriever info you would like to share?
Or better yet:
Do you know a good breeder in the New York/New Jersey/Pennsylvania area?
Thanks and have a great weekend!
Congratulations! Can't wait to see him/her!Debbie
That's really exciting news- you all must be so excited! I have a Cavalier King Charles spaniel and even though he sheds a lot and leaves scratches on the hardwood, I wouldn't trade him for anything. People warned us that pets are hard on the house, but I didn't want my kids to grow up and say 'oh, we had hardwood floors so my parents didn't let us get a dog'! I think having him has forced me to be a little more chill about the state of the house!I have been researching Goldens and Labrador Retrievers because I'm (not my husband ;)) thinking about getting a second dog. Goldens are so lovely- I'm loving the British Cream colored ones. I do have a tip that will help with the shedding, though. We have a special comb called a 'Furminator' and use it every other month on my dog, and I have noticed a big reduction in dog hair in the house.I can't wait to see how your search goes!
Ah, the "Furminator"! My neighbor told me about that too so I must get one!
I've always loved Golden Retrievers because of their sweet dispositions. We have an Airedale Terrier and a Welsh Terrier, and neither of them shed. Our Airedale terrier is truly special. It sounds crazy, but sometimes I forget that he is even a dog! My Welsh drives me a bit crazy, as she is a terrier who loves to hunt things like possums and skunks! Good luck with your search! I can hardly wait to see your new little puppy! 🙂
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I have two golden retrievers. They are the best dogs!! Good luck.
Goldens are the most adorable dogs — the most beautiful puppies and adult dogs. You just want to hug them. Of course, they have wonderful personalities! You can't go wrong with Goldens!I just want to hug that picture of that little Golden puppy!
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