Hi Jenny,
Unfortunately I am not an expert when it comes to dog grooming…all my dogs have short coats! Any advice I give in relation to grooming is only on a very basic level and so I would actually recommend having a chat to a dog groomer in your area to seek some more knowledgeable advice. I’m sorry I couldn’t be more helpful but I don’t want to give you any advice that may be incorrect! Best, Doggy Dan

thanks for such a helpful post. I know you said that you don’t need o cut your dogs hair off to keep them cool, but this other post that recommended you guys said it works.

I’m also noticing that my dog seems to recently have caught fleas and wanted to know if shaving her would be a good idea.

I know you’re a busy man but would appreciate if you could help me out and let me know whether the clippers they recommend here: https://www.retrieversareus.com/best-dog-clippers-for-thick-coats/ are any good from your experience with golden retrievers.

Thanks in advance

Hi Kathlyn,
Doing some off-leash training and using some treats can also be a great way to show your puppy that sticking by your side is a good thing. You would use your voice more here, and maybe a gentle tap on your thigh to encourage them to come with you. As your puppy approaches the heel position you can say the word ‘heel’ and when they hit the right spot say the word again, give them a treat and praise them.
When doing on-leash work try either stopping or changing direction as soon as your puppy gets past the heel position and is in front of you. If you choose to stop then you can guide your puppy back to your side by calling them and maybe a treat also. Changing direction and calling them to come with you as you do, helps them understand that being in front of you results in a change in direction and will prompt them to be more aware of where you are and sticking closer to you. For young puppies remember to keep training sessions short and positive as well!
My website TheOnlineDogTrainer.com has instructional videos to help achieve this…maybe take a quick look…its a $1 trial for 3 days…all the best Doggy Dan

Thanks Carole, I love sharing all the info I can to help dog owners, so I’m glad you found this Blog helpful…best, Doggy Dan

Hi Helen….when I refer to ‘shaving’ a dog I simply mean to clipper or trim their hair to a very short length, almost right to the skin so that only a very short length of hair remains…so not totally bald back to the skin only. Hope that clears thing up…best, Doggy Dan

Mark M