Is a Golden Shepherd the right dog for your golden years?

Whether you are a kid, an adult, or senior thinking about getting a dog that combines being a watchdog with also being friendly and gentle, then a Golden Shepherd might be the right breed for you.

The Golden Shepherd is a cross-breed obtained by breeding a Golden Retriever and a German Shepherd. The breed combines the qualities of a social and friendly golden retriever with a loyal German Shepherd. Loyalty is the most attractive trait of this breed.

Basic characteristics

The Golden Shepherd, like its parent breeds, tends to be a larger dog. Expect your Golden Shepherd to stand about 20 to 25 inches tall and weigh 60 to 75 pounds.

The dogs typically live about 10 to 14 years.

Crossbreeds are known to be healthier as compared to their parent breed. However, it is important to do a thorough check-up of the parents before breeding.

Some of the most common health issues with this breed are joint issues, bloating or other digestive issues, and Von Willebrand’s disease, a blood-clotting disorder.

Chances are good, however, your dog Golden Shepherd may never develop any of these conditions.

Why choose a Golden Shepherd?

The most successful pet-people partnerships happen when you choose a dog that best suits your lifestyle. For example, families with children, prefer a dog that is friendly, gentle, active, and energetic.

On the other hand, senior or elderly people look for a pet who is loyal, can become their companion, and help keep them safe and secure.

All these characteristics can be found in the Golden Shepherd, which makes the breed an appealing option for even a novice pet owner.

Because the dogs get along well wth humans, they make a good choice for a pet-friendly retirement community.

Benefits for seniors

If you are in your golden age and looking for a pet, then a Golden Shepherd is worth your consideration. Here are a few advantages of becoming an owner of this wonderful designer breed.

Encourages daily exercise 

Regular exercise is essential to stay fit and healthy in old age. Sometimes, leaving the comfort of the home and going for a walk requires motivation. Golden Shepherd can be a good motivation factor. Just like German Shepherd, this breed is highly energetic and active. It needs regular exercise. And as a dog owner, it becomes your duty to look after your dog’s health. Hence, if not for your own sake, you will have to go on a regular walk for your dog.

 Helps fight depression

One of the most common mental health issues faced by people in their senior age is depression. Many live alone and feel disconnected from family.

Having a dog provides companionship and can help relieve stress and anxiety. 

Senior living centers recognize that dogs have such a positive effect on the lives of senior citizens and many dog-friendly assisted living facilities may allow retirees to move in with their Golden Shepherd dog.

Promotes physical and mental  health

Regular exercise from dog walks helps prevent conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease.

One of the most desirable characteristics of combining a German Shepherd and Golden Retriever is their loyalty, love for the owner, and friendly nature. Dogs make wonderful companions. You can talk to them, feed them, take them on a walk, and play with them. Dogs love unconditionally.

Creates a better social life

In case you live alone, a dog can improve your social life. When you take your dog on a walk, it gives you a reason to talk to other pet owners. A dog lover automatically attracts other dog lovers.

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Golden Shepherd care

One of the major concerns of a dog owner is its maintenance. So, if you are looking for a maintenance-free dog, then this breedmight not be the best choice. Just like Golden retrievers, they do shed and need to be brushed at least once in a day. 

As far as bathing is concerned, they don’t need to be bathed regularly, it needs to be done only when required. The dogs do require regular ear cleaning and daily teeth brushing

Training needs

Golden Shepherds tend to be easy to train because they have both the intelligence of a German Shepherd and the people-pleasing desire of the Golden Retriever. 

The dogs learn quickly and respond well to simple, direct commands. Because they are large dogs, start training early. 

Getting a Golden Shepherd

Because of their increasing popularity, this breed can be easily obtained from either specific breeders or pet shelters. Before working with a breeder, be sure to check references and ask for the health records of the parents. It’s also a good idea to meet the parents because that will give you a better idea of what their puppies will be like. 

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