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Breeding and Raising Golden Retrievers:

A Life-Consuming Passion

By Sherry Rainer, Rainershine Goldens

 

 

Breeding and raising Golden Retrievers is far more than a job- it’s a way of life. For Jay and me, it’s not a typical 9-to-5 commitment but a 24/7 endeavor, requiring constant attention, dedication and love. From the moment the puppies are born, our schedule revolves around their well-being, and this journey- while incredibly rewarding- comes with its fair share of challenges.

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One of the most demanding aspects is the sleepless nights. Newborn puppies need round-the-clock care, and for the first few weeks, we find ourselves awake at all hours, ensuring that each pup is healthy, fed and thriving. It’s exhausting, both physically and emotionally. Watching a litter grow is an emotional rollercoaster, full of moments of joy, anxiety and pride. Each puppy is unique, and their development requires careful monitoring and individualized care.

 

The emotional investment doesn’t stop there. As these puppies begin to open their eyes, find their legs and start exploring their world, we invest our time and energy into socializing and nurturing them. This period, from birth to eight weeks, is critical in shaping their temperament and health. Every interaction, from playtime to handling, helps set them up for a life of happiness and adaptability.

 

Of course, it’s not always smooth sailing. There are moments of stress, such as managing health concerns and ensuring that each puppy is developing properly. It’s a constant juggle of making sure they get the right nutrition, monitoring their growth and preparing them for the transition to their forever homes. But despite the challenges, there is nothing more gratifying than watching these Golden Retrievers leave our care and enter the loving arms of their new families.

 

Seeing the joy these puppies bring to others is worth every moment of hard work. Knowing that the effort we put into raising them will provide their new families with years of companionship is what makes the sleepless nights and emotional highs and lows completely worth it. For Jay and me, raising Golden Retrievers is a passion that consumes our lives- and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

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