Q&A for How to Groom a Golden Retriever

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  • Question
    Is cleaning golden retriever daily with shampoo is necessary?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    No, in fact this is not recommended at all as it will strip the natural protective oils out of the coat. However, brushing and combing is best done as often as possible, such as each day. Not only does this remove tangles, but it conditions the hair by spreading those natural oils, and it improves the blood supply to the skin which makes for a strong, healthy coat.
  • Question
    How often can a golden retriever be bathed?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Most people agree that once a month, if using a gentle shampoo, should not strip the natural oils from the dog's coat. However, if the dog has a skin condition and the vet recommends a medicated shampoo, this is part of the treatment, and bathing every three days can be considered normal.
  • Question
    Do I need conditioner for my dog's coat?
    Community Answer
    You don't need it, but if you want your dog's coat extra soft and shiny, go for a dog conditioner, as regular conditioner could harm the skin.
  • Question
    How can I improve my golden retriever's dull coat?
    Community Answer
    Oatmeal shampoo usually does the trick, and if that doesn't work, find a shampoo that says ''shiny'' on the label.
  • Question
    How do I make my dog stand still?
    Community Answer
    Try getting someone to help you. You could use treats to get her to stand still, but depending on the dog, that might just excite her. Your best bet is to have someone else hold a short leash (about 2 feet) while you groom her. If she is scared of the brushes/scissors or thinks they are toys, try training her to accept them without fully grooming her. What has worked best for me is brushing as well as I can and rewarding when the dog stands still; the dog will eventually stand still for grooming.
  • Question
    Do I need a specific brush?
    Community Answer
    No, you don't! You can use a horse brush or a dog brush with the medal bristles. If you are cutting his fur, the brush with metal bristles is best!
  • Question
    I want to make my golden retriever puppy sleep upstairs, but I am afraid he will slip and fall down between the gaps in the staircase rails. Is it okay to make him sleep there?
    Community Answer
    The best thing for your dog is to sleep in a crate, especially if it is a puppy. You don't want him to be able to roam around at night when you cant be watching him. Keep him in his crate at night until he's between 2 and 3 years old.
  • Question
    If he has been clipped very short everywhere, will his coat still grow back?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it will. However, it will won't be like his original coat, it'll more likely be more dense and not as smooth as before.
  • Question
    My golden's nails are chipping, what might be the cause?
    M.ranajit
    Community Answer
    This could be lupoid onychodystrophy. It's a disease that causes by your dog's immune system to start attacking his nail beds. Take him to the vet for an examination.
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