Golden Retriever Behavior Article

How to Choose the Right Bedding for Your Golden Retriever

When you decide to add a Golden Retriever into your home, as well as any new pet, you have to make certain that you have the things that he will need, and it is best if you do this before you bring the pet into your home for the first time. If you plan to crate train, you will need a crate, as well as food, bowls for food and water, toys, treats, etc. One thing that many people often overlook, however, is a nice, comfortable bed. If you really want your Golden to feel at home, he should have a place of his own, including his own bed.

Keep in mind when you are purchasing bedding for your Golden, that they love to chew, on virtually everything, so that whatever you buy, you will likely have to replace at some point in the near future, especially if your Golden is still a puppy. You want to choose bedding that is made of a durable material, wool seems to work well, as it is pretty tough, provides adequate heat, and can absorb moisture, in case your Golden should have an accident. There are many different types of puppy beds for sale in your local pet supply store, but in many cases, these are quite expensive. You can save money by using an old blanket, either one that you may already have at home, or one that you can purchase from your local thrift or Goodwill store. Just remember to wash it before allowing your Golden to use it.

If your new Golden is still a puppy, don’t be surprised if he isn’t a little homesick at first. After all, he is being taken from his mom and his siblings, and brought into this new, strange home, with people he doesn’t know. To ease some of this homesickness, try placing a fluffy towel in the dryer for a couple of minutes, just so it is toasty, and putting it in the bed or crate with your puppy. This often makes him feel more at ease until he has time to warm up to his new environment.

Of course, if you are one of those people who believe that your new Golden should be allowed to become your new bed buddy, you should make certain that you get up several times through the night so that you can take him outside, unless you want to wake up in a messy bed.

When you place your Golden’s bed or crate, make certain that he can easily get to food and water nearby. You don’t want him having to roam all over the house when he is thirsty or hungry. Once he does eat, make certain that you take him out about an hour later, so that he can go to the bathroom. Getting in this habit can help prevent accidents, and get your Golden used to going outside when he feels the urge.

Of course, you will require different bedding materials if your new Golden will be staying outside. You should provide him with a nice doghouse, with some straw and a blanket for bedding. You want to make certain that he is protected from the elements, and that he stays as warm as possible, which is why the house and bedding are so important.

Whatever material you decide to use for your Golden’s bedding, should be safe and provide comfort. You don’t have to rob a bank to get the most expensive bed that you can find; he will be just as happy with some newspaper or an old blanket as he would a designer dog bed!