Originally posted by GoldenRetrLuver
How much time can you devote to exercising a dog? Goldens are not dogs you can keep locked up in a yard all day. They need physical activity whether that's going on walks each day, playing a few rounds of fetch, training, etc. I play fetch with Daisy for 30-45 minutes each day, and we usually train everyday as well. Remember, a tired Golden is a happy Golden!

Exercise is more important than the grooming in my opinion. While most Goldens do prefer to go for a walk, a good healthy run is better. Especially when they are between the ages of 8 weeks through 4 or 5 years. After they hit the age of 5 they kind of mellow more and don't require the long exercise periods. If you don't have a minimum of 1 to 2 hours a day to devote to exercise, training or playing, then a Golden may not be the right breed for you.

You need to be aware that Goldens vary in their need for exercise. Dusty is very high energy and require a 45 minute frisbee session each morning and each night. Dixie wasn't so high energy and I could get away with a little less when she was younger. A bored dog is a dog who will find it's own avenue for amusement and it will usually be destructive. Plan on regular obedience classes starting after the pup has all it's shots and then continuing on through adulthood for the best relationship possible with your pup.