Golden Retrievers are one of America’s most popular dog breeds, and their temperament is a big reason why. This breed has a well-worn reputation for being intelligent, friendly, and gentle, and English Cream Goldens are no exception.
Their gentle personality makes golden retrievers good family pets — they’re good best friends for younger children and they usually get along well with other animals. Always watch small children with any dog, as even the gentlest ones can tire of toddlers who don’t know how to play nice.
English Cream Golden Retrievers are not only family-friendly, but they also often make great first impressions with strangers. The breed in general is known for being welcoming towards strangers and guests.
English Cream Golden Retrievers are generally healthy but can be prone to various conditions. These issues range from benign skin issues to life-threatening conditions. Understanding potential problems can help you get the best, most prompt care for your furry family member.
Hip dysplasia (Trusted Source) may require surgery that could cost more than $4,000 per side, depending on a dog’s size and the severity of the condition. Cancer treatment can also cost more than $1,000.
Pet insurance can offset out-of-pocket expenses. Dog owners who invest in a plan early in their pet’s life will enjoy more benefits. A pet savings account is another financially responsible option for dog owners of all types.
The name “English Cream Golden Retriever” is a bit of a misnomer. Golden retrievers originated in the Scottish Highlands in the late 1800s. Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth, cross-bred a wavy-coated retriever named Nous with a Tweed water spaniel, a now-extinct breed, named Belle. Subsequent litters also included combinations of wavy and flat-coated retrievers, another Tweed water spaniel, and a red setter.
The breed was first recognized as “Retriever-Yellow or Golden” by The Kennel Club in 1911 and became known as Retriever-Golden in 1920. The Canadian Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1925, and their American counterparts at AKC did the same in 1932, settling on the name golden retriever.
Dogs of this breed have held down various jobs over the years. Their intelligence and ability to track game (or prey) have long made them good hunting companions and gun dogs. They’ve also been employed as guide dogs, show dogs, and search and rescue animals. Famous American Goldens with lighter coats include Buddy, who played Comet on Full House. Ray Charles, a blind golden retriever, had an English cream coat and became an internet sensation.
Though English Cream Golden Retrievers s are gentle and loving, caring for any puppy can initially be a bit overwhelming. There are several items on your to-do list — attending your pup’s first trip to the vet and vaccinations among them. You’ll also need to keep your pet safe and comfortable by puppy-proofing and preparing for teething. Learning some other essentials will help you provide the best care for your English Cream Golden Retriever.
Golden retrievers require up to two hours of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. If you don’t have a securely fenced-in yard where your pet can run around, take them on daily walks or to a dog park. Doggie daycares and dog walkers can step in if you’re gone during the day.
English Cream Golden Retrievers often love active families. They make for good hiking and swimming buddies and are usually up for a game of fetch with a tennis ball or Frisbee.
Goldens are famous for being playful and affectionate, and they crave the love and approval of their owners. They typically prefer to be in a family that can give them the regular physical and mental stimulation they need.
White golden retrievers, as well as their darker-coated counterparts, have dense, water-repellent coats that are not too coarse or wavy. They don’t require much grooming, but a few basics will keep your pet looking and feeling sharp.
Healthy English Cream Golden Retrievers within the ideal weight range for their gender thrive on high-quality food with the Association of American Feed Control Officials (Trusted Source) (AAFCO) seal. These retrievers are eager to please and adorable, but you must resist the urge to over-treat them.
Treats should be 10% or less of your English Cream Golden Retriever’s daily caloric intake, including treats while training. Consider opting for low-calorie treats when training your English cream golden.
These retrievers should eat twice daily. Generally, a 65-pound spayed or neutered dog needs 1,418 calories (Trusted Source) per day. Your vet can give the best advice on portions. If your best friend develops a condition such as obesity, your vet will advise on food types and portions.
Golden retrievers have been employed by law enforcement, rescue teams, and guide dog associations for a reason. They’re highly intelligent and eager to please. These characteristics generally make the breed one of the easier ones to train. Training from a young age can help your English Cream Golden Retriever be the best dog they can be.
The ASPCA (Trusted Source) recommends positive training that teaches a dog kindness and respect. The Humane Society makes similar recommendations. Rewards (Trusted Source), such as treats and toys, are more effective than scolding or punishment. Remain consistent, and keep commands short. Think of one-word commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”
Not quite sure that an English Cream Golden Retriever is right for you? Even if you are, it’s worth taking the time to research and consider other similar breeds. Here are a few to get you started:
English Cream Golden Retrievers are not considered rare dogs. This myth is a marketing tactic. Golden retrievers come in many colors, and puppies of the same litter may have different shaded coats.
There is no difference between an English Cream Golden Retriever and a Golden Retriever. English Creams are simply Golden Retrievers with light-colored fur.
The cost depends on where you find your cream-colored Golden Retriever. Rescues or shelters may only ask for a donation, while a reputable breeder may charge $1,500 or more.
