Golden Labrador Shedding
Should I choose a labrador retriever, or a golden retriever?
We don’t care about shedding/brushing, we have a long-haired cat that we already get to take care of on that account so we’re used to it.
Anyways, we have a large, fenced-off backyard, someone home at almost all times, and are a very active family. The one thing is that they can’t go crazy around cats, since we have 3. So, what are the upsides and downsides of both?
My opinion is that both breeds are essentially the same. The garbage about dogs getting fat, bad hips, barking etc is a result of bad breeding or bad owners or lack of training, not bad dogs.
They are both great family dogs.
More important than the breed of dog is the dog itself.
You want to work with a breeder or rescue that understands your needs as a family. You want the right DOG, not the right package (color, hair length).
Work with a breeder or rescue that is going to talk to you about your lifestyle. You are active. Do you have time to do training? House training? Do you need someone that’s good with kids? Is your neighborhood dog friendly? How active? That’s a scale that you need to discuss. Low activity to some people is High activity to others. The cats are an issue, but an easy one for the right dog or pup.
You can get a 6 month old dog from a rescue that has been surrendered because someone was moving. The dog has been house broken, crated trained, loves cats, other dogs etc. I know of dozens… It happens every day. It’s not the dog’s fault. The dog/pup is fine. The people were idiots.
Find a good breeder that talks to you. Or find a good rescue for either breed that will work with you. Either breed will work. They are great dogs. You just have to put in the time to make him or her fit into your family.
Good luck and have fun!